How Much Extra Ammo?

by
posted on July 10, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wilson2015_fs.jpg (20)

A respected defensive instructor of my acquaintance recently posted a brief, but well-written essay regarding carrying extra defensive ammunition. He pointed out several reasons why extra ammo might be needed, such as having a firearms malfunction, a faulty magazine or faulty ammunition. He ended by suggesting that, assuming that one is carrying a defensive handgun of adequate caliber, one extra reload was all that was needed.

What was interesting was the assortment of replies that he got from readers. Quite a few, if they are to be believed, swore they carried enough ammo on their person to require a small bank loan. One guy said that he carries a 1911 on his hip, two extra magazines in a double belt pouch and four more magazines in his hip pockets!

I suspect, though no one will ever admit it, that a lot of these guys are loaded down with extra ammo because they know—in their heart of hearts—they have never taken the time to acquire proper marksmanship skills. Nor have they taken the time or made the effort to get good professional training. They make up for these inadequacies by loading themselves down with guns and ammunition. Folks, it ain't what you carry. It's what you can do with what you carry.

It seems extremely unlikely that an armed citizen would require more than one reload. If you have emptied your pistol, twice, and still have people shooting at you, wouldn't it be time to beat feet? The rest of us would know by then that your marksmanship stinks, and would begin to have serious concerns about your tactics, too.

If you know of a case where an armed citizen was forced to reload more than once, I'd appreciate it if you would share it with us. I'd like to investigate it. In the meantime, I'd have to say that these folks who preach carrying lots of ammo need to take a long, hard look at their personal defense plan.

Latest

SIG Sauer Eikonic knives
SIG Sauer Eikonic knives

First Look: New Knives from SIG Sauer And Eikonic

Ten different models are now available.

First Look: Ruger LCP Max With Thumb Safety

Add a little more peace of mind to a popular pocket pistol.

I Carry: Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 9mm Pistol in a Galco Holster

In this special Independence Day episode of "I Carry," we have the new Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 pistol carried in a Galco Concealable 2.0 Belt Holster along with a Galco SB& Fancy Stitched Belt and Double Magazine Carrier.

First Look: Viktos Counteract 15 CCW Backpack

Built from the ground up for everyday carry.

Ruger Acquires Anderson Manufacturing

Ruger will integrate Anderson’s capabilities into its broader operations.

Review: Sunshine Safety Emergency Medical Gear

Because there's more than one way to be your own first responder.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.