Page 841 - Complete Krav maga : the ultimate guide to over 250 self-defense and combative techniques

The Weapon
Handguns, which come in many shapes, sizes and types, appear in all scenarios
presented here. For this book, there is some value in making a distinction
between a semiautomatic handgun and a revolver. While revolvers still

outnumber semiautomatics in the U.S., those numbers are narrowing.

It’s recommended that if you’re training to defend against handgun threats, you
should have at least a cursory knowledge of the different types of handguns and
how handguns work.

A semiautomatic has a “slide” on the top of the gun that loads a round (bullet)
into the chamber in preparation for the next shot. When held, the slide will not
function properly, likely preventing a new round from being loaded and perhaps
causing the weapon to malfunction. This is significant if the defender, once
making the takeaway, chooses to use the weapon. It will be necessary to “tap and
rack,” or load another round by clearing the chamber.

Semiautomatic handgun

Note: If there is already a round in the chamber, holding the slide will NOT
affect that round or prevent it from firing.

A revolver has a cylinder, instead of a slide, that prepares the next round for
firing. When held, the cylinder will not turn, preventing a new round from
moving into place. This will not cause a malfunction in the revolver. Note: If the
revolver is already cocked and loaded, holding the cylinder will NOT keep it
from firing that round.