Why Do Young Gangsters in Movies Hold Guns Sideways and Does It Affect Aim?

Have you ever wondered why you often see young gangsters in movies holding their guns sideways? Is this a deliberate choice for dramatic effect, or is there a practical reason behind it? In this article, we will explore the reasoning behind this seemingly peculiar stance and whether it impacts aim in a real-world setting.

The Practical Reasons Behind the Sideways Stance

One common reason for this stance is the practical management of spent casings. In the context of large groups of extras in a film, holding the gun horizontally allows for the spent casing to eject either straight down for left-handed shooters or backward and up for right-handed shooters. This ensures that no brass casings inadvertently hit the bare skin of the extras, creating a safer and more organized shooting environment during film production.

Ergonomics and Accuracy

There is also a strong biomechanical rationale for the sideways hold. When holding a gun out in front of your body, the natural extension of the arm is closer to a sideways position. This positioning can be more comfortable and efficient for many individuals, potentially leading to smoother and more controlled movements. However, it's important to note that the accuracy of a shot is primarily determined by sight alignment and trigger control, not the angle at which the gun is held.

Fantasy vs. Reality in Shooting Techniques

In the context of film, the sideways hold might seem inaccurate, but in reality, it could give gangsters a different kind of practical advantage. During a chaotic and rapid exchange of gunfire, precision might not be the primary concern. Instead, the ability to quickly and efficiently fire multiple rounds is often more critical. The sideways hold might allow for a more efficient “spray and pray” technique, which can be more effective in a high-stress scenario.

Forensic Evidence and Law Enforcement

Forensic evidence plays a crucial role in criminal investigations. In real-life scenarios, weapon markings and casings can provide valuable clues. However, in the context of a sideways hold, the spent casings are ejected either straight up or straight down, making it more difficult for law enforcement to trace evidence back to the shooter. This reduced evidence trail can benefit criminals in a real-world setting.

Conclusion

The sideways hold in films is a practical choice that serves several purposes, from practicality on set to reducing forensic traceability in real-life scenarios. However, in real-world shooting, accuracy remains primarily a function of sight alignment and trigger control, rather than the hold angle.

While the sideways hold in movies might seem somewhat dramatic, it is rooted in practical considerations that can significantly impact both film and reality.