It’s something that all of us recognize from TV or the movies. Police enter a building where a crime is expected to be in progress. The policeman has the gun raised with both hands in a firing position. The pistol is parallel to the eyes of the shooter. One hand is ready to shoot, while the other hand is wrapped around the shooting hand. The shooting hand is slightly bent. It’s the shooting style of police, FBI, military and others, and While the shooting position is very familiar to all of us, its beginning is virtually unknown. The Weaver Stance is named for Jack Weaver, a former Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff. Jack was born in 1928 and was drafted into military service where he was trained in firearms.
Following military service, Jack joined the LA County Sheriff’s Department. He became involved in competitive pistol shooting. It was the competitive environment where Jack perfected the stance that became known for him. The Weaver Stance was much more accurate than the hip shooting technique used at the time (think of shootouts in a Western).
The Weaver Stance was publicized in books and magazine articles. The fact that Jack’s shooting team won most of the competitions it entered also helped gain acceptance. Over 20 years later, the Weaver Stance was adopted by the FBI.
When we watch a TV show or movie where guns are drawn, we rarely think about how a particular shooting style became so prevalent. Beginnings often arise from someone who wants to find a better way. Think about how many needless deaths have been prevented by a more accurate shooting stance. If guns must be used, having a better, more accurate approach to targeting is essential.
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“There’s always a better way to do something.” – Rich Piana (Athlete)