Safety Lever- Does it Make the Gun Safer?

Published on August 22, 2022
Duration: 15:45

This video from Geauga Firearms Academy explains the function and necessity of firearm safety levers. Instructors Kim and Neil differentiate between single-action-only (SAO) pistols, like the 1911, which require manual safeties due to their light triggers, and modern striker-fired pistols that often have built-in safeties making manual levers optional. They emphasize that for optional safeties, consistent practice is paramount to ensure they become second nature, otherwise, they can be a liability. The video also covers grip safeties and highlights potential design flaws that could impede functionality under stress.

Quick Summary

Firearm safety levers are essential for Single Action Only (SAO) pistols like the 1911 due to their light triggers and cocked hammers, preventing accidental discharge. For modern striker-fired firearms, manual safety levers are often optional, as they incorporate built-in safeties. Consistent practice is vital if using an optional safety lever; otherwise, it can become a liability under stress.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Safety Lever Question
  2. 00:11What are Safety Levers?
  3. 00:40The 1911: Single Action Only Pistol
  4. 01:05Single Action vs. Double Action Explained
  5. 02:00Why SAO Pistols Need Safeties
  6. 02:14The 1911 Trigger: Light and Crisp
  7. 03:23Holstering Safety with SAO Pistols
  8. 04:27Optional Safety Levers on Other Pistols
  9. 04:34M&P 9 2.0: Optional Safety Example
  10. 05:04Removable Safety Lever Component
  11. 06:05Built-in Safeties on Modern Firearms
  12. 06:16Hinged Trigger System (S&W M&P)
  13. 07:03Internal Safety Plunger Explained
  14. 08:37Why Levers Aren't Always Needed
  15. 09:03The Danger of Over-Reliance on Safeties
  16. 09:56Range Practice vs. Real-Life Scenarios
  17. 11:38Grip Safeties: 1911 and XDm
  18. 12:29Problematic Grip Safety Design (S&W EZ)
  19. 14:02Conclusion: What Makes a Gun Safe?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all firearms need a safety lever?

No, not all firearms require a manual safety lever. Single Action Only (SAO) pistols like the 1911, due to their light triggers and cocked hammers, generally need them for safe carry. However, many modern striker-fired pistols have sufficient built-in safeties, making manual levers optional and often a matter of user preference.

What is the difference between single action and double action triggers?

In a single-action trigger, the trigger only performs one job: releasing the hammer. In a double-action trigger, the trigger performs two jobs: cocking the hammer and then releasing it with a single pull. This makes double-action triggers typically heavier and longer than single-action triggers.

Can a safety lever make a gun less safe?

Yes, a safety lever can become a liability if not used consistently. If a shooter doesn't practice engaging and disengaging the safety regularly, they may forget to disengage it under stress, preventing the firearm from firing when needed. This is why consistent practice is crucial if you choose to use a manual safety.

What are the benefits of a grip safety?

Grip safeties are passive safety features that require the shooter's hand to compress them for the firearm to discharge. This design prevents accidental firing if the gun is dropped or if the trigger is bumped without a proper grip, and it doesn't require conscious thought to engage as it's part of the natural shooting grip.

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