Pistol Malfunction Clearance

This video by Clint Smith of Thunder Ranch provides essential pistol malfunction clearance techniques. It covers the 'Salt' drill (Tap-Rack-Fire) for failures to fire and stovepipes, and the 'Pepper' drill (remove mag, clear chamber, reload, fire) for double feeds. Smith emphasizes maintaining muzzle discipline and aggressive, decisive action over over-analysis of malfunction types.

Quick Summary

The 'Salt' drill (Tap-Rack-Fire) clears failures to fire and stovepipes by tapping the mag, racking the slide, and firing. For double feeds, use the 'Pepper' drill: remove mag, clear chamber, reload, and fire. Always maintain muzzle discipline.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Malfunction Clearance
  2. 00:15Administrative Loading and Basic Drill
  3. 00:45The 'Salt' Drill (Tap-Rack-Fire)
  4. 01:42Clearing Stovepipe Malfunctions
  5. 02:51The 'Pepper' Drill (Double Feed)
  6. 04:56Safety and Mindset

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Salt' drill for clearing pistol malfunctions?

The 'Salt' drill, also known as Tap-Rack-Fire, is used for common malfunctions like failures to fire or stovepipes. It involves tapping the magazine to ensure it's seated, racking the slide to chamber a round, and then attempting to fire again.

How do you clear a double feed malfunction in a pistol?

For a double feed, use the 'Pepper' drill: remove the magazine, cycle the slide multiple times to clear the obstruction, reinsert a fresh magazine, rack the slide, and then attempt to fire.

What is a 'stovepipe' malfunction?

A 'stovepipe' or 'smoke stack' malfunction occurs when a spent casing fails to eject properly and gets caught in the slide's path, preventing the firearm from cycling.

What is Clint Smith's advice on handling malfunctions?

Clint Smith advises maintaining muzzle discipline towards the threat and acting aggressively and decisively. He suggests focusing on rapid clearance rather than over-analyzing the specific type of malfunction.

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