Tactical Handgun Course

[Murcus]

I just completed a first level tactical handgun course using my 9c. My question for the experienced community has to do with reloading. The instructors specifically tutored us on keeping the muzzle pointing at the target, pressing the mag release with one hand and slapping the new mag in place after the spent one was dropped.

My problem with the 9c and the use of extended magazines with the X-Grip was that I had to shift my hand to bring my thumb closer to the mag release and at the same time that I pressed the release, keep the palm of my hand off of the X-Grip so the mag would fall free. I had difficulty with this and had to twist the pistol rapidly in order to fling the magazine loose. The only repeatable solution, short of using my weak hand, was to turn my body sideways a bit and change the grip with my hand so the muzzle stayed on the target.

Is there a cure for the spastic? (Are there other solutions?)

Thanks.

Mark

 

[moxie]

I don't use the extended mags and X-grip when taking those courses or doing those drills.

The 12 round mags are plenty. You can drop those and reload without any problem.

 

[Smithbrother]

Practice the reload with several empty mags. You'll find that with repetition you will find a way to manipulate the weapon. Turning your body sideways is not the answer. You might consider practicing in the mirror or with a laser attached to the weapon to give you an idea of where its pointed as you reload.

 

[RobzGuns]

I've never been able to use my 'shooting' thumb to activate any gun's mag release. I learned to use my 'support' hand's thumb.
Hit the release with m support hand's thumb, grab the mag on the drop and stow it, then grab fresh mag & insert.
It ain't perfect, but ya do what ya gotta do.

sent from my Commodore64 & acoustic modem

 

[Smithbrother]

I have small hands. I find my way around the grip by turning my bent shooting elbow into the middle of my gut. and canting the weapon slightly on its side with the ejection port slightly pointed down (right hand). At the same time as I cant the weapon down, I hit the mag release and flip the empty mag toward my left foot. At the same time as all that I'm reaching for a new mag and bringing it up into the mag well, all the while looking over the top of the weapon toward the threat. Hope all that helps.

 

[Murcus]

Thanks for the three responses. I think the answer is to use the 12 bullet magazine for courses. There is no problem with their falling from the grip. My thoughts were to get practice with the full sized magazines, since my intent is to carry the 9c with the 12-round mag and use the full size as a backup.
Mark

 

[Mcwsky09]

What I have seen on tv shows covering competitive shooing included one where any magazine with rounds have to be captured and stowed not dropped. Not sure all the rules at different events. But seems that not dropping your mag night have some value but on the flip side you have to make sure on your second mag change you don't grab the empty one.

 

[agksimon]

What I have seen on tv shows covering competitive shooing included one where any magazine with rounds have to be captured and stowed not dropped. Not sure all the rules at different events. But seems that not dropping your mag night have some value but on the flip side you have to make sure on your second mag change you don't grab the empty one.

This is in IDPA rules; if you are in slidelock, you may drop the empty mag. If you have a round in the mag and/or chamber, with the slide forward, you have to retain the mag during a change.
I also have a 9c that I shoot at IDPA events. Make sure you have the right size rear grip panel that allows you to properly use the mag release, without moving your hand position. When inserting a fresh mag, angle the butt of the gun, 45 degrees, toward your other hand with the mag in it. It will make it much easier and faster to reload. Try it for yourself.

 

[paladin**]

I've never been able to use my 'shooting' thumb to activate any gun's mag release. I learned to use my 'support' hand's thumb.
Hit the release with m support hand's thumb, grab the mag on the drop and stow it, then grab fresh mag & insert.
It ain't perfect, but ya do what ya gotta do.

sent from my Commodore64 & acoustic modem

I have this exact same problem and am learning to use the off hand thumb. Even the small backstrap does not completely let me reach the release.

 

[SmurfHunter]

I've used a few different weapons when I take courses. Recently while using my shield I had to change my reloading technique. I shoot left hand, so I slightly turn the gun inwards towards the body which allows me to press the mag release to let the mag fall freely while still keeping the barrel pointed generally down range. I keep the gun eye level which allows me to cleanly reload another mag then sling shot the slide with my right reloading hand.

 

[kyf]

I have this exact same problem and am learning to use the off hand thumb. Even the small backstrap does not completely let me reach the release.

Have you tried reversing the mag release button so you can use your middle or index finger of your strong hand instead of your strong hand thumb or weak hand at all? I have reversed all of my M&P's and found it is easier and more comfortable with a little bit of practice. May not be everyone's cup of tea but it works well for me. Even did my tactical pistol class with my .40 Pro and ran the gun with no problems with either type of reload.