The New York Reload

The worst sound in a gunfight is a click without a bang following it. It means you are out of ammo or your gun has malfunctioned in some way. To the hardcore shooter, this is a situation we train for. We either execute a reload or clear the malfunction and get back in the fight. There is another option, however. It is a technique honed by hardcore believers in revolvers being used as backup guns. The technique is the New York reload.

The New York Reload – A Two Pistol Solution

The “New York Reload” concept is often heard in old-school firearms circles. It refers to switching to a second, fully loaded handgun instead of reloading the primary weapon. This technique is primarily associated with law enforcement officers and concealed carriers. While this practice might seem extreme to some, it has roots in real-world gunfighting tactics and has been used effectively in law enforcement and civilian self-defense scenarios.

The phrase “New York Reload” is believed to have originated from New York City, where undercover police officers and detectives carried multiple revolvers to compensate for the limitations of their six-shot primary weapons. When revolvers were the standard sidearm for law enforcement, reloading under stress was a slow process. Carrying a second (or even third) firearm provided a much faster alternative to reloading. Officers could stay in the fight if their primary gun ran empty.

Jim Cirillo

This practice was particularly favored by officers in high-crime areas, where armed confrontations were more likely. The legendary firearms instructor and law enforcement officer Jim Cirillo, a member of the New York Police Department’s elite Stakeout Squad, was known for advocating this tactic. His experiences in numerous gunfights reinforced the idea that in close-quarters engagements, time spent reloading could mean the difference between life and death.

The primary advantage of the New York Reload is speed. Even the most skilled shooter with a speed loader or magazine change can take a few seconds to reload their weapon. In contrast, drawing a second firearm can be accomplished in a fraction of that time. This advantage can be critical when bullets are flying and every millisecond counts. Another key benefit is redundancy. Firearms and magazines can malfunction. A second functional handgun readily available provides a fail-safe in case of an unexpected malfunction. This ensures that a shooter is not left defenseless due to a mechanical issue.

Still Effective Today

The tactic came to be at the height of law enforcement revolver use. However, it is still relevant. This is especially true for concealed carriers and law enforcement officers who may need to rely on a backup gun in case their primary handgun fails or runs empty. Many officers still carry backup guns in ankle holsters, pocket holsters, or even on their vests. This allows for an alternative should their primary weapon be lost, taken, or rendered inoperable.

For civilian concealed carriers, the feasibility of carrying a second firearm depends on multiple factors, including comfort and concealability. Some opt for a compact backup gun in case of emergencies, while others rely solely on a single handgun with extra magazines. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference, perceived threat level, and the ability to carry comfortably and discreetly.

Successfully executing a New York Reload requires training and practice. Simply carrying a second gun is not enough. You must be proficient in drawing and transitioning between firearms under stress. This means practicing smooth and efficient drawing techniques. You also need to ensure that the backup pistol is positioned in an accessible location.

While an ankle holster may be easier, you may find it slow to access. Find a place to carry where a backup makes sense. You need to train equally with both guns. The New York Reload can be a good tactic for those prioritizing speed. While modern designs have made reloading quicker and more efficient, the principle of having a backup gun remains solid.

As with any fighting strategy, training is key. Those considering this technique should invest time in practicing smooth transitions, maintaining skills with both firearms and understanding the challenges. While the technique is not a good fit for everyone, it is an option to consider. My suggestion is to try it and see what your results are.

Time yourself performing a reload and then again using a backup pistol. The technique was formed around use of revolvers, but a backup semi-automatic pistol will do the same job. Give it a spin and find out if you can save time and possibly your life.

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