by Tiger McKee During training/practicing we use techniques and principles. For example the empty reload is a manipulation technique. You're firing the weapon. On the last shot the slide locks to the rear - at least on most semi-autos. Old mag out, new mag in, chamber a round. The technique is pretty simple. But, just because it's simple doesn't mean it's easy. Learning to reload means you can perform that technique in the dark on your back while somebody is trying to punt your head into the next county. It takes a lot of repetitions to be able to reload under any type circumstances. Then there are variations of the reload technique. The empty magazine doesn't drop free of the mag-well. You have to pull it out, usually with the support hand; at least until your support hand is injured. Now you have to reload using only your strong/primary/dominant hand. You still have to get the empty mag out, install a loaded mag, and chamber a round. Principles, such as efficiency, apply to a broad range of applications. Take efficiency. Any technique must be trimmed down to the minimal amount of action necessary to perform that task. You can reload with three actions, or using six steps. Which will be more efficient? But speed isn't the only consideration. Another principle of combat is maintaining visual contact with your threat(s). Looking at the pistol to reload during a match may save you some time, but is that gain worth losing visual contact with the threat(s)? Remember, your opponent will be moving. Most environments contain a variety of objects that provide cover and concealment. If you don't watch 'em you could get into big trouble. Another principle concept to keep in mind is that slightly over seventy percent of violent confrontations occur in low-light environments. If you're not practicing to reload that pistol in the dark then you're not preparing for reality. For fighting, reality should be the guiding force behind all your principles and techniques. Drawing on the buzzer and banging six steel targets with three shots each in five seconds - I'm being sarcastic here - is an impressive range drill and probably provides one with an intense feeling of satisfaction. But it doesn't prepare you for the reality of fighting when you have to use your flashlight to separate the good guys from the bad guys. They're all three-dimensional, look and dressed the same; you're not going to be attacked by stationary flat rectangular shaped white steel targets all lined up in a row. Everyone is running around like crazy. You're responsible for every bullet you fire. No matter where it goes. And you better decide what to do, quickly, because there wont' be any walk-through or chance to rehearse. Techniques and principles for fighting must be based on reality. Or, you may just be into performing range drills that are fast and exciting, which is ok. Just keep in mind this doesn't prepare you to defend yourself, friends or family from actual danger. Study reality well, and prepare accordingly. Tiger McKee is director of Shootrite Firearms Academy, located in northern Alabama. He is the author of "The Book of Two Guns," writes for several firearms/tactical publications, and is featured on GunTalk's DVD, "Fighting With The 1911 - http://shootrite.org/dvd/dvd.html Website: www.shootrite.org http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shootrite-Firearms-Academy/156608611038230?ref=ts