About a week ago we were at our local gun shop and we got into a heated discussion with an older gentleman about AD’s (or accidental discharges).  Mr. Vernon was sure that AD’s were a viable phenomenon and we were being too “old school” on the newer class of shooters.  We’ll give you a short description of just what they are, how they can occur, and how we feel about this pesky thing called: “Accidental Discharges.”

Technically, accidental discharges (often called AD’s) may occur in a couple of different ways.  Most often AD’s occur when shooters deliberately pull the trigger for a purpose other than shooting (i.e. for dry-fire practice, demonstration purposes, or even to test functionality).  The AD occurs because the shooter left ammunition unintentionally in the chamber.  Another common cause of AD’s occurs when a shooter places their finger on the trigger before they have identified their target and are ready to engage.  With the trigger finger placed on the trigger, a myriad of things may occur to activate the trigger  unintentionally (i.e. holstering the firearm with finger on trigger, the holster edge will drive the finger into the trigger guard and activate the trigger….. and thus accidental discharge is likely…….).

At PSA, we side strongly against the existence of AD’s.  We feel that understanding the importance of training and having a safety first state of mind will prevent AD’s.  Unintentionally leaving a firearm loaded is more likely to occur when the individual handling the gun is poorly trained.  Furthermore, erroneous placement of the trigger finger is a suffering of the same affliction:  poor training, carelessness, and lack of competent knowledge.

Being a responsible armed citizen calls for more than going to Uncle Bob’s Gun Shop, buying a Model 29 Smith, and strapping it on your hip.  It means that you are responsible for any thing that comes out of the business end of that firearm.  Ensuring that you are knowledgeable and competent with that firearm lies solely with the owner.  Accidental Discharges only exist in the realm where training and proper knowledge are lacking.

***  If you are unfamiliar with firearms and/or their accessories, and want to learn more, PSA strongly suggests that you find, enroll, and attend a comprehensive and reputable firearms safety course. Firearms safety is all of OUR responsibility.  

We want to thank you for taking out the time to stop by our lane at the shooting range!!  We hope that you enjoyed your stay and hope that you stop back by early and often to catch up on all PSA updates!  We truly hope that we were able to hit the target, and if you ever have any questions please don’t hesitate to shoot them our way!!  We look forward to shooting the breeze with you soon again!!

And as always….remember to watch your six and stay low!!!