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In a dynamic critical incident, managing your firearm effectively is paramount. While high-speed “emergency” reloads (empty gun reloads) are often discussed, there’s another vital technique that deserves your attention: the retention reload, often referred to as a “tactical” reload. At Willapa Firearms Training (www.willapafirearmstraining.com), we emphasize a comprehensive approach to firearm proficiency, and understanding when and how to perform a retention reload is a crucial part of that skillset.

So, what exactly is a retention reload, and when would you use it? Imagine you’ve fired a few rounds during a confrontation, and there’s a temporary lull in the threat – perhaps you’ve moved behind cover. You know you might need those rounds later, but you also have a fresh magazine available. A retention reload allows you to swap out a partially empty magazine for a full one while retaining the partial magazine for potential future use.¹ Think of it like topping off your gas tank before tackling a long mountain pass where gas stations are scarce. You might not be empty, but having a full tank provides a significant advantage.

The “When”: Recognizing the Opportunity

The key to a successful retention reload is recognizing the opportunity. This is not a speed drill done under direct threat. It’s performed when:

• There is a temporary pause in the threat: You have a moment where you are not actively engaging.
• You are preferably behind cover: This provides a safer environment to manipulate your firearm.
• You have a spare magazine readily accessible.
• You anticipate the potential for further engagement.

Attempting a retention reload under direct threat is generally ill-advised, as it takes time and focus away from the immediate danger. That’s where the emergency reload comes into play – a topic for another time.

The “How”: Multiple Options for Your Workspace

At Willapa Firearms Training, we believe in providing options, allowing you to find the techniques that best suit your individual needs and physical capabilities. Here are three methods for performing a retention reload, focusing on utilizing your personal “workspace” – the area around your body where you can safely manipulate your firearm:

1. At the Belt:

• Ensure you have a spare magazine accessible.
• Safely remove the partially empty magazine from your firearm.
• Secure the partial magazine in a designated location – this could be an empty magazine pouch, tucked into your waistband, or even a pocket. The goal is to keep it accessible.
• Insert a fresh magazine into your firearm, ensuring it is fully seated.
• Reassess your surroundings and be ready to address any continuing threat.

2. At the Gun – Cigar Grip:

• Draw a fresh magazine from your carrier and hold it in your support hand, positioned like a cigar between your index and middle fingers.³
• Simultaneously release the partially empty magazine from your firearm, catching it in the same support hand between your thumb and index finger.⁴
• Insert the fresh magazine into the magazine well.
• Stow the partial magazine in a secure and accessible location, similar to the “at the belt” method.
• Reacquire your grip and scan for threats.

3. At the Gun – L Grip:

• Draw a fresh magazine and hold it in your support hand in an “L” shape, with your palm facing the magazine well.
• Release the partially empty magazine, allowing it to fall into your support hand.
• Use the palm of your support hand to forcefully drive the fresh magazine into the magazine well.
• Secure the partial magazine as in the previous methods.
• Re-establish your grip and scan.

See it in Action:

To further illustrate these techniques, take a look at this short video from our YouTube channel demonstrating each method:

Find Your Fit and Practice Diligently

We encourage you to try all three of these retention reload techniques. Experiment to see which one feels the most natural, efficient, and secure for you. Once you’ve identified your preferred method, the real work begins: practice.

Start slowly, focusing on each step and ensuring you are performing it correctly. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase your speed. The goal is to build a strong neural pathway, allowing you to perform the retention reload smoothly and efficiently without having to consciously think through each step. This frees up your mental focus to remain on the critical task of situational awareness and threat assessment.

At Willapa Firearms Training, we are dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be a safe and proficient firearm owner. Visit our website at www.willapafirearmstraining.com to learn more about our comprehensive training courses. Mastering the retention reload is just one piece of the puzzle in developing a well-rounded defensive skillset. We hope to see you on the range!