I've noticed over the last little bit - and in two current threads - that alot of folks new to S&W compact 45 models, such as the 457, 4516 and 4513, have been mentioning "problems" seating a mag.
Last night I recieved a call from an acquaintance who had just recieved a 457 pistol. He was frustrated and claimed the pistol was "broken" as it "would not seat a magazine with the slide forward." As I had advised him to purchase the 457 rather than an XD or M&P, this was somehow "my fault".
I had him bring me his 457 and the three mags it came with. I checked it clear, dropped the slide and proceeded to insert and SLAP the first mag home. "HEY! GO EASY!" said he. Au contrare. One must firmly SLAP the base of the 7-round compact 45 mag, with the ball of the off hand, in order to assure it locks into the mag well. Especially a brand new magazine filled to capacity as when topping off your gun. I proceeded to demonstrate with all three of his mags including one filled to capacity.
A FIRM SLAP gents. Not violence, but firmness. Then give it a tug on the base between your thumb and forefinger to assure yourself it is indeed seated. An ounce of prevention for when Mr Murphy is about.
While those of us who have years behind these pistols may know this trick, be sure and demonstrate the method for those new to the 3rd gen compacts. Evidently those who are experienced with other single stack pistols have a little difficulty, at first, with the compact S&W 45's.
Hope this helps! Regards 18DAI
Last night I recieved a call from an acquaintance who had just recieved a 457 pistol. He was frustrated and claimed the pistol was "broken" as it "would not seat a magazine with the slide forward." As I had advised him to purchase the 457 rather than an XD or M&P, this was somehow "my fault".
I had him bring me his 457 and the three mags it came with. I checked it clear, dropped the slide and proceeded to insert and SLAP the first mag home. "HEY! GO EASY!" said he. Au contrare. One must firmly SLAP the base of the 7-round compact 45 mag, with the ball of the off hand, in order to assure it locks into the mag well. Especially a brand new magazine filled to capacity as when topping off your gun. I proceeded to demonstrate with all three of his mags including one filled to capacity.
A FIRM SLAP gents. Not violence, but firmness. Then give it a tug on the base between your thumb and forefinger to assure yourself it is indeed seated. An ounce of prevention for when Mr Murphy is about.
While those of us who have years behind these pistols may know this trick, be sure and demonstrate the method for those new to the 3rd gen compacts. Evidently those who are experienced with other single stack pistols have a little difficulty, at first, with the compact S&W 45's.
Hope this helps!
Regards 18DAI
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