There are 2 types of reloads you will be taught on this basic firearms course. An emergency reload, Combat/Optional reload.

 

Emergency reload:

Also known as a speed reload, this is where the firearm has completely run out of ammunition and the slide has locked to the rear. This reload is performed when the operator still requires rounds to be fired down range. This reload is performed by dropping the empty magazine on the floor while at the same time placing a new magazine in the magwell and releasing the slide to place a new round in the chamber.

 

Optional / Combat reload or Tack reload:

This reload is used when the operator has the option too and requires a full magazine while always having a round in the chamber ready to fire. This is commonly known as a top up. This type of reload is slower than an emergency reload as you are not dropping the first magazine on the floor as there is still ammunition in the magazine. The magazine you are replacing gets stored on your body or in your dump pouch. There is no need to rack the slide during an optional reload.

 

Rifle & Pistol

Both types of reload are performed the same regardless of firearm type, both pistols and rifles reload in the same process.