Dear Editor,
I’ve noticed Soldiers are having trouble loading the magazine into their new M17 and M18 pistols after reassembly. In pretty much every case, it’s because the slide hasn’t been locked to the rear.
The M9 pistol didn’t need the slide locked to the rear, so the confusion is understandable.
With the new M17s and M18s, you first have to lock the slide to the rear, and then press the side catch lever to release it. Lifting up the slide catch lever locks the slide to the rear and allows the takedown safety lever to move back into the forward position to clear the magazine well.
This quick and simple action of locking the slide to the rear allows magazine insertion.
Takedown safety lever in the forward position to clear the magazine well
You’ll find this troubleshooting procedure in WP 0010-4 of TM 9-1005-470-10 (Mar 19).
Also, NCOs should make sure their Soldiers understand the differences between assembling the M17/M18 and the M9.
Scott Taylor
Ft Benning, GA
Editor’s Note:
Good tip from you, Scott. Thanks!