A hangfire—that agonizing feeling of a firearm's mechanism malfunctioning, leaving the firing pin cocked and ready to discharge—is a serious situation demanding immediate and careful action. Improper handling can lead to accidental discharge and severe injury. This guide outlines the safest procedures to follow if you experience a hangfire.
Understanding Hangfires
A hangfire occurs when a firearm's primer ignites the propellant but the propellant doesn't immediately burn completely. There's a delay, anywhere from a fraction of a second to several seconds, before the cartridge discharges. This delay can be unnerving and dangerous. The crucial thing to remember is that the firearm is still loaded and potentially dangerous.
Immediate Actions: The "Four-S" Approach
Your response should follow a methodical, four-step process: Stop, Secure, Stay, Seek.
1. Stop: Immediately cease all activity.
Do not touch the firearm. Do not move. Avoid any sudden movements that could jostle the weapon and cause accidental discharge. Remain calm and assess the situation.
2. Secure: Safely secure the firearm.
- Point the firearm in a safe direction: This means pointing it downrange at a safe backstop, ideally a berm or similar earth embankment, far from any people or structures.
- Keep your finger off the trigger: This is paramount, regardless of the situation. Your finger should remain outside the trigger guard.
- Maintain a safe distance: Allow ample time—at least 30 seconds—to pass. This is crucial to allow for potential delayed ignition.
3. Stay: Remain in a safe position.
Do not attempt to manipulate the firearm. Maintain a safe distance and continue to point the firearm in a safe direction. Inform anyone nearby of the situation and request they move to a safe location.
4. Seek: Seek assistance from qualified personnel.
- Do not attempt to clear the malfunction yourself: This increases the risk of accidental discharge.
- Contact experienced gunsmith or firearms instructor: They possess the expertise to safely unload and inspect the firearm.
- If at a shooting range: Immediately inform the range safety officer. They're trained to handle these situations safely.
- If involved in a hunting accident: Contact emergency services immediately.
After the Hangfire
Once the firearm has been safely handled by a qualified professional, investigate the cause. This could involve:
- Ammunition inspection: Examine the ammunition for defects. Using substandard or damaged ammunition is a major contributor to hangfires.
- Firearm inspection: A thorough inspection by a gunsmith will help identify potential issues with the firearm's mechanism. This is especially important if hangfires occur repeatedly.
Preventing Hangfires
Preventing hangfires requires attention to detail:
- Use high-quality ammunition: This significantly reduces the likelihood of hangfires and misfires.
- Proper firearm maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain your firearm to ensure its proper functioning.
- Correct storage: Store ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures.
A hangfire is a serious event. Prioritizing safety by following the "Four-S" approach will minimize the risk of injury. Remember, professional help is key. Never attempt to handle a hangfire without the proper training and expertise. Your safety and the safety of those around you is paramount.
