The basic pistol stance is similar to that of a boxer. If you are right-handed, place both hands on the pistol and align your hips at a 45-degree angle in relation to the target. Your left leg is forward towards the target and your right leg is to the back. Your legs should be placed at a comfortable distance from each other – roughly 12 to 16 inches apart – forming a triangle. You should have equal weight distribution on both legs creating a comfortable standing position. Your upper body should be parallel or square to the target with your head up and shoulders slightly forward of your body. Your nose should be located directly over your toes on your left foot.

For left-handed shooters, the stance is reverse of the right-handed shooter.