What is “Rack the Slide”?
“Rack the slide” is a command and technique in firearms training that involves pulling back and releasing the slide on a semi-automatic pistol. This action chambers a round, ejects a spent casing, or clears malfunctions.
It’s used for loading and chambering a round from the magazine, clearing stoppages like a failure to eject, and unloading the firearm by removing a chambered round when clearing the gun.
People Also Ask
Why is racking the slide difficult for some people?
Hand strength can be challenging to tackle the slide, but technique matters more. Using a push-pull method makes the process easier.
What is the correct technique for racking a slide?
Hold the pistol close, grip the slide with your support hand, push forward with your strong hand while pulling back on the slide, and release it.
Should you “ride the slide” when racking?
No, you should release the slide completely to let the recoil spring chamber the round properly and avoid malfunctions.
