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Autoloading Pistols

Home > Examination of Firearms > Examination > Safety Features > Autoloading Pistols

External safety of Beretta 9mm Luger pistol

Courtesy of Forensic Technology Inc.
Gunsights Pro 3.0

Both semi- and full automatic pistols use the following steps in the examination of the safety features:

1. Check for an external safety device; this should be clearly marked in most pistols.
2. Confirm that the pistol is empty.
3. Either pull the slide to the rear and release it forward to cock the firearm or manually cock the external hammer.
4. Place the safety in the safe position.
5. Pull the trigger.

External safety of Desert Eagle
Mark VII pistol

Courtesy of Forensic Technology Inc.
Gunsights Pro 3.0

If functioning properly, the safety should block the trigger from operating. If the safety is functioning improperly, the following test should be performed:

1. Confirm that the pistol is empty.
2. Place a primed cartridge case in the chamber.
3. Pull the slide to the rear and release it forward to cock the firearm.
4. Place the safety in the safe position.
5. Pull the trigger.

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