The TTPOA Podcast: Episode "Train-Up's" – Ben Steger Discusses Grip

Release Date: October 28, 2024

Hosts: Derek and Brandon
Guest: Ben Steger

Introduction

In this episode of The TTPOA Podcast, hosts Derek and Brandon welcome special guest Ben Steger, a renowned competitive shooter and instructor in the firearms industry. As active-duty police officers leading SWAT teams in Texas, the hosts aim to provide valuable insights into tactics, training, and leadership for first responders. This episode delves deep into the fundamentals of firearm grip, exploring Ben's unique philosophy and teaching methodologies.

Guest Introduction: Ben Steger

The episode kicks off with Derek introducing Ben Steger, highlighting his reputation in the shooting community. Ben agrees to join the conversation, expressing enthusiasm about discussing the foundational aspects of shooting—particularly grip.

Notable Quote:

Derek [01:36]: "If you don't know who Ben is, just Google him and you'll figure out who he is. He's done some things in the shooting world. Competitive shooter, author..."

Ben's Philosophy on Grip

Ben Steger challenges traditional grip teachings by shifting the focus from prescribed techniques to establishing conditions that allow shooters to understand and develop their own effective grips. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a stable and predictable connection with the firearm rather than adhering to rigid grip percentages.

Key Points:

• Connection Over Technique: Instead of dictating how to grip a gun, Ben creates training environments where shooters can naturally develop a grip that works for them.
• Avoiding Percentage-Based Grips: Ben critiques methods that prescribe specific percentage distributions (e.g., 60-40 grip pressure), arguing that it's challenging to quantify and apply consistently.

Notable Quotes:

Ben Steger [04:04]: "The big evolution for me was set the conditions so people can understand it."

Ben Steger [07:17]: "Maintain a stable, predictable connection."

Ben Steger [07:25]: "The gun's not sliding around in my hand while I'm shooting."

Common Shooting Issues: Trigger Freeze and Excessive Grip Strength

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around common issues shooters face, such as trigger freeze—a condition where the shooter's hand tenses up, hindering proper trigger reset and follow-through. Ben attributes these problems to excessive grip strength and the incorrect attempt to control recoil through brute force.

Key Points:

• Trigger Freeze: Occurs when shooters over-grip, leading to tension that impairs trigger control.
• Over-Controlling Recoil: Ben advises against trying to manage recoil by gripping the firearm tighter, as it can be counterproductive.

Notable Quotes:

Ben Steger [09:21]: "Trigger freeze is when people's hand tenses up and they can't even reset the trigger."

Ben Steger [07:39]: "It's actually kind of counterproductive. Right. Because all my fingers are connected."

Ben's Teaching Methods: Principle-Based Instruction

Ben advocates for a principle-based approach to teaching firearm grip rather than strict, technique-focused instruction. His methods encourage shooters to understand the underlying principles of grip and apply them dynamically across various scenarios.

Key Techniques:

• Aggressive Shooting Drills: Ben employs drills like doubles, one-shot returns, and transition awareness to train shooters in maintaining a stable grip under stress.
• Allowing Exploration: By permitting shooters to make mistakes in a controlled environment, they learn to recognize and correct grip flaws organically.

Notable Quotes:

Ben Steger [13:38]: "It's a different philosophy than what most people are going to learn."

Ben Steger [15:32]: "People rise to the expectations that you give them."

Ben Steger [17:03]: "Fill your magazines up. It's like, do the drill."

Adapting to Different Firearms

Ben emphasizes the importance of training with various firearms to develop adaptability and understanding of different platforms. This practice ensures that shooters can apply their grip principles effectively, regardless of the firearm in use.

Key Points:

• Versatility in Training: Ben advocates for training with multiple gun types to build comprehensive grip adaptability.
• Knowledge Transfer: Principles learned on one firearm can be seamlessly applied to others, enhancing overall shooting proficiency.

Notable Quotes:

Ben Steger [21:13]: "I like doing shooting. I like training."

Ben Steger [22:08]: "As a function of all the international travel and then training with different units, it's advantageous for me to shoot different guns."

Impact on Shooters: Personal Anecdotes and Feedback

Throughout the episode, Derek shares personal experiences and feedback from trainees who have benefited from Ben's teaching methods. The freedom to explore and understand grip principles has led to significant improvements in their shooting performance and confidence.

Key Points:

• Empowerment Through Principles: Shooters feel more confident and less constrained by rigid techniques, allowing for more natural and effective firearm handling.
• Positive Feedback: Trainees report feeling more liberated and effective in their shooting, attributing their progress to the principle-based training approach.

Notable Quotes:

Derek [19:44]: "When you hear someone who is a world champion... that you are human. And that is a good thing to hear..."

Ben Steger [17:56]: "You're not just going to shoot one thing for three months and pick up another gun and immediately be like, world class with a gun you haven't touched."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with both hosts expressing gratitude towards Ben for his invaluable insights into firearm grip and training methodologies. They underline the importance of understanding and applying fundamental principles to achieve proficiency and adaptability in shooting.

Notable Quote:

Derek [23:32]: "Hope you listen to the next one. See you train hard, stay safe."

Final Thoughts

In this engaging episode, Ben Steger provides a refreshing perspective on firearm grip, advocating for a principle-based approach that fosters adaptability and confidence among shooters. His emphasis on connection over rigid technique, combined with practical drills and real-world feedback, offers first responders and firearm enthusiasts alike valuable strategies to enhance their shooting performance. Whether you're a novice or an experienced shooter, Ben's insights are instrumental in elevating your training regimen.

Train Hard. Stay Safe.