A Question for LC9 Owners

[Mike1951]

I stopped by Academy today to handle an LC9.

My concern is that neither I nor the young, stout sales clerk could operate the slide release without relieving some slide tension.

So, for those of you who have broken in your LC9, how much easier has it gotten to operate the slide release using one hand?

[ske1eter]

Maybe it's not a slide release but rather a slide stop/hold open? As mentioned on pg.10 of the LC9 manual, the 'hold open' is released by
'pulling slide slightly rearward.'"

[WildBill]

I have no first hand experience, but I have read on other forums that the LC9 does have a "sticky" slide release that slightly improves with use.

[Mike1951]

Maybe it's not a slide release but rather a slide stop/hold open? As mentioned on pg.10 of the LC9 manual, the 'hold open' is released by
'pulling slide slightly rearward.'"

Requiring both hands. Once the bullets fly, you may not have the use of both hands.

I'm interested in how this plays out. IMO, any firearm requiring both hands to operate is a range toy, not a self defense tool.

[WildBill]

Maybe it's not a slide release but rather a slide stop/hold open? As mentioned on pg.10 of the LC9 manual, the 'hold open' is released by
'pulling slide slightly rearward.'"

Requiring both hands. Once the bullets fly, you may not have the use of both hands.

I'm interested in how this plays out. IMO, any firearm requiring both hands to operate is a range toy, not a self defense tool.

I have noticed the same thing on my Sig P239. When I first bought it I could not release the slide with my thumb. As I used it more it became easier.

[threoh8]

. IMO, any firearm requiring both hands to operate is a range toy, not a self defense tool.

1. How many hands did you use to insert the new magazine?

2. I guess that rules out shotguns and rifles, too, huh?

[Mike1951]

. IMO, any firearm requiring both hands to operate is a range toy, not a self defense tool.

1. How many hands did you use to insert the new magazine?

2. I guess that rules out shotguns and rifles, too, huh?

Hopefully, we will always have two hands, but you're assuming you'll never be wounded.

BTW, I can load a mag or shuck a round and fire a pump shotgun using one hand.

[mgood]

On an empty gun with the magazine in it, it can be difficult to thumb down the slide stop. The magazine follower is pushing up on it under spring tension. I have zero experience with the LC9, but my first suggestion would be to drop the mag. That will allow you to feel about how it will feel with a loaded mag in it. Also, most new guns loosen up a little after the first couple of range sessions.

How many hands did you use to insert the new magazine?

This guy doesn't use any hands. I don't think it shows him inserting the magazine into the pistol, but keep the video rolling to the end and it does show him loading cartridges into the mag.
[youtube]http://youtube.com/watch?v=tlMz2sCDCA4[/youtube]
NEVER say "I can't"!

[Mike1951]

My Kahr PM9 is designed to be difficult when the mag is empty. That's your cue to reload. The Kahr manual also specifically states to NOT slingshot the slide, but to feed the first round using the slide release.

Due to Academy's paranoia, the magazine was removed so today was without mag inserted.

[threoh8]

Hopefully, we will always have two hands, but you're assuming you'll never be wounded.

I assume nothing of the sort. I will say that most modern firearms are much more conveniently reloaded and operated with two hands. Being able to work with either hand alone is a good thing, but is going to be awkward. I see nothing here that says the LC9 is any worse than many other pistols, rifles, or shotguns.

BTW, I can load a mag or shuck a round and fire a pump shotgun using one hand.

As can I. And I can work the slide on my autoloaders one handed as well. That's especially handy in the one-arm-down scenario. (pun intended)

[Mike1951]

One thing that I found in the LC9 manual that has lessened my concern is that the slide lock is spring loaded downward.

So the LC9 could be held by the grip and the end of the slide pressed against a surface to release the slide.

Of course, it would have to be established that full battery would be achieved 100% of the time.

I'm trying very hard to like the LC9.

I can ignore the lock and the manual safety. Still undecided on whether to remove the mag safety. I've removed them on my Hi-Powers.

[terryg]

Still undecided on whether to remove the mag safety. I've removed them on my Hi-Powers.

I removed from my SR9c. If I pickup an LC9, this will be the first thing to go.