Which sequence correctly describes the basic steps to clear the M9 pistol?

Which sequence correctly describes the basic steps to clear the M9 pistol?

• A. Remove magazine; slide to rear and lock; visually inspect chamber; release slide forward; reinsert magazine; rack to ensure clear.
• B. Magazine out; slide to rear and lock; visually inspect chamber; release slide forward; reinsert magazine; rack to ensure clear.
• C. Engage safety; pull trigger; release magazine.
• D. Remove magazine; open action; spray solvent.

Answer: (B)

Clearing the M9 safely starts with making the weapon incapable of feeding a round and then verifying the chamber is empty. The proper sequence is to remove the magazine so no new rounds can be chambered, lock the slide to the rear so you can see into the chamber, visually inspect the chamber to confirm it’s empty, release the slide forward so the action closes, reinsert the magazine, and finally rack the slide to ensure there is no cartridge remaining in the chamber. This order guarantees you clearly verify the chamber is clear before you put the pistol away or handle it further. The other actions don’t provide a reliable chamber check: engaging a safety and pulling the trigger could still present a hazard if there’s a round in the chamber, and spraying solvent or opening the action is maintenance rather than clearing.

Clearing the M9 safely starts with making the weapon incapable of feeding a round and then verifying the chamber is empty. The proper sequence is to remove the magazine so no new rounds can be chambered, lock the slide to the rear so you can see into the chamber, visually inspect the chamber to confirm it’s empty, release the slide forward so the action closes, reinsert the magazine, and finally rack the slide to ensure there is no cartridge remaining in the chamber. This order guarantees you clearly verify the chamber is clear before you put the pistol away or handle it further.

The other actions don’t provide a reliable chamber check: engaging a safety and pulling the trigger could still present a hazard if there’s a round in the chamber, and spraying solvent or opening the action is maintenance rather than clearing.