The pistols were loaded. We see them issued their weapons and ammunition as they enter the silo.
I think duckofprey is suggesting the following: Given that each missileer team are issued sidearms and ammunition when going on-duty for each shift, it is at least reasonable to consider the possibility that dummy ammunition (gunpowderless props that look and feel like authentic live rounds) could have been issued to test subjects to ensure safety during the exercise.
We can deduce that there were indeed preparations for a number of anticipated contingent responses from test subject missileers. For example, when ordered to contact the (missile) wing command post over the high frequency radio and then SAC (Strategic Air Command) over the direct line, 'Lieutenant Steve' (
Michael Madsen) was unable to get any response whatsoever. Unless this was a coincidence (very unlikely), the failure to be able to communicate with outside command was purposely pre-planned as part of the test. Therefore, it is reasonable to accept that dummy rounds could have been issued for safety, should a scenario occur like the one depicted during the first few minutes into the movie: "
Sir, we have a launch order . . . Put your hand on the key, sir. [
cocks and points his sidearm]
Sir, we are in launch, turn your key! Turn your key, sir!"
We can assume that this particular missileer team was part of the 22% who failed to launch their missiles: "
I'm sorry. I'm so sorry . . ." [
missileer captain removes his hand from the launch key, while the missileer lieutenant points his sidearm at the captain and threatens to shoot] We know that Lieutenant Steve did not successfully shoot 'Captain Jerry' (
John Spencer), given that both are seen later on in the movie helping to prepare the launch control capsule for remote operation, as part of McKittrick's plan to "take the men out of the loop." This supports duckofprey's supposition that [dummy ammunition rounds] may have been issued for missileer shifts during the test exercises.
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