MASTERING DOUBLE ACTION ONLY (DAO) TRIGGERS
Dive deep into the mechanics, myths, and mastery of Double Action Only (DAO) triggers. From hammer-fired classics to striker-fired innovations like the 2025 Taurus 650, discover why DAO remains a reliable, safe, and skill-building option for concealed carry and self-defense in today's evolving firearms landscape.
PRINCIPLES OF FIREARMS TRAINING
Principle comes from the Latin word “principium,” which means origin or beginning. Firearms training must be grounded in sound, well-established concepts that are firmly rooted in objective truth. My training methodology is both holistic and nearly universal, designed around the fundamental truths of firearms usage and effective self-defense. Regardless of the specific field or discipline you wish to specialize in, the core principles of my training system remain consistent and unchanging.
MASTERING THE DOUBLE ACTION ONLY
Mastering the double action only (DAO) trigger pull requires consistent practice focused on controlling the long, heavy trigger stroke without disrupting your sight alignment or grip. The key is developing smooth, steady pressure applied straight to the trigger, preventing jerking or flinching that leads to poor accuracy. Dry firing drills, incremental trigger press exercises, and deliberate live-fire repetitions help build the necessary muscle memory. Proper grip and stance must be maintained throughout to manage recoil and follow-through. Patience and repetition are essential, as the DAO pull demands both physical control and mental discipline to achieve reliable, precise shots under stress.
PRACTICAL UNIVERSAL SKILL DEVELOPMENT
Skill development is a lengthy and continuous process that involves progressing deliberately through three distinct and important stages. Any physical skill, regardless of its complexity, is going to require going through these three essential stages in order to effectively develop a skill and move it toward true mastery.
LEARN HOW TO TRAIN, NOT JUST WHAT.
Many instructors can teach you what to train and how to do drills. But what happens when your instructor isn’t around? How do you keep training and improving on what you learned?