Flynt
Member
I've heard the term "press check," in relation to 1911's and other semi-autos, and if I understand correctly, it means to pull the slide back a little to visually check and see if there's a round in the chamber. I've noticed that classic govt. model 1911's have grooves toward the back of the slide, and I use those to check the chamber. However, I also have a Kimber with grooves near the back and the front of the slide. I understand the front grooves are for press checking, but I don't understand their benefit. If I retract the slide using the front grooves, it seems a lot more awkward, plus my hand and wrist can block the view.