Tactical Training Techniques: How To Reload

Published on May 29, 2020
Duration: 8:02

This guide details a tactical pistol magazine reload technique demonstrated by Jason from Skeleton Key Tactical at Alien Gear Holsters. The method emphasizes a simultaneous drop and retrieval, efficient magazine seating using visual cues and finger guidance, and a swift slide manipulation to get back on target. It highlights the importance of bringing the firearm to the magazine release and the magazine to the gun at an optimal distance for visibility and control, rather than extending the arms.

Quick Summary

Learn an efficient tactical pistol reload technique: simultaneously move the gun towards your body and drop the mag. Retrieve the next mag with your non-shooting hand, guiding it into the well with your index finger. Then, use your thumb to release the slide and chamber a round.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Topic
  2. 00:10The Magazine Change
  3. 00:39Starting Position: Slide Locked Back
  4. 00:53Simultaneous Actions: Gun Movement & Mag Drop
  5. 00:59Non-Shooting Hand: Magazine Retrieval
  6. 01:10Magazine Insertion and Seating
  7. 01:13Slide Manipulation
  8. 01:26Detailed Breakdown: Magazine Drop Technique
  9. 01:56Avoiding Reaching for the Mag
  10. 02:22The 'Throw Gun Back' Method
  11. 03:01Magazine Retrieval Technique
  12. 03:13Magazine Grip and Indexing
  13. 03:44Guiding Magazine into Well
  14. 04:06Magazine Insertion and Click
  15. 04:12Re-establishing Grip and Slide Release
  16. 04:40Magazine Well Visibility Tip
  17. 05:05Bright Marking for Magazine Well
  18. 05:40Optimal Distance for Tasks
  19. 06:40Common Reloading Mistakes
  20. 07:12Analogy: Loading Mags vs. Extended Arms
  21. 07:42Further Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended technique for dropping a magazine during a tactical reload?

The recommended technique involves simultaneously moving the gun towards your body and rotating it to easily access the magazine release button. Use your fingers to drive the gun back into your thumb, depressing the button efficiently.

How should you grip a spare magazine for a quick reload?

Grip the spare magazine between your thumb and the base of your index finger. Ensure your index finger is along the front edge of the magazine, pointing towards the magazine well, with the fleshy part at the bullet tip for guidance.

What is the optimal distance for performing a pistol magazine change?

The optimal distance is similar to holding reading glasses or a book, about 18-24 inches from your face. This allows you to see the magazine well clearly without overextending your arms, maintaining better control and situational awareness.

What common mistake should be avoided during a pistol reload?

A common mistake is trying to reach the magazine release with the non-shooting hand while maintaining a full shooting grip, which is often physically impossible. Another error is performing reloads with the gun held far out at arm's length, hindering visibility and control.

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