Tom Gresham's GUNTALK - 3.15.15 Part A

Published on March 20, 2015
Duration: 44:45

This video provides critical safety instructions on how to handle a firearm that fails to fire, a situation known as a 'hang fire'. It emphasizes maintaining muzzle discipline, waiting a safe duration, and performing a thorough unloading procedure before ever inspecting the chamber. The advice comes from Tom Gresham, a seasoned firearms communicator.

Quick Summary

If your firearm fails to fire, never look down the barrel immediately. Keep the muzzle pointed downrange for at least 10 seconds to account for a potential 'hang fire.' Then, while still maintaining muzzle discipline, thoroughly unload the firearm by removing the magazine and cycling the action. Finally, perform a tactile chamber check by inserting a finger into the chamber to confirm it's empty.

Chapters

  1. 11:56Hang Fire Safety Introduction
  2. 12:10What is a Hang Fire?
  3. 12:33Procedure After a Misfire
  4. 13:00Chamber Check Technique
  5. 13:39Why Tactile Chamber Check is Important
  6. 14:04Experience and Safety Consciousness
  7. 14:22Avoiding Casualness in Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my firearm doesn't fire when I pull the trigger?

If your firearm fails to fire, it's crucial to treat it as a potential 'hang fire.' Keep the muzzle pointed downrange for at least 10 seconds. Then, while still maintaining muzzle discipline, completely unload the firearm by removing the magazine and cycling the action multiple times.

Why is it dangerous to look down the barrel after a misfire?

Looking down the barrel after a misfire is dangerous because of the possibility of a 'hang fire.' This is when the round delays detonation, potentially firing seconds or even minutes later. Looking down the barrel puts your face directly in the path of the projectile if it does fire.

How do I safely check the chamber of my firearm after a misfire?

After ensuring the firearm is unloaded (magazine removed, action cycled), keep the muzzle pointed downrange. Then, insert your pinky finger into the chamber to feel for a cartridge. This tactile check is vital, especially in low light, as visual inspection alone can sometimes be misleading.

Do experienced shooters become more casual with safety?

Contrary to what one might expect, experienced shooters who are serious about firearms safety tend to become more, not less, safety-conscious. This is often due to ongoing training and association with knowledgeable individuals, reinforcing good habits.

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