Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/550184
FIREARMS If it comes to a loaded chamber indicator this solution is well known, as it was in Smith&Wesson M&P, and in the Glock, although the XDM had a different approach to this issue than its competitors. What are the advantages and disadvantages? In the Glock this indicator is clearly tactile under the index finger of right-handed shooter, when he places his hand on the frame, but in the case of the left-handed a touch control of the loaded chamber status must be done with other hand. However, a visual inspection of the indicator provides no problems, but it is not so intuitive as in the XDM, where an indicator is located in the upper part of the slide. It is perfectly visible also during shooting while moving. It is sufficient as a part of the standard check, for the purpose of noticing any possible stoppages, have once again a look at the mentioned indicator which will inform us if there is a cartridge in the chamber. Nevertheless, an inspection of this indicator in the darkness must be done with the other hand. As a shooter following a principle: "I will not believe until I see", despite enjoying the mentioned indicators, which in any manner neither diminish nor increase the chances of its damaging, I am not able to resign from the classic form of the weapon check which is a "press-check". Both for me, and the shooters with whom I train it is although the most certain form of checking up, especially that a loaded chamber indicator will also display if there is only a case. While taking a look on the XDM pictures it is hard not to notice a lever which enables detaching a slide from the pistol frame. On the photos this lever really stands out, and while shooting its size and location makes a perfect rest for a thumb of the right hand. It does not bother in any way in drawing or reholstering plus it does not get caught by anything. It does not mean that I would glorify this not so much aesthetic solution, but I have found in it an additional support when gripping a pistol by my both hands. slide Release leveR