I keep a JHP round chambered at all times. The only times I remove the chambered round is if I am training, and don't want to fire that round. My defense ammo is all hollow point (JHP), whereas my training ammo is full metal jacket (FMJ). I load (and prefer) Hornady Critical Duty because it is specially designed to help prevent setback. The unchamberred round is then placed "lower" in the carry magazine so that a fresh round is chambered when I'm ready. Only other time I remove the round is when cleaning my gun.