A pistol slide racking tool has a main body with a threaded passageway through its upper section. Tapered lateral arm members extend from the upper section. Tapered attachment pads are located adjacent to each arm member. A shaft threadably engages the passageway through the main body. The shaft is connected to a handle at one end and, at the opposite end of the shaft, is in contact with a mid-linkage member located in the passageway. In order to rack the slide, the attachment pads are positioned adjacent to the sides of the slide. The shaft is rotated to move the mid-linkage member and attachment pads forward such that they are tight against the slide. Movement of the handle in the direction away from the pistol then racks the slide.