Guns are deadly weapons! Always think, be alert, and obey all firearms safety rules!
While the vast majority of new handguns are very reliable, any mechanical object - especially if neglected - is susceptible to malfunction. So it’s smart to have a good understanding of the pistol. Proper break-in and maintenance will optimize its reliability, your performance and enjoyment.
INSPECTION
When purchasing a pistol, inspect it thoroughly (scratches, nicks, sights properly staked, etc.). Check the controls/components (trigger, hammer, decocker, safety, magazine release, slide lock/release, extractor, magazines) to be sure they’re looking and working properly. Ask the seller to field-strip the gun so you can examine the internal parts. Confirm the make, model, caliber, new or preowned, and serial number; specify all such information on the transaction receipt.
FULLY-EQUIPPED
Be sure the gun comes with all accessories and supplies such as magazines, operator’s manual, extra grips, case, gun lock, etc. Some pistols come with a factory test-fire casing enclosed in an envelope. If so, from a prospective gun resale standpoint, it’s usually best not to break the seal on the envelope.
LEGAL
Verify and obey all applicable laws and regulations (state, federal, county and municipal) relating to firearm transactions, registration, transportation, storage, magazine capacity, etc. Retain gun purchase/sale records (including photos showing serial number) for at least 10 years.
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Before or when taking possession of the gun, carefully read the operator’s manual and familiarize yourself with safety protocols, major parts and nomenclature, recommended maintenance, etc. Most manufacturers’ websites have digital manuals available for download. A gun schematic diagram and parts list are handy to have. Submit any available warranty to the manufacturer and/or dealer.
INITIAL CLEANING & PREPARATION
New guns often contain manufacturing grime and/or rust-retardant substance (rather than lubricant). Unless guns are adequately cleaned and oiled before initial use, they’re more susceptible to malfunction. Disassembly, cleaning, lubrication and reassembly will also better acquaint you with the gun. Consult the operator’s manual for specific, ongoing maintenance recommendations. Be sure to always perform a thorough function check after reassembly. Inspect the magazines (and clean if preowned). Load and unload magazines at least eight times, and then leave the magazines fully loaded before initial use. Preliminarily working magazine springs will reduce the likelihood of feeding malfunctions.
RACKING THE SLIDE
Rack the slide back and forth, hard and fast, at least 100 times. (Ease - don't slingshot - the slide forward when you're not chambering a round). Racking the slide will:- exercise the recoil spring and foster more reliable cartridge feeding and casing ejection during initial use.
- smooth out the gun's rails and other slide-to-frame mating surfaces
- strengthen your grip, wrists and forearms
- better familiarize you with the gun's feel
- make racking the slide more natural (intuitive and "automatic")
DRY-FIRING
Dry-firing with snap caps (no live ammo anywhere nearby!) as much as possible is an excellent practice. It will:
- accustom you to the trigger pull (pressure and travel)
- strengthen your trigger finger, grip, wrists and forearms
- acclimate you to the gun's ergonomics, sights and controls, engendering better shooting proficiency (accuracy + speed)
- smooth out and lighten the trigger pull somewhat
The ultimate objective of the racking and dry-fire exercises is to make you "one with the gun." Your motions should become certain, fluid, fast and efficient. You'll be a more competent target shooter. And if the pistol is being used for carry/duty, you'll be better able to respond with maximum speed and effectiveness.
MAGAZINES, SUPPLIES
It’s smart to have at least three magazines for each pistol, and know of reliable sources for parts and accessories. But until certain you’re completely satisfied with the gun, don’t buy unnecessary merchandise for it.
AMMUNITION
During initial break-in period (first 500 rounds approx.), handguns usually function more dependably with quality ammunition, factory-made, brass cased, full metal jacket (FMJ), standard pressure, round nose (RN). It’s ordinarily better to start 9mm guns with a 124 grain bullet weight. Once the gun consistently “digests” 124 grain, confirm the reliability of 115 and 147 grain rounds. In .45 ACP ammo, 230 grain bullets are normally best for initial use. Consult the operator’s manual for specific ammunition recommendations and prohibitions.
Don’t use hollow-points or high-pressured (+P or +P+) cartridges, even if approved by the gun manufacturer, until you’re sure the gun has been successfully broken in. If feeding problems arise with hollow-points, closely examine the pistol’s feedramp, barrel chamber and throat for gunpowder buildup, nicks, deformity, etc.
Don’t use hollow-points or high-pressured (+P or +P+) cartridges, even if approved by the gun manufacturer, until you’re sure the gun has been successfully broken in. If feeding problems arise with hollow-points, closely examine the pistol’s feedramp, barrel chamber and throat for gunpowder buildup, nicks, deformity, etc.
MALFUNCTIONS
If there’s any malfunction you’re unable to safely, readily and successfully fix, promptly stop handling the gun! Hopefully you’ll be able to release the magazine and eject any chambered round; examine the gun to be certain it’s unloaded. If you’re at a gun range, follow proper rules and ask their staff for assistance. Assuming they’re unable, seek the services of a gunsmith, armorer, some other highly-experienced person, or contact the manufacturer.
AFTERWORD
Take good care of the gun and it’s more likely to take good care of you. After all, your life may depend upon it.
Legal Disclaimer/Hold Harmless: Every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the treatise's contents. However, the information and recommendations are provided "as is," and without warranty of any kind. The author disavows any responsibility or liability for accuracy, timeliness, completeness, legality or reliability and shall not be responsible for any injury, liability, loss, or damage of whatever nature (direct, indirect, consequential) which may result from its use or non-use.
copyright 2014-2024 Bruce Edenson. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
