This weighted pistol tip can make a big difference in your ability to pull off the move, especially when going for a heavy weight.

For those not familiar with it, the pistol is a one leg squat where the extra leg is held in front of you.

It all depends on how much you’re able to use the weight to counterbalance yourself.

By holding the weight in two hands, you can turn the weighted pistol into more of a back raise and less of a squat.
By holding the weight in one hand, typically on the same side as the leg you are squatting with, you’re limited in how far forward you can lean.
Also if you use two weights, like holding two kettlebells in the rack position as shown, it achieves the same effect as the latter; thi is because you can’t move them forward much to counterbalance.

Therefore, I have found it much better to use options two or three instead of one, when working with this exercise.