The Isosceles Stance offers several advantages: it is a simple, easy-to-learn, two-handed technique that feels natural for many shooters. The shooter firmly grips the pistol with their dominant hand while their support hand wraps around the dominant hand to further support the gun. The arms are held straight with locked elbows creating the shape of an isosceles triangle. This stance provides great stability from left to right but potentially leaves a good deal of instability from front to back.

It is a very traditional stance with the shooter’s feet shoulders-width apart and evenly aligned, placing the user’s body square with the target. The Isosceles Stance is generally a good stance for beginners because it is a simple stance and easy to assume. A proper shooting stance can mean the difference between hits and misses on target. The only thing that is certain is that knowing all five I cover here will provide a distinct advantage to you.Įditor’s Note: Be sure to check out Massad Ayoob’s take on the best shooting stance. Some are more appropriate for recreational use while others are better suited for combat marksmanship. Many are two-handed pistol stances (Isosceles, Chapman, Weaver) and others are single-handed pistol stances (Power Point and Strong-Hand Resistance).

There are stances that are more advanced and others more suited for a beginner. One stance may be easier to get into while another makes it easier and quicker to change stances. There is no “one-size-fits-all” pistol stance, and each offers its own advantages and disadvantages.

Isosceles stance