Shotgun grips come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed to cater to different shooting styles and preferences. The most common types of shotgun grips include pistol grips, straight grips, and thumbhole grips. Pistol grips feature a vertical design that allows the shooter to hold the shotgun more securely with their dominant hand. Straight grips are straight in shape and provide a more traditional feel, popular among hunters and traditional shooters. Thumbhole grips have a hole for the shooter’s thumb to pass through, offering enhanced stability and control.

1. Straight Grip (English Grip)

Description:

• No pistol-style curve; the wrist stays relatively straight.

• Common on traditional side-by-side shotguns.

Advantages:

• Encourages quick hand movement and instinctive shooting

• Easier to slide the hand back for opening the gun

• Classic, lightweight feel

Disadvantages:

• Less control under heavy recoil

• Not ideal for high-volume shooting

Best for:

• Upland hunting (quail, grouse, woodcock)

• Walk-up shooting and traditional game guns

2. Pistol Grip

Description:

• Pronounced curve like a handgun grip.

• Very common on over/unders and semi-autos.

Advantages:

• Strong control and recoil management

• Comfortable for sustained shooting

• Works well with heavier loads

Disadvantages:

• Slightly slower hand movement for some shooters

• Less traditional look

Best for:

• Sporting clays, trap, skeet

• Waterfowl and target shooting

3. Prince of Wales Grip

Description:

• A compromise between straight and full pistol grip.

• Gentle curve with a slimmer profile.

Advantages:

• Good balance of control and elegance

• More comfortable than straight grip for many shooters

• Allows faster hand repositioning than a full pistol grip

Disadvantages:

• Not as much leverage as a full pistol grip

Best for:

• Driven game

• Upland hunting with modern loads

• Shooters who want versatility

5. Round Knob / Ball Grip

Description:

• A straight grip with a rounded knob at the end.

• Classic British design.

Advantages:

• Helps maintain hand position

• Retains straight-grip flexibility

Disadvantages:

• Limited recoil control

Best for:

• Traditional side-by-side game guns

Just as a wing and clays shooter strives for the perfect gun fit, they should consider the perfect grip for their shotgun.

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