This type of gun can be hard to cock and can also result in safety problems if it is pointed to the sides when cocking instead of down-range. If possible, place the butt on a table or bench in front of you and push the slide down using the table to take the strain. Keep the pistol pointing down-range at all times. As someone said above, a cycling or weightlifting glove protects the hand against sharp edges. A strongly fitted red-dot or small scope also makes this style of gun easier to cock.