Trigger Pull Weight and Accurate Shooting

When I first got a compound bow nearly 20 years ago

When I first got a compound bow nearly 20 years ago, I was both intrigued and frustrated by how I would ever learn to properly pull the 55-pound draw weight (which is the amount of force needed to fully draw the bow). Some archery training (and some weight training) certainly helped, but I’ve seen many new bowhunters struggle with gear that wasn’t set up for them — and sometimes give up altogether.

Just as draw length and draw weight are important considerations for consistent, accurate shots with a compound bow, trigger pull weight is equally important for consistent, accurate shots with a handgun. To help demystify the topic, here are some common questions (and answers) to better understand trigger pull weight.

Let’s start with a definition: What is trigger pull weight, and why should firearm enthusiasts even care about it?

Trigger pull weight is the amount of force or pressure needed to manipulate the trigger properly and make the gun fire. The greater the trigger pull weight (or the higher the number of pounds), the more force is needed to make the weapon fire.

It’s important for any gun user to understand this, since some guns require far more force to fire. If you have weak hands, arthritis, or an injury, this could greatly affect your ability to smoothly and safely press the trigger and properly control the gun.

What impact does trigger pull weight have on shooting accuracy?

I see issues with heavier trigger pulls and accuracy way too often in beginner pistol classes. For example, a student might bring a double-action-only revolver with a very heavy trigger pull — maybe upward of 10–12 pounds — and struggle with it.

The student often inadvertently pulls the gun to one side while pressing the trigger. That extra movement pulls shots off target. It can be very frustrating, and I have even heard instructors tell shooters to use multiple fingers — which is generally not ideal.

How can someone determine a good trigger-pull weight when renting/purchasing a handgun?

If you encounter a firearm with a heavy trigger that you struggle with, consider how that will affect your ability to get defensive, accurate hits on target. Don’t automatically discount a gun after one trial, though.

Many gun owners improve with strength training for their hands and fingers, which helps with grip and trigger press. Conversely, be cautious with guns that have very light triggers — you don’t want to fire before you’re on target and ready.

For example, I used my husband’s competition gun in a match and found myself taking shots earlier than intended because its trigger was lighter than my usual firearm. That experience taught me I prefer a slightly heavier trigger.

Is a lighter trigger-pull weight better? If so, why?

Trigger Pull Weight Comparison Chart

Firearm Type	Typical Trigger Pull Weight	Notes
Competition Pistol	~2–4 lbs	Very light for speed and precision; not recommended for defensive use.
Defensive Handgun	~5–8 lbs	Balanced weight for control, safety, and reliability in self-defense.
Double-Action Revolver	~10–12 lbs	Heavier pull; can challenge new shooters and affect accuracy.

Each gun owner needs to decide the gun’s purpose to determine the best trigger pull. A lighter trigger can be advantageous for competition guns, where quick, accurate shots are needed.

However, a very light, 2-pound trigger is usually not the best choice for a defensive pistol. For self-defense, many gun owners prefer a trigger pull around 5–8 pounds so they remain deliberate and certain before firing.

No matter the trigger-pull weight you choose, it should be something you’ve trained with and are comfortable and proficient using.

If someone is not happy with a firearm because of the trigger-pull weight, what could he or she do about it?

There are several options if you’re not satisfied with a firearm’s trigger pull. First, practice and training can often resolve the issue — you can develop stronger, smoother trigger presses with time and effort.

Second, try other firearms until you find one that fits your needs and abilities better — testing a variety can be informative and fun. Take note of trigger pull when narrowing options.

Third, if trigger-pull weight remains a problem, a knowledgeable gunsmith may be able to modify or change the trigger so it better suits you.