Here is probably a question that everyone knows but me. As a revolver guy I don't know a lot about the 9mm autos. I just picked up a Sigma 9VE. My question is in regard to racking a first round. Whenever I rack the slide back it always locks up by the "slide release catch" so I have to press the slide release lever to release the slide and chamber the round. What do I have to do to rack the slide complete back so that it won't hang up by the safety release. Do I have to release the slide lock at the same time I am racking? I see guys racking all the time and none of them hang up at the slide release point. Or is that just the way this model works. I am thinking that I don't know what I am doing... Hope I made myself clear.... Thanks

No, it shouldn't operate that way. The slide stop lever should have a little bit of spring tension holding it down. The follower in a empty mag will have enough pressure to lift it up. Is it a new gun or used?

The only time the slide stop should lock the slide back is when an empty magazine is inserted and the slide is pulled back manually or the last round is fired.

A magazine with rounds should not activate the slide stop.

When chambering a round, you should be able to "slingshot" the slide by pulling it back and letting go of the slide. The slide stop should drop down out of the way and let the slide go forward.

If it does not work like that, then call S&W for a shipping label back to the factory for repair.

[QUOTE=jja327;1190735]The only time the slide stop should lock the slide back is when an empty magazine is inserted and the slide is pulled back manually or the last round is fired.

jja237...... Thanks for your help. I was using an empty magazine and as you said this was causing the slide to lock back. I didn't realize that you had to have a round/dummy in the mag in order to completey rack. I guess you are my first instructor........ Also thanks to All for your help as well.
-mo

Molinee... This Forum is the place to go for information about firearms and a lot of other things. I have been amazed by how helpful and respectful members are here. It is the first place I go to if I have a firearms question that I cannot figure out. Welcome aboard.

and you will find alot of info in the FAQ and just reading old post. Thats the one thing I have learned, all the members here will help you and answer your question or point you in the right direction to find it.

Thanks again to All for your help and encouragement. I have always been a revolver guy, especially in my younger days and never got involved in the semi-autos. I was always concerned about dealing with more malfunctions than I would have with the revolvers... Time to come into the 21st Century. I will weed my way thru the FAQs as suggested.

[QUOTE=molinee;1190852]Or just don't put a mag in until you are ready to have the gun loaded. When I am dry firing I never have a mag in place. Now that I think about it .. I never have a mag in place unless I have it ready to go in the house or ccw. Even if I put it in the storage box in the closet I drop the mag. Strange habit but ..

Its all personal preference.
Alex