If you’re an EDC practitioner, you know the importance of being prepared for any situation. Carrying a firearm for self-defense is a significant step towards personal protection, but it’s not enough to stop there. The question that comes up frequently in the South African context is “should I carry a spare magazine?” The answer is a resounding yes.

The two main objections to carrying a spare magazine are, “it’s uncomfortable or takes up too much space” and “the average gunfight in South Africa takes only a few rounds.”

Let’s address the first objection. If you have gone through the trouble of carrying a firearm, carrying a spare magazine should not be a problem. Finding a comfortable magazine carrier is easy, and you can find one that’s so comfortable that you forget you have it on. With the rising crime rate in South Africa, it’s hard to imagine not having enough space for an extra magazine.

As for the second objection, it’s a dangerous assumption to make that all gunfights in South Africa take only a few rounds. The reality is that you never know how many rounds you might need. We don’t live in a perfect world, and even the most careful gun owners can find themselves in a dangerous situation. Statistics may show that the average gunfight takes only a few rounds, but you don’t want to be caught off-guard. It’s better to be prepared for the worst-case scenario than to be caught with your guard down.

Another reason why carrying a spare magazine is essential is malfunctions. Handguns can break, and magazines fail more often than guns. If your magazine fails, and you don’t have a spare, you’re essentially helpless. A spare magazine gives you peace of mind and the ability to continue to defend yourself.

In South Africa, where gun violence is prevalent, it’s crucial to be prepared for any situation. Recently, there was a nationally reported shooting incident where an officer had to ditch his rifle because it lacked a magazine. He had to draw his sidearm instead, which is less effective than a rifle. Having a spare magazine would have allowed him to continue using his rifle, which could have made a significant difference in the outcome of the situation.

In conclusion, carrying a spare magazine is a wise choice for anyone who carries a firearm for self-defense in South Africa. It’s not a matter of “if” you will need a spare magazine, but “when.” How many spares you need is a matter for another discussion, but having at least one spare magazine is a must. Remember, it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.