Can't rack slide on compact 9mm

[cheryld]

I cannot rack the slide on my new M&P compact 9mm. I have tried many different techniques and I still can't do it. I am in a wheelchair. Does anyone know if anything can be done to "lighten" the pull? Any replies appreciated. Cheryl

 

[mittenzon]

Here's a good video explaining it.

GunTalkTV - The #1 Online Resource for Gun Training

 

[P&R Fan]

Lighter springs may help, but would likely cause malfunctions. Have you tried the "push/pull" method? You grip the slide firmly with your support hand cupped firmly over the top of the slide. and you pull the slide back. Your strong hand holds the grip and you push forward, thus you push/pull both ways simultaneously. This is very effective, and if done correctly, very safe.
Other than that, have you considered a revolver? If not I would highly recommend one.
All the best to you.
Jim

 

[mittenzon]

OOPS! That takes you to GunTalkTV.com but not to the exact video!

Choose "Getting Started", then "The Basics" from the menu on the left side of the screen.

Then scroll down about half way on the menu on the right side looking for "Racking a Slide."

 

[P&R Fan]

That was a good video. The only caveat I would add is make SURE you keep your finger off the trigger, and as the demonstrator said, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

 

[Pondhill]

That is a very good site thanks.

 

[srgvaz]

I cannot rack the slide on my new M&P compact 9mm. I have tried many different techniques and I still can't do it. I am in a wheelchair. Does anyone know if anything can be done to "lighten" the pull? Any replies appreciated. Cheryl

I know a guy in a chair and his upper body is strong. I suppose it just depends on you type of injury or genetics. If you cannot rack a slide on an auto stick with a revolver, or two.

 

[texanfan]

an alternative

One alternative for you to consider would be to practice using the rear sight on the slide to catch on your chair or some other fixed object. By pushing on the grip, you should be able to rack the slide with some practice. We use this method on a belt for one handed malfunction drills. Assuming you aren't at the practice range, this method may give you some confidence if you are carrying the weapon for personal protection. I would just suggest finding what works best for your physical skill set and sticking with one method for all manipulations, ie. reloading, malfunctions drills etc. Just be sure to do it safely.

 

[silvercn]

if push pull dosent work I would definatly go with a revolver...
S&W M&P are great revolvers.... and history shows reliability in revolvers.
good luck.

 

[mgo]

I cannot rack the slide on my new M&P compact 9mm. I have tried many different techniques and I still can't do it. I am in a wheelchair. Does anyone know if anything can be done to "lighten" the pull? Any replies appreciated. Cheryl

You might consider some leather work gloves for improved grip. Since the pistol can be kept with a round in the chamber, using the gloves for loading or unloading would be the only time they would be needed. Those gloves could also be used for taking down the pistol for maintenance. That help prevent pinching the hands during takedown and reassembly.

 

[cheryld]

Thanks everyone for the replies. I have tried the push/pull method before and it didn't work. However, the video shows it a little different. I will try all of your suggestions and let you know I make out.

 

[cheryld]

Update

Thanks for the link to the movie. I think I have the pull/push method down now. However, I had to trade this gun in for another one that I could rack. The gun shop had a display model with no problems. The slide is still a little hard, but I can rack it and drop it much easier. The gun shop guys were great. I want to thank all of you for your help. I've learned a lot. Now to get to the range and shoot my new M&P.

 

[Seedtick]

cheryld, it appears I'm a little late to the party but you might want to keep this in mine for future pistol purchases. I ran across these a while back and it looks like it could be awful handy for folks that could use a little help racking a stout slide.

Smith and Wesson Charger Rear Sights

I don't know anything about them. It's just something I found while surfin'. HTH

ST

 

[P&R Fan]

Cheryl, you will of course give us a range report, right?
I'm glad it's working out for you.
Jim

 

[Cocked & Locked]

yes...

ahhh, a story with a good ending!