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One thing I have learned, too, is to NEVER use the slide release to chamber a round. Use your other hand to pull the slide back and have it go in to battery. In a defensive situation, you lose valuable time trying to fidget around to release a slide that is in a locked position, when you can just pull the assembly back. I do this all the time now and have gotten it engrained in my head to the point that it is muscle memory.

As for the OP: training, training, training...it's about all I can say on that. I own quite a few firearms, but only train with one. My everyday carry...and if I ever have to use a rifle, I go to my AR as I know it inside and out (thanks Uncle Sam!!)