The Case for Ambidextrous Firearms Skills

The Case for Ambidextrous Firearms Skills

By Jeff Young

Why Train with Your Non-Dominant Hand?

Many firearms instructors incorporate non-dominant hand shooting into their training, and for good reason. Real-world data shows that hands and forearms are frequently injured in gunfights. Take the 1986 FBI Miami shootout as a stark example: out of nine participants (two suspects and seven FBI agents), five were struck in the hand or forearm. That’s over half the people involved. If your dominant hand is incapacitated, the ability to shoot proficiently with your non-dominant hand could be a lifesaver.

But it’s not just about shooting. Drawing from a holster on your non-dominant side, reloading, and clearing malfunctions with your support hand are equally critical skills. Here are two compelling reasons why:

1. Understanding Left-Handed Challenges
About 15% of people are left-handed, yet most firearms instructors are right-handed, and most handguns are designed with right-handed users in mind. Operating a firearm with the non-dominant hand gives instructors firsthand insight into the challenges their left-handed students face. From adjusting grip to manipulating controls under stress, these nuances require specific techniques. By mastering ambidextrous skills, instructors can better teach left-handed shooters how to adapt and excel.

2. Adapting to Life’s Unexpected Challenges
Injuries happen—whether from an accident, surgery, or a sprain.

Be Prepared: Invest in Ambidextrous Gear and Training

Whether you’re facing an injury now or not, I strongly recommend investing in a holster for your non-dominant side. If you break your arm, sprain your wrist, or undergo surgery, you’ll already have the equipment to stay armed and capable. Once you have the holster, commit to practicing with it.

Here’s how to get started:

• Dry Fire Practice: Work on your draw, presentation, and manipulations to build muscle memory and speed.

• Live Fire Training: Incorporate shooting, reloading, and malfunction drills with your non-dominant hand to ensure proficiency under realistic conditions.

By developing ambidextrous skills and having the right gear, you’ll be prepared for whatever challenges come your way. One day, you might be grateful you took the time to train both sides.

Stay ready, stay safe.
Lone Pine Tactical