Firm Pistol Grip - Magnesium Carbonate

TimeAttack

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I've searched the net and I couldn't find any discussion on the topic.

Background:
I don't have a strong grip to begin with and sweaty hands while shooting is an added issue when trying to make consistent hits on target.
I looked at all the solutions available on the market, grip tape, aftermarket grips, custom stippling with a solder iron, etc etc etc.
I spend some time in the gym and one of the ways that I'm able to get a good grip in the gym is with chalk (Magnesium Carbonate). It's inexpensive and unlike straps or gloves or other grip tools, if you lose a piece of chalk, who cares?

To the point:
So I've translated this philosophy into firearms, and I keep a small block of chalk in my gun case and when I'm at the range I chalk up and this allows me to get a firm grip with zero slip, even on the stock grips and I can make consistent groups and I don't have to re grip after every shot.

Pros:
-Cheap (nearly free)
-Doesn't require any modification to the pistol
-Doesn't reduce resale value or void pistol warranty
-Doesn't damage or wear the pistol surface
-Weight is 0oz
-Quick application (3 seconds)

Cons:
-Temporary, as you sweat more the chalk with wear off and you will have to re apply
-If you were to get pulled over they would see a firearm and what looks to be some sort of powdered drug
-Turns the grip all blotchy white


There is almost zero chance that I am the only person to have used chalk in this situation, but I can't find any other discussions on the topic. This leads me to believe it is either a good idea or something is vastly flawed with the idea that I have overlooked.

I know that if I was ever in any sort of shooting competition I would want to have every advantage I could get, has anyone ever heard of doing this in competition?

edit:
I found this stuff for sale
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/836682/ced-fast-grip-hand-cream-50ml
looks like some sort of substance that prevents sweat as well in a non chalk form. IMO I would rather use chalk.

chalk.JPG
 
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I think the stuff you want and are looking for would be Fast Grip. It comes in a liquid form and eliminates sweaty hands. Works very well. Double Tap sports (site sponsor) has it in stock.
 
...has anyone ever heard of doing this in competition?

Products like Pro Grip Enhancer are commonly seen at IPSC matches. I've seen only one Master-class shooter use chalk, but he's retired now.

p_474100000_1.jpg


<http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=7619/Product/PRO-GRIP-ENHANCER>
 
Nice simple solution.... I have a bag of chalk I use for rock climbing, never thought of that... The only thing that I would comment on is that, if you're training with it for a tactical scenario.... I.e LE or CF, then you won't have any chalk with you, nor would you have time to apply it... If you're just target shooting or for competitions, then there's definitely no problems with chalk. Definitely a lot easier than stippling your grip, been looking into it lots lately, and it's a lot of work!
 
I used to be a rock climbing instructor. The whole chalk thing is psychological. Chalk is messy and really does nothing for grip. It's a tradition in climbing and gymnastics but it really does not work.

The problem is sweat. Use a special hand antiperspirant on your hands. They won't sweat anymore. Want dry hands? Spray 99% rubbing alcohol on your hands. They will be dry as the sahara.

If the sweat on your hands is caused by a medical problem you have the solution. If your hands are otherwise normal the sweat is caused by stress. Relax and breathe. No sweat!

The easiest solution? Wipe the palm of your hand on your pant leg. Yes it's that simple. That's what I do when climbing. No chalk - no mess - no sweat. Plus relax. Not only will you not sweat you will not flinch either.
 
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