Why does a handgun "KICK" when I shoot it?

Recoil—often called “kick”—is the backward movement you feel when firing a gun. It is a direct result of physics, specifically Newton’s Third Law:

For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

 What Causes Recoil?

When a gun fires:

1. The bullet and expanding gases travel forward.

2. The gun must then move backward with equal energy in the opposite direction.

3. Your hands, arms, and body absorb this force — that feeling is recoil.

 The Key Physics

Momentum (mass × velocity)

• A heavier, faster bullet = more recoil

• Even the gas pushing the bullet contributes to recoil

Energy Must Be Conserved

Nothing is “lost” — the energy that sends the bullet forward also pushes the gun backwards, giving you what we call recoil.

 Felt vs. Actual Recoil

There’s a difference between total recoil energy and felt recoil—how much the shooter experiences. Felt recoil depends on:

 Gun Weight

• Heavier guns absorb more energy → less felt recoil

• Lightweight guns pass more force into your hands

this is why smaller guns are not ideal for begginers. 

 Caliber

• Bigger calibers (e.g. .45 ACP not recommended) produce more recoil than smaller ones (e.g. .22 LR)

• Cartridge power matters (e.g. .357 Magnum vs. 9mm) the longer the case the more power it has.

 Grip and Ergonomics

• Better grip = High Firm pistol grip gives you better recoil control

• Poor grip = Limp wrist gives you more “snap” and muzzle rise

 Recoil Systems

• Some guns have different recoil-reduction mechanisms (e.g. gas systems rifles, rotating barrels pistols)

 Two Types of Recoil You Feel

1. Rearward push – the gun moving backward

2. Muzzle rise / flip – the gun rotating upward, making follow-up shots harder

Muzzle flip is greater when:

• The bore axis is high above your grip

• The gun is lightweight

• The shooter has weak grip or stance

High and firm pistol grip is crutial in order to reduce the muzzel flip. 

 Why Recoil Feels Different Between Guns

Recoil and New Shooters

Beginners often:

• Get intimidated by recoil

• Develop bad habits (flinch, anticipation)

• Lose accuracy and confidence

This is why .22 LR or full-size 9mm pistols are excellent starter choices.

 Summary

Recoil = result of physics (equal/opposite force when firing)

Affected by:

 Caliber

 Gun weight

 Design & ergonomics

 Bullet mass & speed

Small/light guns and big calibers = more felt recoil

Large/heavy guns and small calibers = less felt recoil