If you regularly shoot a semi-automatic handgun, you can almost guarantee that at some point, you will experience a firearm malfunction. Handguns are intricate machines composed of numerous moving parts. Each time a firearm is discharged, these components endure an intense explosion that can generate internal pressures exceeding 50,000 psi.
Although modern firearms are extensively tested and highly reliable, mechanical failures can still occur due to repeated use. Proper maintenance, quality ammunition with appropriate grain, and correct shooting techniques can minimize the likelihood of malfunctions, but even with strict adherence to best practices, stoppages are inevitable.
A knowledgeable shooter understands their firearm, learns from past issues, and can anticipate potential failures to resolve them quickly. For those in self-defense situations, the ability to rapidly address malfunctions can mean the difference between life and death. Even in recreational shooting, malfunctions can be frustrating and, at times, hazardous.
Knowledge is power. Below are three of the most common handgun malfunctions and how to deal with them effectively.
1. Hangfire
Typically, when a shooter pulls the trigger, the hammer or firing pin strikes the primer, and the round fires almost instantly. However, in some cases, a delay occurs between pulling the trigger and the actual discharge—this is known as a hangfire.
Hangfires are dangerous because the ignition process has already started within the cartridge, even if the round does not fire immediately. This delayed reaction can range from nanoseconds to several seconds, eventually leading to an unexpected discharge.
Causes of Hangfire
Hangfires may result from:
Worn-out or defective firing pin springs.
A weak strike on the primer due to an improperly functioning firing pin assembly.
Poor-quality or defective ammunition.
Dirty primer rims or corroded rounds.
Although modern ammunition manufacturing has significantly reduced the likelihood of hangfires, they can still occur, especially with old or improperly stored rounds.
What to Do if You Experience a Hangfire
Always assume the firearm may discharge at any moment.
KEEP THE FIREARM POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.
Do not pull the trigger again or attempt to disassemble the firearm while waiting.
• • Remain patient. Hold the firearm steady for at least 60 seconds to ensure the round will not fire unexpectedly.
2. Misfire
A misfire occurs when a shooter pulls the trigger, but the round fails to discharge due to an ignition failure in the primer or gunpowder.
Causes of Misfire
Misfires can result from the same issues that cause hangfires, including defective primers, weak firing pin strikes, or contaminated ammunition. While a misfire alone is not inherently dangerous, misfires can be mistaken for hangfires, leading to hazardous handling of the firearm.
What to Do if You Experience a Misfire
Since you cannot immediately determine whether a misfire is actually a hangfire, follow these steps:
Treat every misfire as if it is a hangfire. Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction for at least 60 seconds.
After waiting, remove the magazine (or open the cylinder for revolvers).
Lock the slide back and clear the chamber.
Inspect the round for indentations on the primer, damage, or unusual wear.
If misfires occur frequently with a specific type of ammunition, consider switching to a more reliable brand.
Defective ammunition should not be discarded improperly. Instead, consult the manufacturer or seek guidance from a local shooting range on safe disposal.
3. Squib Load (Bullet Stuck in the Barrel)
While less common than hangfires or misfires, squib loads are extremely dangerous. A squib load occurs when a fired round fails to generate enough force to propel the bullet through the barrel, causing it to become lodged inside.
If a squib load is not immediately identified and another round is fired behind it, catastrophic damage to the firearm and severe injury to the shooter can occur.
Causes of Squib Load
Squib loads can result from:
Insufficient or missing gunpowder in the cartridge.
Improperly crimped or defectively manufactured rounds.
A faulty primer ignition.
A cracked or weakened casing.
Residual barrel obstructions from previous rounds.
How to Identify a Squib Load
Squib loads can be difficult to detect, especially in fast-paced or high-adrenaline shooting scenarios. However, some indicators include:
A softer “pop” sound instead of the usual sharp gunshot.
Noticeably reduced recoil compared to other shots.
A small puff of smoke emerging from the muzzle or ejection port.
The firearm failing to cycle properly.
What to Do if You Suspect a Squib Load
STOP SHOOTING IMMEDIATELY.
KEEP THE FIREARM POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.
Wait for a few seconds to rule out a delayed hangfire.
Remove the magazine and clear the chamber.
Disassemble the firearm (if possible) and check for obstructions by looking through the barrel.
If a bullet is lodged in the barrel, do not attempt to fire another round. Use a brass rod or a specialized range tool to carefully dislodge the bullet, following the rifling pattern to avoid damaging the barrel.
If extraction is difficult, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith.
Summary
Even experienced shooters encounter these common firearm malfunctions. If you are a beginner, the most important thing is to remain calm and handle each malfunction safely.
Knowing how to identify and resolve these issues ensures both your safety and the safety of those around you. Always practice proper firearm handling and be prepared for potential malfunctions before they occur.
Author:
Dr. Selçuk Aksak
Atıcılık Sporları Eğitmeni &Antrenör
IDPA CSO, Gunsmith
Burkut Academy
Kaynak: Minuteman Review, Alice Jones (May 5, 2023.)
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