Smyth Busters: Is It Safe To Carry With a Round in the Chamber?

Published on November 23, 2021
Duration: 8:00

Modern firearms from reputable manufacturers are generally safe to carry with a round in the chamber, debunking a common myth. Safety is primarily dependent on the quality of the firearm, a proper holster, and the user's training and adherence to safety protocols, rather than just the mechanical state of the chamber. Different firearm types like DA/SA, 1911s, and striker-fired pistols have specific safety considerations.

Quick Summary

Modern firearms from reputable manufacturers are generally safe to carry with a round in the chamber. Safety depends on the firearm's quality, a proper holster protecting the trigger, and the user's training, not just the chamber status.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Myth of Carrying Chambered
  2. 01:13DA/SA Pistols: Sig P226 Safety
  3. 01:49Older Designs: Walther P38 Safety
  4. 02:101911 Carry: Cocked and Locked
  5. 03:07Revolver Carry Safety
  6. 04:34Striker-Fired Pistols: Glock Safety
  7. 06:49Conclusion: Is it Safe?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to carry a pistol with a round in the chamber?

For modern firearms from reputable manufacturers, it is generally considered safe to carry with a round in the chamber. Safety primarily depends on the quality of the firearm, the use of a proper holster that protects the trigger, and the user's training and adherence to safety protocols.

What makes DA/SA pistols safe to carry chambered?

Double-action/single-action (DA/SA) pistols, like the Sig P226 Legion, are safe to carry with a round chambered and the hammer down. The heavy double-action pull required for the first shot acts as a mechanical safety, preventing accidental discharge unless the trigger is intentionally pulled.

How should older single-action revolvers be carried?

Older single-action revolvers that lack modern safety features like transfer bars should be carried with an empty chamber under the hammer. This 'load 5, skip 1' method ensures that if the revolver is dropped, the hammer won't strike a live round.

Are striker-fired pistols like Glocks safe to carry chambered?

Yes, striker-fired pistols such as Glocks are designed with redundant internal safeties that make them safe to carry with a round in the chamber. The striker is only partially cocked until the trigger is pulled, and a quality holster is crucial for protecting the trigger.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Brownells, Inc.

View all →