A slide stop, sometimes referred to as a slide lock or slide release, on a

semi-automatic handgun A semi-automatic pistol is a type of repeating single-chamber handgun ( pistol) that automatically cycles its action to insert the subsequent cartridge into the chamber (self-loading), but requires manual actuation of the trigger to actuall ...

is a function that visually indicates when a handgun has expended all loaded ammunition and facilitates faster reloading by pulling back the

slide Slide or Slides may refer to: Places *Slide, California, former name of Fortuna, California Arts, entertainment, and media Music Albums * ''Slide'' (Lisa Germano album), 1998 * ''Slide'' (George Clanton album), 2018 *''Slide'', by Patrick Glees ...

or depressing the slide lock to advance the first round of a new magazine.

Description

The various terms relate to the two functions of the component: while it automatically catches the slide (''locking'' it back) after the magazine's last round has been fired, thereby allowing the user to easily ''release'' the slide by pulling down on the switch, it also allows the user to purposefully ''stop'' or ''lock'' the slide back by pressing up on the switch while racking the slide. Some manufactures recommend using the slide lock as a release, others recommend racking the slide. Using the slide lock as a release can accelerate wear in some models. File:slidestop.jpg, Slide stop in its "up" position, locking the

of this Glock pistol in its "back" position. Pressing down the switch releases the slide to spring forward. File:slidestop2.jpg, Slide stop (with mechanism exposed, larger circle) and corresponding notch in slide, which catches the slide stop. Firearm components {{Pistol-stub