This Could Save Your Life: Real World Pistol Defense | Slide Out Of Battery

Published on June 27, 2018
Duration: 7:06

This video from Geauga Firearms Academy explains the critical 'out of battery' malfunction in semi-automatic firearms, demonstrating how even a slight forward pressure on the slide can prevent firing. It highlights how this can occur during a struggle and emphasizes the importance of the 'tap' in the 'tap rack bang' drill to confirm magazine seating before cycling the slide, thus preserving the last round if the magazine was lost.

Quick Summary

An 'out of battery' malfunction in a pistol occurs when the slide isn't fully forward, preventing firing. During a struggle, an attacker can cause this. The 'tap' in 'tap rack bang' is vital to confirm magazine seating before cycling, preserving the last round if the magazine was dislodged.

Chapters

  1. 00:16Introduction to Firearm Details in Self-Defense
  2. 00:29Importance of Pelvic Girdle Shot
  3. 01:05Understanding 'Out of Battery' Positions
  4. 01:43Demonstration: Sig P226 (Hammer-Fired)
  5. 02:56Demonstration: S&W M&P (Striker-Fired)
  6. 03:57Scenario: Attacker Grabs Firearm
  7. 05:08Malfunction Clearance: Tap and Rack
  8. 05:36Magazine Dislodged During Struggle
  9. 06:31Conclusion and Channel Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an 'out of battery' malfunction in a pistol?

An 'out of battery' malfunction occurs when the pistol's slide is not fully forward, preventing the firing pin or striker from hitting the primer. This means the gun won't fire, even with a live round in the chamber, and can happen if the slide is bumped or obstructed.

How can a pistol become 'out of battery' during a self-defense struggle?

During a close-quarters struggle, an attacker might grab the firearm and apply forward pressure on the slide. This pressure can push the slide out of battery, rendering the pistol incapable of firing until the slide is properly cycled forward.

Why is the 'tap' important in 'tap rack bang' for an 'out of battery' situation?

The 'tap' in 'tap rack bang' is crucial for confirming magazine seating. If the magazine was dislodged during a struggle, tapping the base of the gun will reveal the absence of a magazine, preventing you from cycling the slide and losing your last live round.

Does the 'out of battery' malfunction affect both hammer-fired and striker-fired pistols?

Yes, the 'out of battery' malfunction is a mechanical issue that affects both hammer-fired and striker-fired semi-automatic pistols. The principle remains the same: the slide must be fully forward for the firearm to function correctly.

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