New Shooter Semi Auto Handgun Outline

Types of ammunition loads • Reloads - Target Only

• Standard Factory New - Self Defense/ Target • +P Higher performance / more cylinder pressure • +P+ Very high performance / much more cylinder pressure

Semiauto is ammunition sensitive • Shoot at least 25 rds. to assure operation • If you change gun or ammo must test again • Jacket hollow points feed better

Important cartridge Considerations • Cartridge length

• Shape of projectile • Velocity and energy • Weight of bullet

Care of ammunition • Solvents/Cleaning fluids can deactivate primers • Keep dry - away from extreme heat - change defense ammo year

Ammunition Malfunctions 1. Misfire. A failure of the primer to ignite the powder . A misfire is not dangerous, as long as that’s all it is. However, keep the firearm down range and on target for ten seconds in the event it is a “hangfire”. 2. Hangfire A delayed detonation of the primer. A hangfire can be dangerous in revolvers and pistols. They will typically discharge within 4 seconds but holding your firearm on target for 10 seconds will make certain the misfire is not a hangfire. This type of malfunction occurs with older ammunition or ammunition that has been tampered with or cleaned with solvents or oil. 3. Squib. A cartridge which is missing the powder or does not ignite properly. The symptom is a cap pistol type sound, and no recoil. When this happens, enough gas is generated to force the bullet from the neck of the casing, but not enough to push it through to the muzzle. In revolvers, it will often stop at the forcing cone, or just up the barrel. It is dangerous to fire another round behind. Any time you hear the tell tail “Pop”, STOP SHOOTING, DO NOT PULL THE TRIGGER, check the barrel for obstructions, call your range officer for help if necessary.