There has been considerable debate on the Small Arms forum about safety issues during the single-shot pistol team matches. While I have not participated in the team matches, I now shoot single-shot pistol in individuals. I feel a loading stand should be mandatory in all SSP matches. You can probably get custom-made stands designed specifically for SSP but there is a cheaper alternative. I've been using a plastic pistol rest made by MTM. This product was designed to bench rest handguns with an adjustable padded fork for the barrel but it can easily be used for loading too. All you do is invert the detachable base. The butt of the pistol rests in the base (trigger guard up) while the barrel rests on the extended fork at a 45 degree angle facing forward. It is easy and efficient to load the pistol while it remains stationary in this position.

In the interest of full disclosure, I am not employed by MTM nor have I received any compensation for this endorsement.

Jim Burgess, 15th CVI