KABOOMS!!! Causes and How to Prevent Them.

Published on September 22, 2017
Duration: 9:47

This guide, based on insights from a firearms instructor with over 40 years of experience, details the primary causes of firearm 'kabooms' (barrel separation or catastrophic failure) and how to prevent them. The two main culprits identified are overloaded ammunition and obstructed barrels, often caused by squib loads or excessive fouling. The instructor emphasizes the importance of responsible handloading practices and diligent firearm maintenance, including regular barrel cleaning and inspection.

Quick Summary

Firearm 'kabooms' are primarily caused by overloaded ammunition exceeding safe pressure limits and obstructed barrels, often from 'squib loads' or excessive fouling. To prevent them, avoid over-powering your hand-loaded ammo, stop shooting if a round sounds weak, and meticulously clean your barrel after every use.

Chapters

  1. 00:11Introduction: The Smith & Wesson 500 Kaboom
  2. 01:12Two Main Causes of Kabooms
  3. 01:32Cause 1: Overloaded Ammunition
  4. 02:13Ruger vs. Smith & Wesson Pressure Limits
  5. 03:38Cause 2: Obstructed Barrels
  6. 03:50Squib Loads Explained
  7. 05:20Partial Barrel Obstructions from Fouling
  8. 06:18Preventing Barrel Obstructions: Cleaning
  9. 07:15Importance of Barrel Inspection
  10. 07:48Summary of Prevention Methods

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common causes of firearm 'kabooms'?

The two primary causes of firearm 'kabooms' are overloaded ammunition, where hand-loaded rounds exceed safe pressure limits, and obstructed barrels. Obstructed barrels can result from 'squib loads' where a bullet lodges in the barrel, or from excessive fouling due to poor maintenance.

How can I prevent a firearm from 'kabooms'?

To prevent kabooms, avoid overloading your ammunition by strictly adhering to manufacturer load data. If you suspect a squib load, stop shooting immediately and inspect your barrel. Regularly clean your firearm's barrel to remove fouling that can constrict the bore.

What is a 'squib load' and why is it dangerous?

A 'squib load' is an underpowered ammunition round where the bullet doesn't have enough force to exit the barrel. This leaves a dangerous obstruction. Firing a subsequent round into a barrel containing a lodged bullet can cause extreme pressure buildup, leading to a catastrophic firearm failure.

Is it safe to continue shooting if a round sounds weak?

No, it is not safe to continue shooting if a round sounds weak or has significantly reduced recoil. This often indicates a 'squib load' where the bullet may be lodged in the barrel. You must stop firing and inspect the barrel for obstructions before proceeding.

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