How to Diagnose and Fix Common Handgun Malfunctions
Handgun malfunctions can occur no matter how well-maintained a handgun is. It’s not uncommon for even the most experienced shooters to encounter malfunctions. Knowing how to quickly and safely address common handgun malfunctions can distinguish between success and failure in self-defense or competition. In this blog, I will discuss some common malfunctions with a handgun and how to address them.
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Common Malfunctions with Handguns
Knowing common malfunctions with handguns is important for anyone who owns or handles firearms. Malfunctions can happen even with the most reliable guns, and knowing how to recognize and address them can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of the shooter and those around them.
Some common malfunctions include failure to feed, extract, stovepipe jams, and double feeds. It is important to learn how to diagnose and fix these malfunctions to prevent them from reoccurring in the future. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning can also help prevent malfunctions. Familiarizing oneself with these issues and practicing proper firearm handling can help improve safety, prevent injury, and ensure a more successful shooting experience.
Tap, Rack, and Assess
You’ll hear this term frequently in this post, so we’ve listed it here as a reminder.
The first step in addressing malfunctions is performing the “tap, rack, and assess” procedure. Tap the bottom of the magazine to ensure it is seated properly, then rack the slide forcefully to eject any malfunctioning round and chamber a new one. Finally, assess the situation to determine if the firearm is ready to fire or if further action is needed.
Failure to Feed
Failure to feed, often called an “FTF” malfunction, occurs when the slide of your handgun fails to cycle and load the next round into the chamber during the feeding cycle. This can result in a misfire or a complete stoppage, preventing the handgun from firing and potentially compromising your shooting experience or personal safety.
Causes of a Failure to Feed
- Magazine Issues: An improperly loaded or faulty magazine is a common cause of failure to feed. Insufficiently loaded magazines, misaligned cartridges, or damaged feed lips can impede the smooth feeding of rounds into the chamber.
- Improper Grip and Stance: A weak or improper grip on the handgun can interfere with the recoil cycle, potentially causing a failure to feed. Inadequate wrist support or limp-wristing can disrupt the proper cycling of the slide, leading to malfunctions.
- Ammunition Problems: Certain types of ammunition, particularly those with inconsistent bullet profiles or inadequate bullet lubrication, can contribute to failures to feed. Additionally, ammunition that does not meet the firearm’s recommended specifications or has been improperly stored can cause feeding issues.
- Extractor or Ejector Problems: Malfunctions related to the extractor or ejector can also result in failures to feed. A worn, dirty, or improperly tensioned extractor can cause the slide to fail to engage the cartridge’s rim properly during feeding.
Failure to Feed Troubleshooting
- Tap, Rack, and Assess: The first step in addressing a failure to feed is to perform the “tap, rack, and assess” procedure.
- Check Magazine and Ammunition: Inspect the magazine for any visible issues such as misaligned cartridges, debris, or damage. Ensure the magazine is fully loaded and seated properly in the firearm. If the problem persists, try using a different magazine or inspect the ammunition for any visible defects or signs of damage.
- Inspect and Clean Extractor: Examine the extractor for debris, dirt, or fouling buildup. Carefully clean the extractor and ensure it moves freely without binding. Consider replacing the extractor if it is worn, damaged, or malfunctioning.
- Evaluate Grip and Stance: Pay attention to your grip and shooting stance. Ensure you have a firm and consistent grip on the handgun, with proper wrist support to facilitate reliable slide cycling. Make any necessary adjustments to improve your grip and stance.
- Seek Professional Assistance: If the failure to feed issue persists or you are uncertain about addressing the problem yourself. Seek assistance from a qualified firearms instructor or a professional gunsmith. They can diagnose and resolve any underlying mechanical issues or provide further guidance on proper maintenance and troubleshooting.
Failure to Eject
When the spent casing from a fired round fails to eject from the chamber. It becomes stuck in the handgun’s action. Known as failure to eject, this can fail to load the next round, causing a stoppage and disrupting the firing cycle.
Causes of FTE
- Weak or Inconsistent Ammunition: Certain types of ammunition, particularly those with inadequate powder charge or improper bullet profiles, can contribute to failure to eject malfunctions. Ammunition with insufficient power may not generate enough recoil energy to cycle the slide and eject spent casings.
- Extractor Problems: The extractor, a small claw-like mechanism, is responsible for gripping the rim of the spent casing and extracting it from the chamber. If the extractor is worn, improperly tensioned, or dirty, it may not grip the casing firmly enough to extract and eject it reliably.
- Dirty or Damaged Chamber: A dirty or fouled chamber can cause friction and resistance during ejection. Accumulated debris, such as dirt, carbon buildup, or brass shavings, can impede the smooth extraction and ejection of spent casings.
- Weak Recoil Spring: The recoil spring plays a crucial role in returning the slide to its forward position after firing. If the recoil spring is worn, weakened, or incorrectly installed, it may not provide sufficient force to cycle the slide fully, leading to failures to eject.
Troubleshooting Failure to Eject
- Tap, Rack, and Assess: The initial step in addressing a failure to eject is to perform the “tap, rack, and assess” procedure.
- Inspect and Clean the Chamber: Carefully inspect the chamber for any dirt, debris, or fouling signs. If necessary, clean the chamber using an appropriate cleaning tool and solvent. Pay particular attention to the feed ramp and chamber area to ensure smooth and unobstructed slide movement.
- Examine and Clean the Extractor: Inspect the extractor for any dirt, carbon residue, or debris buildup. Clean the extractor using a suitable cleaning brush and solvent, ensuring that it moves freely and has sufficient tension to grip the rim of the casing properly. Replace the extractor if it appears worn or damaged.
- Evaluate the Recoil Spring: Check the condition of the recoil spring. Ensure that it is properly seated and not visibly worn or distorted. If necessary, replace the recoil spring with a new one that matches the specifications recommended by the firearm manufacturer.
- Consider Ammunition Quality: If failure to eject issues persists, evaluate the ammunition quality and consistency used. Switch to a reputable brand or different load to determine if the problem is related to weak or inconsistent ammunition.
- Seek Professional Assistance: If the failure to eject the problem persists, it is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified firearms instructor or gunsmith. They can diagnose and resolve any underlying mechanical issues or provide further guidance.
Stovepipe Malfunctions
A stovepipe malfunction, often called a “stovepipe jam,” occurs when a spent casing is not ejected cleanly. It doesn’t completely exit the gun chamber and is trapped vertically, sticking out from the ejection port. This can prevent the slide from cycling fully, leading to a stoppage and hindering the firearm from firing properly.
Causes of Stovepipe Malfunctions
- Weak or Inconsistent Ammunition: Inadequate ammunition power, such as rounds with insufficient powder charge or light loads, can result in stovepipe malfunctions. Insufficient recoil energy generated by the ammunition may not provide enough force to eject the spent casing effectively.
- Weak or Damaged Extractor: The extractor is responsible for gripping and extracting spent casings from the chamber. If the extractor is weakened, worn, or improperly tensioned, it may fail to extract the casing fully, resulting in a stovepipe malfunction.
- Limp-Wristing: Limp-wristing, a shooting technique where the shooter holds the handgun too loosely. It can impede the proper cycling of the slide. The lack of a firm grip and wrist tension can hinder the slide’s rearward movement. This can lead to failures to eject spent casings fully.
- Dirty or Fouled Extractor Channel: A buildup of dirt, debris, or fouling in the extractor channel can impede the smooth movement of the extractor. It can cause it to lose it’s grip on the casing. This can result in stovepipe malfunctions as the spent casing is not extracted cleanly.
Stovepipe Troubleshooting
- Tap, Rack, and Assess: The first step in addressing a stovepipe malfunction is to perform the “tap, rack, and assess” procedure.
- Inspect and Clean the Extractor: Carefully inspect the extractor for any debris, dirt, or fouling that may hinder its proper operation. Use an appropriate cleaning tool and solvent to thoroughly clean the extractor and its channel. Ensure the extractor moves freely and grips the casing firmly.
- Evaluate Ammunition Quality: If stovepipe malfunctions persist, consider the quality and consistency of the ammunition used. Switching to a different brand or load may address the issue if weak or inconsistent ammunition was the cause.
- Check and Improve Shooting Technique: Evaluate your shooting technique, specifically your grip and wrist tension. Ensure you have a firm and consistent grip on the handgun, with proper wrist support to facilitate reliable slide cycling. Address limp-wristing tendencies by maintaining a solid grip and providing ample resistance to absorb recoil energy.
- Seek Professional Assistance: If the stovepipe malfunction persists or you are unsure about addressing it yourself, you should seek assistance from a qualified firearms instructor or a professional gunsmith. They can diagnose and resolve any underlying mechanical issues causing the stovepipe malfunction. A professional can also guide proper maintenance and troubleshooting for your handgun model.
Failure to Fire
In the world of handguns, experiencing a failure to fire can be frustrating and impact your shooting session. This malfunction occurs when you pull the trigger, but the cartridge fails to ignite, and the firearm does not discharge. Understanding the causes of a failure to fire and knowing how to address it effectively is crucial for maintaining the functionality of your handgun. In this section, we will explore what a failure to fire is, its potential causes, and the steps you can take to fix it efficiently.
A failure to fire, also known as a “misfire,” is a malfunction where the trigger is pulled, but the firearm does not discharge. In this scenario, the cartridge’s primer fails to ignite the propellant, preventing the round from firing.
Causes of Failure to Fire Malfunctions
- Defective Ammunition: A common cause of failure to fire is defective ammunition. This can occur due to issues with the primer, such as improper seating or a faulty primer compound. Additionally, old or improperly stored ammunition may have deteriorated, leading to unreliable ignition.
- Firing Pin Issues: The firing pin, responsible for striking the primer and igniting the cartridge, can become worn, damaged, or dirty over time. If the firing pin fails to contact the primer properly, it can fail to fire.
- Weak or Worn Hammer Spring: The hammer spring is crucial for delivering sufficient force to the firing pin. If the hammer spring is weak or worn, it may not provide enough energy to strike the primer with the necessary force for reliable ignition.
- Improper Firing Pin Channel Maintenance: A dirty or fouled firing pin channel can hinder the smooth movement of the firing pin, preventing it from striking the primer effectively. The buildup of debris, oil, or carbon residue can impede proper contact and cause a failure to fire.
- Improper Grip or Trigger Pull: In some cases, user error can lead to a failure to fire. An improper grip or trigger pull that does not fully engage the trigger mechanism may prevent the firing pin from being released properly, resulting in a misfire.
Failure to Fire Troubleshooting
- Wait and Observe: After a failure to fire, keep your aim on the target for a short while, keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction. Observe the cartridge carefully to ensure there is no delayed or slow ignition. You can proceed with remedial action if the round has not been discharged.
- Tap, Rack, and Assess: The tap, rack, and assess procedure is the initial step in addressing a failure to fire.
- Check Ammunition: Inspect the misfired cartridge for any visible defects or signs of damage. If the ammunition appears intact, set it aside and avoid using it again.
- Clean the Firing Pin Channel: If the failure to fire persists, disassemble the firearm and thoroughly clean the firing pin channel.
- Check the Firing Pin: Inspect the firing pin for any signs of wear, damage, or buildup. Clean the firing pin using an appropriate cleaning tool and solvent to ensure smooth movement. If you notice damage or excessive wear, it may need replacing.
- Verify Hammer Spring Tension: Check the tension of the hammer spring. If it feels weak or worn, consider replacing the spring with a new one that matches the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Evaluate Grip and Trigger Pull: Assess your grip and trigger pull technique. Ensure you have a firm and consistent grip on the handgun, and pull the trigger smoothly.
- Test with Different Ammunition: If the issue persists, use different ammunition from a reliable manufacturer.
Double Feed
The double feed occurs when two rounds are simultaneously fed into the chamber. It results in a severe stoppage that prevents the firearm from functioning properly. Understanding the causes of a double feed and knowing how to address it effectively is important. In this section, we will explore what a double feed is, its potential causes, and the steps to fix it.
A double feed refers to a malfunction in which two rounds are simultaneously fed into the chamber. This results in a serious stoppage that prevents the slide from fully closing and leaves the firearm inoperable.
Causes of double feed Malfunction
- Faulty Magazine: A common cause of double feeds is a faulty or worn-out magazine. Malfunctioning magazines can allow more than one round to be released at a time, leading to a double feed.
- Weak Magazine Spring: If the magazine spring is weak or worn, it may not provide enough tension to push rounds into the chamber properly. This can result in rounds getting stuck or multiple rounds being fed simultaneously.
- Improper Grip and Stance: Inadequate grip and improper shooting stance can contribute to double feeds. Limp-wristing, is failing to maintain a firm grip on the handgun. It can cause a lack of recoil energy, leading to feeding issues.
- Extracting or Ejecting Issues: Extractor or ejector problems can also lead to double feeds. A badly tensioned extractor may fail to properly extract the spent casing, causing it to remain in the chamber.c
Double Feed Troubleshooting
- Perform Immediate Action: When encountering a double feed, it’s important to react promptly. The immediate action for a double feed involves following a specific sequence of steps. This will clear the malfunction and make the firearm operational again.
- Lock the Slide: The slide is likely already partially open. If not, manually retract the slide to lock it in place.
- Remove the Magazine: Press the release button and remove the magazine from the handgun. Ensure the magazine is fully seated and free from any obstructions or debris.
- Rack the Slide: Grasp it firmly and forcefully rack it to the rear. This helps clear the chamber of stuck rounds or casings and resets the internal components for proper operation.
- Visually Inspect and Clear Obstructions: While the slide is held to the rear, visually inspect the chamber to ensure it is clear of obstructions.
- Reload and Resume Shooting: Insert a fresh magazine into the handgun, ensuring it is properly seated. Release the slide forward by either using the slide stop/release or retracting the slide slightly and releasing it. Resume shooting as intended.
- Address Underlying Issues: Check the magazine for any signs of damage, wear, or improper feeding. Consider replacing the magazine or the magazine spring if necessary. Additionally, inspect the extractor for proper functioning and cleanliness. Clean and lubricate the handgun regularly to maintain proper operation.
- Practice Proper Grip and Stance: Ensure you have a firm and consistent grip on the handgun, with proper wrist support.
Common Handgun Malfunctions Conclusion
Encountering malfunctions is an unfortunate but inevitable part of owning and using handguns. Understanding common handgun malfunctions and knowing how to address them effectively is important.
It is important to remember that prevention is key to minimizing malfunctions. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, is essential to keep your handgun in optimal condition.
Safety should always be your top priority when dealing with handgun malfunctions. Adhere to safe handling practices, keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction, and remember to treat it as if it is loaded at all times.
By familiarizing yourself with handgun malfunctions and understanding how to address them, you can ensure a safer and more reliable shooting experience. Stay proactive in firearm maintenance, practice proper shooting techniques, and stay informed about your specific handgun model to mitigate malfunctions and confidently enjoy your shooting sessions.
Common Handgun Malfunctions FAQs
A failure-to-feed malfunction occurs when the firearm fails to load the next round into the chamber. Several factors can cause this, including an improperly loaded magazine, a dirty or damaged magazine, or a worn-out recoil spring.
A failure-to-extract malfunction occurs when the spent casing fails to eject from the firearm after firing. This can be caused by a dirty or damaged extractor, an overly dirty chamber, or a worn-out ejector.
When a spent casing fails to eject fully and becomes stuck in the ejection port in a vertical position. It resembles a stovepipe and causes a stovepipe jam. This malfunction can occur due to a weak extractor spring, an overly dirty chamber, or a limp-wristed grip.
A double feed malfunction occurs when a new round is fed into the chamber while a spent casing is still in the ejection port. Various factors, such as a dirty or damaged magazine, a weak magazine spring, or a worn-out extractor, can cause this.
Proper maintenance and cleaning of your firearm can help prevent malfunctions. Additionally, using high-quality ammunition. Additionally, regularly replacing worn-out parts and receiving proper training on handling your firearm can also help prevent malfunctions. Always follow proper safety guidelines and ensure your firearm is in good working condition before using it.