Why do powerful handguns jerk upward when shot?

Question

I've shot a 357 magnum, so I know what I'm talking about when I say that the kick of a powerful handgun jerks the gun up about 5 inches. I've also shot rifles and shotguns, and they just kick back. Why do handguns move upward and rifles and shotguns don't?

Answer 1

because of the way the gun is made and how your wrist/hand is put together. The acual explosion is above the level of your hand and so pushes harder against upmost part of your hand and your wrist acts like a hinge so the barrel moves up. Rifles/shotgun's shells are in an almost direct line with your shoulder when fired so when it kicks the force is directed mostly straight back to your shoulder, although there is a slight movement upwards at the front of the barrel.

Answer 2

you're supporting the bottom of the gun with your hands.  the top of the gun has no support.  therefore the recoil goes upward.