TRAINING WITH KL STRATEGIC (8): Secure loading techniques for pistol and revolver

Loading and unloading handguns is one of the fundamental processes in handling firearms. As simple as it may seem, these processes are often portrayed as cumbersome and risky. In certain circles, it often appears as if loading activities are something that one would have to study for several semesters in order to keep an alleged risk manageable.

This article aims to focus on the simplest ways to load ammunition into the weapon and unload it, clearing up any misconceptions along the way. So let's get started!

Working in the Operating Area

In part 6, I already went into detail about the operating area and its function and would like to briefly touch on the most important things for loading activities. The operating area refers to a spherical space of about 60cm in diameter in front of the shooter's head and chest. Manipulations on a weapon can be quickly, safely, and effectively performed in this area. It is important to perform movements as naturally as possible, with movements taking place in the field of vision and postures not being unnecessarily tense. Movements should be done in straight lines, and most importantly: one must see what they are doing!

Damn, reloading again: Tense posture.

Correct posture when reloading.

Although it is often heard that the operating area might lead to disqualification in sports, I assure you that this is not correct. Depending on the sports regulations and discipline, one may need to pay attention to the deviation of the muzzle from the direct shooting direction, but the operating area itself is ALWAYS permitted in sports. Since an awareness of the muzzle is essential for every shooter, the question of the correct posture of the weapon is purely academic, but it will still be briefly discussed for pistols and revolvers.

Muzzle Awareness

While pistols usually orient the muzzle upwards during loading activities (see image), the orientation changes during loading activities with revolvers.

Muzzle awareness is an essential part of firearm handling and should therefore be the focus of basic sensitization. However, this does not mean that responsibility is taken away from the shooter with countless regulations and restrictions, but quite the opposite. As a shooter, one is solely responsible for the weapon, including ensuring that the muzzle is pointed only where it should be.

An evaluation of accident statistics in firearms handling in connection with modified training since 2009 showed that simply returning responsibility to the individual(s) led to a significant decrease in shooting incidents (41%), unintended discharges (84%), and endangering behavior (76%). This is attributed to the fact that "external control" by supervisors and range officers removes responsibility from the shooter and, therefore, does not create a sense of guilt for misbehavior. By taking personal responsibility, sensitization occurs in advance, preventing mistakes and promoting positive development of one's skills.

This can be compared to driving a car. Imagine having to always get into a car with an instructor who tells you every single step and kicks you out of the car if you make a mistake.

Muzzle awareness is the first step towards acting responsibly with firearms.

Reloading Pistols

Pistols are usually loaded using magazines. This simplifies many things regarding loading activities, as cartridges do not have to be fed individually, as with revolvers.

It is recommended to incorporate loading activities as part of a complete movement sequence to consolidate the connected processes; for example, when loading, carry out the process to the stop and then bring the weapon into the working area. This way, these processes are practiced more.

In the operating area, the weapon - taking into account the respective regulations - is turned so that the muzzle and magazine well are in the field of vision and are actually visible. The working hand is released in parallel and reaches for the needed magazine; for loading, the slowest magazine (see also Part 11 - Equipment).

Then the focus shifts from the target area to the magazine well, and the magazine is inserted and locked in one motion.

Magazine Change

The magazine change is also done in the operating area. Unlike reloading, magazine changes are done whenever a full magazine in the weapon is more appropriate to avoid delays caused by reloading. The magazine change is also known as a tactical reload and is not performed under pressure.

The working hand initially grasps the new magazine (slow magazine), which is then brought towards the weapon in the operating area.

Only then is the old magazine removed from the weapon and the new magazine inserted. It should be ensured that the trigger finger is not on the trigger and, if possible, the weapon is secured. It should be noted that there is still a cartridge in the chamber during the magazine change.

There are two possible ways to hold the magazine during the magazine change:

SPARTANAT is the online magazine for Military News, Tactical Life, Gear & Reviews.
Send us your news: [email protected]