Two methods of reduction for anterior dislocation of the shoulder were compared in 111 patients. Milch's technique was found to be atraumatic and relatively painless. Greater success with Milch's technique was experienced in patients under 40 years of age in whom the dislocation had been present for less than 4 hours. Milch's technique should be tried initially in patients fulfilling these criteria. In other cases Kocher's technique should be used first, especially in those of heavy build.