How to Safely De-cock a Double Action Handgun - Beretta, CZ-75, S&W etc Carry/Reholster

Published on April 26, 2022
Duration: 4:23

This guide details the safe procedures for decocking various double-action handguns, including those with integrated decockers and those requiring manual hammer manipulation. It emphasizes maintaining control of the hammer and the importance of releasing the trigger before fully lowering the hammer to re-engage internal safeties, preventing negligent discharges.

Quick Summary

Safely decocking a double-action handgun is crucial for carry. For models with integrated decockers, simply use the lever. For those without, manually lower the hammer by covering it with your thumb, pulling the trigger slightly, releasing the trigger, and then lowering the hammer to half-cock to re-engage safeties.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Decocking
  2. 00:06Beretta 92A1 Decocker
  3. 00:40CZ-75D Compact Decocker Differences
  4. 01:10Handguns Without Integrated Decockers
  5. 01:53Safe Manual Hammer Lowering Technique
  6. 02:25Unsafe Hammer Lowering Method
  7. 02:48Decocking Double Action Revolvers (S&W M36)
  8. 03:05Revolver Decocking Procedure
  9. 03:30Unsafe Revolver Decocking
  10. 03:58Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest way to manually decock a double-action handgun without an integrated decocker?

To safely decock, cover the hammer with your thumb, pull the trigger to let the hammer move forward slightly, release the trigger, and then carefully lower the hammer to the half-cock position. This re-engages internal safeties.

Why is holding the trigger to the rear while decocking a loaded firearm dangerous?

Holding the trigger to the rear disables the firearm's internal safeties, such as the firing pin block. If the hammer slips during this process, it can directly strike the primer, leading to an accidental discharge.

How do decocking mechanisms differ between a Beretta 92A1 and a CZ-75D Compact?

The Beretta 92A1 has a straightforward slide-mounted decocker. The CZ-75D Compact's decocker must be depressed fully until a tactile notch is engaged before releasing, resulting in the hammer going to half-cock rather than fully down.

What specific safety precautions should be taken when decocking a double-action revolver?

When decocking a revolver, always cover the hammer with your thumb. After decocking, be mindful of cylinder rotation and keep track of which chambers have been fired to ensure safe handling.

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