Charles L. Cotton wrote:If a person is not competent to carry a semi-auto with a round in the chamber, then they should not carry a semi-auto. They should carry a revolver. Not having time to charge the pistol is only one downside; not having two hands available is another. Yes, there are techniques to use for one-handed slide manipulation, but someone one who doesn't have the self-confidence to carry a round in the chamber is not likely to be skilled in wounded drills.
I know some folks argue that it's better to carry a semi-auto without a round in the chamber than to not have a gun at all. I'm not at all sure that's true and my opinion is not limited solely to the condition of the pistol. It's unlikely that a person is physically and mentally prepared to deal with a deadly assault if they are at a stage in their shooting career where a charged pistol makes them uncomfortable. The only reason to leave the chamber empty is because one is afraid they will shoot themselves when drawing. (I don't buy the "bad guy may get my gun" argument.)
Chas.
So true. It might have made critical difference in the outcome of that exchange.
Imagine, even a small 2.5" 357 snub at that close of a distance would have done much more then a weapon in a non-ready state.