Former CIA Officer Explains 2 Ways to Press Check a Pistol — Safe & Fast

Published on December 5, 2025
Duration: 4:16

Former CIA Officer Jason Hanson demonstrates two methods for performing a press check on a pistol, a crucial technique for confirming a loaded chamber, especially for concealed carry and home defense. He stresses the importance of carrying with a round chambered and highlights a safer front-slide squeeze method to avoid accidental ejection.

Quick Summary

Former CIA Officer Jason Hanson demonstrates two pistol press check methods: the Rear Slide Pull and the safer Front Slide Squeeze. This technique confirms a loaded chamber, crucial for concealed carry and home defense where stress can cause users to forget to chamber a round.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Press Checking
  2. 00:14Why Carry Loaded?
  3. 00:34Home Invasion Case Study
  4. 02:11Method 1: Rear Slide Pull
  5. 02:46Method 2: Front Slide Squeeze (Safe)
  6. 03:44Firearm Spotlight: CZ P-10 C

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the two main methods for press checking a pistol?

Former CIA Officer Jason Hanson explains two methods: the Rear Slide Pull, where you slightly pull back the slide from the rear to see the chamber, and the Front Slide Squeeze, a safer technique involving gripping the front of the slide from underneath and squeezing back slightly.

Why is a press check important for concealed carry?

A press check is vital for concealed carry and home defense to confirm a round is chambered. In high-stress situations, one might forget to chamber a round, leading to a 'click' instead of a 'bang' when the firearm is needed.

Which press check method is considered safer?

The Front Slide Squeeze method is considered safer. It involves gripping the front of the slide from underneath (keeping fingers away from the muzzle) and squeezing back slightly, making it much harder to accidentally eject the chambered round compared to the rear slide pull.

What firearm does Jason Hanson use and recommend?

Jason Hanson identifies his pistol as a CZ P-10 C, which he considers a superior alternative to a Glock. He uses it for tactical training and recommends it to his students.

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