rebs, I am tardy responding, but using the gauge on my SIG P210s for instance, I apply pressure slowly. At the end of the first stage, a slight hitch/shelf will be felt, and can be measured at that point. Adding pressure till the trigger breaks gives the total. For instance, on my 210s, the first stage averages 2.5#, then about a pound more pressure for a total of ~3.5# indicated on the gauge will allow the hammer to drop.