Pro Tips: Choosing an Action Pistol

by
posted on December 5, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
fullsizerender.jpg
Julie Golob—Action Pistol Champion
I prefer firearms that do not have finger grooves since they are just someone else’s idea of a perfect grip. Grip size is critical for me because I have small hands. Easily reached controls are another priority for me. I started on 1911’s so I am partial to that grip angle. Not having to have to carry a full tool box to disassemble a gun is also a perk. I am not a fan of polymer magazines because where the notch sits for magazine release can get buggered and cause issues.

Bruce Piatt—Conventional/Action Pistol Champion
For iron sighted guns, the main things I watch for include: accuracy; trigger weight at or just over legal weight, reach, and feel—either a clean break after a roll or two-stage; consistency; balance—too much weight in the rear tends to cause front end shake; sight radius—the longer the radius with iron sights, the easier to detect sighting errors; sight picture—white outlines and 3-dot combat sights aren’t very practical for competition; and adjustability—must have. Lastly, the grip purchase must give the shooter control during recoil.

Latest

Usa Claytargetleague Sept2026 1
Usa Claytargetleague Sept2026 1

Why More Schools Are Adding a Fall Clay Target Season

The USA Clay Target League opened its fall season with 16,913 student-athletes on 1,163 teams, including 32 schools new to the League.

Remington’s Shoot to Cure Tops $70,000 for Arkansas Kids

Remington’s fifth Shoot to Cure drew 150 shooters and raised nearly $15,000 for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, pushing its five-year total past $70,000.

Océanne Muller Goes Perfect as WVU Opens Bid for Third Straight Title

Océanne Muller's perfect 600 in air rifle and a one-center tiebreak led West Virginia past Mount Aloysius 4737-4587 in the season opener.

Fanizzi Runs Away With His Fifth Diamond Classic Title

Joseph Fanizzi wins fifth Diamond Classic HOA title with a 186 score as Team Beretta shooters collected podium finishes across the program.

Records Fall, Legends Rise: 1997 National Matches

At the 1997 National Matches, Lones Wigger and David Tubb set title marks as Marines claimed back-to-back pistol crowns.

2026-27 NCAA Rifle Preview: Can Anyone Stop West Virginia?

West Virginia opens its bid for a third straight NCAA rifle title as TCU, Ole Miss, Kentucky and Nebraska give chase.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.