As we've been discussing on our blog, there are many ways to improve your shooting skills, from practice to focusing on your stance. Another way to improve your shooting skills is to focus on improving your grip strength.
RailScales understands the importance of grip strength. We manufacture the best rail covers and grips for your AR-15 as well as for your 1911. These best grips are textured, so your grip won't slip. In addition, they are super lightweight and thin, so you'll barely know they are there. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, and they have great hardware so the panels won't slide or shift while shooting. Below, we'll take a look at some tips to help you improve your shooting grip strength. Learn more about our MLOK rail grips and shop our online rail covers today!
TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SHOOTING GRIP STRENGTH
To improve shooting grip strength, incorporate hand grip exercises like squeezing stress balls and using grip strengtheners, along with finger extension exercises using rubber bands. Utilize hand grippers of varying resistance levels, engage in towel hangs and dead hangs to strengthen grip and forearm muscles, and incorporate wrist roller exercises for wrist strength. Additionally, consider rock climbing and functional activities that challenge grip strength in real-life situations. Start gradually and prioritize proper form to prevent injury and maximize effectiveness.
Invest in a Grip Strength Trainer
Grip strength trainers have been around a long time. While popular amongst bodybuilders and weightlifters, these small, hand-held devices are perfect for anyone looking to improve grip strength, including shooters. You simply purchase a pair, and every so often, squeeze away. These come in different resistances, so you can play around with the one that works best for you. In general, lighter weighted ones will help improve endurance and grip strength over time. You'll soon notice an increased strength in your fingers and thumb, which is crucial for when you are holding your firearm and pulling the trigger.
Strengthen Your Wrists
You'd be surprised how big of a part your wrist plays in holding, supporting, and firing your gun. Your wrist links your hand to your arm, all of which have to stay steady for accurate shooting. To increase your wrist strength, you can invest in specific wrist strengthening tools similar to the grip strength trainer that you can find online, or you can work on strength training and lifting as well. You can invest in affordable resistance bands, and a set of lighter dumbbells with wrist curls works as well. Even a squeezie that you have at your desk and squeeze every now and then can work wonders.
Strengthen Your Forearms
Strong forearms can help improve your shooting skills, too. You'll be better able to handle recoil, and you'll be better able to hold your gun steady when firing. Again, there are many tools available online, but performing exercises that target the forearms are great, too. Some of these are climbing rope, pull ups, and hanging from a pull up bar. You can use this same pair of light weights that you use to strengthen your wrists to help strengthen your forearms as well. Carrying dumbbells also strengthens your forearms because gravity pulls the weight down, forcing your forearms to bear the weight.
Dry-Fire Frequently
Dry firing your firearm is where you practice firing when your gun has no ammunition. This is a tried-and-true drill that will help you in all aspects of shooting, from improving your accuracy to helping with recoil and helping with grip strength. The longer you hold your firearm, the more you will be using your strength. You can most definitely fire longer with no ammunition. You won't have to stop and reload, clean up your empty shells, or spend money on ammunition. Plus, there is no need to wear ear protection since the only noise will be the sound of the trigger being pulled.
Make It Regular
If you have lifted weights or embarked upon a fitness routine, you know that consistency is the key. If you want to see results, they don't happen overnight. You have to keep moving and improving if you want to make changes to your body. The same goes for grip strength. You have to ensure that your grip strength training is regular and consistent. Going all out for one week and stopping won't result in anything but sore muscles. You have to make grip strength training a regular part of your day. One of the easiest ways to do this is to incorporate grip strength training into an exercise routine that you'll stick to. Then you'll be sure you don't forget, and before you know it, your grip has improved immensely.
FAQs on Improving Shooting Grip Strength
Q: How often should I use a grip strength trainer to see improvements in my shooting grip?
1: Consistency is key to seeing improvements. Aim to use your grip strength trainer several times a week, incorporating it into your regular fitness routine for the best results. Start with sessions of around 5-10 minutes and gradually increase as your endurance improves.
Q: Can strengthening my wrists and forearms really improve my shooting accuracy?
A: Yes, stronger wrists and forearms provide better stability and control of your firearm, which can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy, especially for shots that require sustained aim.
Q: Are there specific exercises recommended for shooters to strengthen their forearms?
A: Exercises that involve gripping and lifting, such as wrist curls, reverse wrist curls, and farmer's walks, are particularly beneficial for shooters. Activities like climbing or pull-ups that naturally engage and strengthen the grip can also be advantageous.
Q: How does dry firing help with grip strength?
A: Dry firing helps with grip strength indirectly by allowing you to practice holding and maneuvering your firearm without the interruption of recoil. This extended handling can build endurance in the muscles involved in shooting.
Q: Is it safe to practice dry firing with my firearm?
A: Yes, dry firing is safe for most modern firearms, but it's always best to consult your firearm's manual or manufacturer to be sure. Consider using snap caps or dry-fire training aids to prevent any potential wear on the firing pin.
RailScales: Elevating Your Grip Strength and Shooting Experience
RailScales leads the industry in providing high-quality, innovative grip solutions for firearms, including the AR-15 and 1911 models. Our products are meticulously designed to not only improve the aesthetics of your firearm but also significantly enhance your grip strength and overall shooting performance.
G10 RailScales
Our flagship product, crafted from durable G10 material, offers unparalleled texture for a no-slip grip, ensuring your hold is secure even in adverse conditions. Lightweight and slim, they integrate seamlessly with your firearm, enhancing control without adding unnecessary bulk. Learn more about our mlok rail covers now.
Textured Grips and Handstops
Beyond rail covers, RailScales offers a variety of grips and handstops, designed to provide strategic grip points on your firearm. These AR-15 accessories aid in improving proprioception, allowing for a quicker, more intuitive handling and positioning of your firearm.
Customization and Color Options
Understanding the importance of personalization, RailScales products come in a variety of colors and textures, allowing shooters to customize their firearms to their unique preferences while gaining functional benefits.
Innovative Designs
RailScales is continuously at the forefront of innovation, developing products that meet the evolving needs of shooters. Our parts have been touted as the best AR-15 accessories in 2023 and the best AR15 accessories in 2024! These AR parts are not only functional but also incorporate designs that enhance the overall look and feel of your firearm.
SHOP OUR WORLD-CLASS RAIL COVERS ONLINE TODAY
RailScales offers the best rail covers, handstops, and other AR-15 accessories online. Our industry-leading rail covers for MLOK and KeyMod rails can't be beat. They offer added grip and heat protection and are super easy to install. Plus, they look good. They can even melt into your firearm if you choose a matching color. If you've ever felt the heat of repeated fire, then you know how important it is to protect your hands. Our rail covers are made from a fiberglass laminate composite material that is one of the toughest available. You can expect a super thin rail cover that is affordable.
RailScales also offers vertical grips that are CNC machined from the finest aluminum and are designed for ergonomic efficiency. You'll love these that fit both MLOK and KeyMod rails and take up hardly any room at all. Check out our fixed iron sights for lasers and more. We offer a generous hassle-free return policy, as well as a great exchange and refund policy. We want you to be 100% satisfied with our products.
If you are looking for some of the best AR-15 accessories in the industry, then shop RailScales online today!