3 Reloads, 3 Purposes—Do You Know When to Use Each?

Published on June 24, 2025
Duration: 5:31

This video breaks down three essential handgun reloads: Admin, Tactical, and Speed. An Admin reload is for training purposes without tactical consideration, performed with the gun in the holster. A Tactical reload is a proactive measure to top off ammunition when not under immediate threat, involving a magazine swap and retention. A Speed reload is an emergency action to get back into the fight quickly when the firearm is empty, with various methods for sending the slide forward.

Quick Summary

The three primary handgun reloads are Admin, Tactical, and Speed. Admin reloads are for training with the gun in the holster. Tactical reloads are proactive magazine swaps when not under immediate threat. Speed reloads are emergency actions to quickly get back into the fight when the firearm is empty, utilizing methods like racking the slide or using the slide stop to chamber a round.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Handgun Reloads
  2. 00:18Admin Reload Explained
  3. 00:58Tactical Reload Explained
  4. 02:21Speed Reload Explained
  5. 02:38Methods to Send Slide Forward
  6. 03:55Prepping Firing Hand Thumb
  7. 04:46Summary of Reload Types

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three main types of handgun reloads?

The three main types of handgun reloads are Admin, Tactical, and Speed. An Admin reload is for training without tactical purpose, a Tactical reload is a proactive top-off when not under immediate threat, and a Speed reload is an emergency action to get back into the fight when the firearm is empty.

How do you perform an Admin reload?

An Admin reload is performed with the firearm still in the holster. You press the magazine release, remove the empty magazine, insert a fresh one, and ensure it's fully seated with a tug. This is typically done for practice or to load specific magazines.

What is the difference between a Tactical and a Speed reload?

A Tactical reload is performed when you want to top off your magazine proactively, not under immediate threat, and you retain the partially depleted magazine. A Speed reload is an emergency action to get back into the fight when the firearm is empty, prioritizing speed over retention of the old magazine.

What are the methods for sending the slide forward after a speed reload?

After a speed reload, you can send the slide forward by racking it, using your support hand thumb on the slide stop, or using your firing hand thumb on the slide stop. Racking is universal, while slide stop methods can be faster but require careful execution to avoid errors.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Tenicor

View all →