racking a slide

[kablair]

Help. I don't know where to post this but I'm sure that some good soul will help. My hands are getting to the state (arthritis, neuropothy) where I cannot rack the slides on a semi-auto.

This includes my high powers, 1911, etc.

I hope there is a simple solution - is there?. Some of us are getting older.

Thanks, Kab

Information

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[Sarge1998]

As for application to military surplus semi-autos you are limited or they are non-existent as they were designed for young and healthy service personnel. Modern after market products do offer more options. The condition you are experiencing is the topic of an article in this months American Rifleman and explains the conditions and options for aging shooters.

[browningautorifle]

Hey Kab...wondering if you mean during a "Load"... This one is a bit easier, I too am now bound up with Arthritis... I use skateboard tape on some slides for grip, with no mag installed grip the slide and frame with opposing overhand grip and use your whole hand to open the slide. Lock the slide stop, insert full mag and then use the free hand to release the slide stop. I also have to use both hands now on pistols because the recoil hurts my thumb joint so much...

[Paul S.]

Cock the hammer first.

[Aragorn243]

Cock the hammer first.

So simple a solution but no one thinks of it. I know I wouldn't have.

[browningautorifle]

So simple a solution but no one thinks of it.

I doubt that's enough though...I know where he is with this, I have it too. Anyway, he'll tell us.

[jonnyc]

Shift over to .22 semis or revolvers. For carry or defense, check out the S&W .380 and 9mm "EZ" models.

[WarPig1976]

The tacticool guys rack one handed using the rear sight. Of course you must have a rear sight capable of catching an edge.
Useful if you lose the use of a hand or arm in a gunfight. No reason it can’t be used for arthritis too.

[kablair]

Jim is right - it's not enough. Used that method for the last few years. No longer enough. I don't wish to junk my autos for a .22 !

Anyway thanks to all - the very concept of people trying to help is great.

-Kab

[Daan Kemp]

Possible solution

1. Cock hammer. Removes some effort required to draw back the slide.
2. Grip slide with weak hand, holding weak arm and hand close to body.
3. Grip frame with strong hand as normal.
4. Straighten strong arm and push hard with strong hand simultaneously, while weak hand and arm remain held tight against body.

This uses the shoulders as a lever with little strength required. Takes some practice but works well for weak arms and hands, and ladies with little arm strength especially shooting the first time.