Is Your Pistol Drop Safe?

Published on August 4, 2024
Duration: 25:57

This video provides an expert-level analysis of modern pistol drop safety, featuring extensive testing by firearms instructor Mike Jones. It details the results of dropping various popular handguns, including the Sig Sauer P320, Glock 17 Gen 3, and Beretta M9A4, onto concrete from chest height. The testing methodology highlights the importance of safety features and design in preventing accidental discharges after a drop, with specific attention paid to striker-fired versus hammer-fired mechanisms and the impact of manual safeties.

Quick Summary

Firearms expert Mike Jones demonstrates that most modern striker-fired pistols, such as the Sig Sauer P320 and Glock 17 Gen 3, are highly drop-safe. However, 1911/2011 platforms may fire if dropped muzzle-down with the manual safety disengaged due to firing pin inertia.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Skit
  2. 02:49Testing Methodology
  3. 04:05Initial Testing: Beretta and S&W
  4. 05:512011 and 1911 Failures
  5. 07:39Sig Sauer Series Testing
  6. 12:28Glock and PSA Testing
  7. 14:35CZ, Walther, and HK Testing
  8. 20:39Archon Type B and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Are modern striker-fired pistols drop safe?

Yes, most modern striker-fired pistols, including popular models like the Sig Sauer P320, Glock 17 Gen 3, and PSA Dagger, are highly drop-safe. Extensive testing shows they can withstand drops from chest height onto concrete without accidental discharge, demonstrating inherent design safety.

Which pistol designs are most susceptible to firing after a drop?

Traditional hammer-fired designs like the 1911 and 2011 platforms (e.g., Staccato XC, Nighthawk Custom Sandhawk) are more susceptible to firing upon impact when dropped muzzle-down with the manual safety disengaged. This is often due to firing pin inertia.

Does the Sig Sauer P320 pass drop tests?

Yes, extensive testing confirms that various Sig Sauer P320 models, including the M17 and P365 XMacro, pass multiple drop tests in different orientations without firing. This contradicts some historical internet claims about their drop safety.

What is the recommended testing method for pistol drop safety?

A common and safe method involves using primed brass cases (no powder or projectile) and dropping the pistol from chest height (4-5 feet) onto a concrete surface. Testing should be conducted in various orientations (muzzle-down, rear-impact, etc.) to simulate different scenarios.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Garand Thumb

View all →