Reloading a handgun gets a lot of lip service. When, where, how, why, etc..
Once you start watching folks perform whatever techniques(s) they seem to favor, though, it can sometimes seem that actual practice may be a bit lacking.
At least I can put some emphasis on flashlight-techniques, now that I have figured out a big gap in my set of skills.
Been there, realized that ...
Add using a flashlight to the situation and things can really go downhill fast unless this has been anticipated and addressed with training.
I tend to favor a few variations of continuing to control the flashlight during reloading. Naturally, these are to some degree dependent on different circumstances, including how I'm dressed and what size flashlight I'm using at the time.
These variations generally involve using an armpit, pocket or waistband. The armpit & pocket variations seem to have been the most useful in the greatest variety of circumstances ...
in my experience.
I vary my training clothing to encompass the variety of clothing I may usually be wearing both on-duty (uniform & plainclothes) and off-duty, including in all manner of weather. I train to be able to perform reloading and flashlight retention under a variety of physical postures and manners of movement, and not just those involved when deliberately expecting and anticipating shooting (although they certainly receive reasonable emphasis during training & practice
).
I prefer to avoid becoming encumbered with things on lanyards or 'rings' while using small articles of equipment, but that's just a personal preference.
In my everyday assignment I'm frequently using one or another small flashlight when entering a residence or commercial building, sometimes 2-3 times within an hour. Different situations have arisen which have required that I be able to quickly and completely disencumber my flashlight hand. I have little way of anticipating the degree to which I may need to disencumber my flashlight hand, so I keep it simple. Dropping it in a sport/suit coat side pocket has been the fastest for my needs. Faster than reaching under a coat and trying to access a belt holster, anyway.
Yes, losing control of a flashlight is still an everyday possibility, especially when moving around outdoors. Doesn't mean I'm willing to have it hanging from my wrist or finger, though.
Balanced compromises and informed decisions ...
Balanced compromises have to be determined by each person.
Regardless of what technique, or techniques ... and equipment ... choices you make, remember that proper application, training & practice can 'make or break' their usefulness.
I can't count the number of bulbs which have failed, as well as both rechargeable & standard batteries which have failed ... and often in less than desirable circumstances.
As far as uniform assignment which involves wearing a type of small flashlight which is carried in a holster on the gun belt? (I know, I know, some folks nowadays prefer to call it an equipment belt, but I entered LE work back when Buscaderos were authorized.
) I'd offer one observation ...
I've seen more than one person who carried a flashlight on their 'off-side' (non-gun) reach for their flashlight instead of a spare magazine, or a belt-holstered folding knife, and that was just under the minimal stress of a range session. (FWIW, the lights don't fit in the magazine well) Imagine that person trying to momentarily store the flashlight in the belt holster, reach for a magazine to reload and then reach back for the flashlight (and not another magazine), all in the same approximate location on the gun belt ... under
real stress.
I'm not implying the location should change. After all, the user is still going to be reaching for, and using, the light with their non-gun hand, right?
Repetitive, proper training can hopefully help mitigate some potential problems, though. Don't reach for the wrong thing at the wrong time.
Now, being able to work with an experienced partner who is trained in the proper application and employment of flashlights is
really something to be appreciated, too.
. I know that's more extreme than a dangling light, but same principle.
.