New Shooter Semi Auto Handgun Outline 3-23

Introduction to Handgun Malfunction and Corrective Action

The handgun owner should have a clear understanding knowledge of handgun operation and shooting skills. They are:

Normal operating skills Normal Shooting skills Emergency skills (fail to function and fail to fire)

The semi auto and the revolver each have their own set of operating characteristics and possible failure to operate and fire. The failures can be placed into three categories 1) the shooter 2) the handgun 3) ammunition Sometimes it can be a combination of two or three that creates the problem. The semi auto, due to its fundamental operation, comes with its own unique issues that can create a real challenge and possible danger if not recognized and corrected in a timely manner. These are called Immediate Action Drills (IAD). Action must be immediately taken to correct the malfunction and return fire. These drills are practiced that create an immediate response that corrects the problem. Failure to recognize and correct can create a safety issue at the range too the possibility of the fatal loss of a self-defense gun fight at home or on the street. The good news is that modern semi auto handguns offer reliable operation if cleaned, maintained and the owner is well trained. The use of snap caps will help in the practice of safe normal and emergency mechanical operation skills necessary to master the semi auto handgun. Snap Caps are used in firearms for the following reasons: • Protects the firing pin system during dry fire practice • Practice loading and unloading handgun. • To practice fail to fire drills. • To practice the mechanics of immediate action drills. • To help identify handgun shooting errors such as flinching, and trigger pull errors. • Are used in place of live rounds to practice handgun operation in a non-range environment. • To help identify handgun shooting errors such as flinching, and trigger pull errors. • Are used in place of live rounds to practice handgun operation in a non-range environment