Is there a "proper" way to manipulate the slide on a semi-automatic pistol?

This is for a personally owned weapon, right? Well if you want to avoid the issue of slides in the first place, go with a revolver. If you insist on a semi-auto, here are a couple of hints:

A: To rack the slide use opposing force. i.e. push this pistol frame forward with your dominant hand holding the grip and push the slide in the opposite direction with the off-hand. Easier than pulling the slide back.

B: To release the slide after is has locked back you can do one of two things:

1: If you are in the proper tow hand grip, your support hand thumb will be resting along the side of the slide/frame approximately where the release is at. Use your thumb to trip it. If you are having trouble, the release may be too short and you'll need to replace it with a longer one.

2: If you don't want to mess with the slide release, the second way is to "sling-shot" the slide. That is, after you insert the fresh mag, pull the slide back slightly with your support hand. It won't take very much force to disengage the hold-open catch and the slide will slide forward.

What did you do to get such a nasty problem with your hand? Deploying isn't worth permanent damage and if you are still that bad, then your doc isn't going to clear you (unless they aren't aware of it). No shortcuts or cheating on range day. Trying to do McGyver stuff could lead to accidental discharge or worse.

A .380 is a very decent small handgun. That's what .007 carries.....lol