[algol]

No, you're not racking the slide with the intent of scaring the thug, that's just a beneficial side effect of doing it anyway.

Why do you want the element of surprise? That only makes sense if you're expecting an assassin and want to get him before he gets you. Or do really want to kill some burglar instead of just scaring him off? (I admit there's a certain satisfaction in contemplating that, but in reality the paperwork probably isn't worth it.)

Oh, and if you're fumbling with loading the weapon, you haven't practised enough.

[Noslrac]

I apologize my comment sounded just like you took it. However, the more control you can have over the situation the better off you are. I would rather be aiming at said perp ready to go and then identify him and inform him he has a decision to make than have to deal with racking a slide no matter how fast it is going be. One reason, If you rack the slide, and chuck a round out, you just gave yourself one less round to shoot. If you just rack a round in from the mag, you still aren't to your fullest capacity. If you are going put a round in then rack you may be slow. Remember you are going to be in a very stressful situation, not knowing exactly whats going on, possibly just out of a deep sleep. I understand your reasoning for racking the slide, I just don't agree that it is the best idea.