Mistakes made, lessons learned

[psyprofessor]

Zach...what is a "slide slammer"? (I'm new to all this.) When I load my pistol, I insert the mag and release the slide lock...causing the slide to slam forward and load the bullet in the chamber. Is this not the protocol on loading?

 

[Sackett]

Psyprof.- Collective wisdom says that releasing the slide with no cartridge present places undue stress on the breech components. (seems I've heard debate on how bad this really is with modern weapons made with quality steel, but it makes me cringe just the same).

With a relatively soft brass or alum. casing in place, combined with the friction force of stripping it off the magazine, the mechanism is 'cushioned' as it closes and this poses no problem. So go right on thumbing that slide release if it makes you happy. Just make sure you're loading it, and not standing at the gun shop counter.

Re. 'Hollywood flippers' - Some folks like to close revolvers with a snap of the wrist, thus banging the cylinder against the frame components, which will lead to real problems down the line. Better to slowly squeeze it back into position.

I'm relatively new to handguns as well, but spend enough time on THR and you'll get a PHD (Permanent Head Damage) in Firearm Etiquette

 

[rcnixon]

Why did you accept a weapon with the bolt closed and a magazine inserted? I have NEVER handed anyone a weapon with a closed bolt unless there was a malfuntion and the RSO wanted it. Bolt open, slide locked back or cylinder swung out, pointed in a safe direction. If someone hands me one, the first thing I do is open the bolt and lock it open and discuss my reasoning and actions; sometimes loudly and at length. For actions without an open lock, an open bolt indicator is your friend. Even a pencil can be an OBI in a pinch.

Obligitory rules restatement:
1. Treat all weapons as if they are loaded.
2. Never point a weapon at something you don't want to shoot.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
4. Identify your target and what is behind it.

I'm glad your day didn't end badly. Try to educate your friend and keep to the rules. Everybody, let's be safe out there, OK?

Thanks for listening.

 

[psyprofessor]

Thanks Sacket!!

 

[ceadermtnboy]

Look dont sweat it! Seriously you had the gun pointed in a safe direction and had you finger off of the trigger. The good news is that you knew what to do to rectify the situation and handled it calmly.