Chiming in on an old post of Carlson's with another factor to consider. I can't think of any defensive handgun class I've ever taken that didn't include a mag exchange before reholstering. If the unthinkable happens, it's highly unlikely that you will count your rounds. And since we know bad guys often come in multiples, you should never assume the action is completely over just because you made it through the initial encounter.carlson1 wrote:It has been mentioned several times, but I think some are missing the more valid point. An extra magazine not only gives you extra rounds, but it's greater purpose serves as a "quick fix" for a malfunction.
Making it a habit to perform a reload-with-retention after every practice CoF--even dry-fire--can help ensure that, if the time ever comes, you won't have to think about it and will never holster a partially-emptied gun. Besides, gives you more reloading practice.
Like others, for me the number and location of spare mags will vary depending upon what I'm carrying. My most-often carry is a 1911 IWB at three o'clock, and I carry two spare mags, also IWB in a leather holder, at 8:00. If dress allows me only a pocket pistol, then I'll have one spare mag in a pocket on the opposite side. But I can't remember the last time I left the house without at least one extra magazine.