There are two main components of the classic Weaver stance. The first is the position of the feet, which largely resembles a traditional boxing stance. The foot on the shooter’s non-dominant side (or the non-shooting side) is positioned slightly forward of the other foot with the toes pointing toward the target. The shooting side foot is positioned slightly behind the forward foot. The toes of the rear foot may point toward the target or angle out slightly (although the angle should not be more than 45 degrees). Although one foot sets slightly in front of the other, they should be spaced about shoulder width apart. The forward knee should be bent slightly, allowing the front leg to support slightly more weight than the rear. This position allows the shooter’s upper body to lean forward slightly at the hips, with the shoulders moving toward the forward knee until the nose is almost over the toes. The rear knee takes a straighter position, but should not be locked. The shooter should maintain some flex in the rear knee for balance and mobility. The second component of the Weaver stance is the two-handed shooting technique. The shooting hand wraps around the pistol and the support hand wraps around the shooting hand. The shooting side arm is only slightly bent at the elbow, while the support side is noticeably bent with the elbow pointing toward the ground. This position allows the shooter to use “push-pull” isometric tension. In essence, the shooting arm pushes forward while the support arm pulls back simultaneously. This helps provide a stable aiming platform and helps control muzzle rise. The Weaver as a Fighting Stance The lower body position of the Weaver stance is similar to many traditional fighting stances, including boxing and several forms of martial arts. When compared to other common shooting stances, the lower body position of the Weaver really allows it to shine as a fighting platform or combat stance. This stance allows the shooter to do more than pull the trigger. From the classic Weaver stance, you can shoot, throw a punch or kick, move out of the way, or stand your ground. It is truly more than a shooting stance. Warriors have been using a similar stance for centuries, and it works effectively for multiple weapon systems (I use a variation of this stance when I shoot a bow or rifle) and all body types. With the shooting side foot dropped back slightly, the stance provides solid four-way stability. Should you get bumped from the back or side, the Weaver stance provides stability and helps you stay on your feet (a valuable asset should you find yourself in a self-defense situation). The foot position also allows for easier four-directional movement. Since self-defense situations are typically dynamic, shooters rarely stand in one spot. Instead, practical self-defense requires shooting and movement combined, and the Weaver stance naturally sets the shooter up to move and shoot rather than shooting from a stationary position. Another combat advantage to the Weaver stance is that it naturally lowers your profile. By simply stepping one foot back, the torso angles slightly, providing a smaller target for anyone who might be shooting at you.