Strange Firearm Malfunctions: From Blown-Out Polices to Squibs and More

Firearm malfunctions can occur even in the most controlled environments, often leading to confusion and danger. In this article, we share some of the most peculiar firearm incidents encountered by law enforcement and shooters, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and awareness during shooting.p>

Incidents and Insights

Colt .45 1911 Mishap in Police Academy

During a demonstration at the police academy, the instructor used a Colt .45 1911 to simulate an attack with an edged weapon. However, something unusual happened. After making the pistol safe and demonstrating its readiness, the instructor placed a chamber round and pulled the slide release. KABOOM! went the weapon, literally. Bill, the instructor, was taken aback but reassured the students that everyone was alright. The instructor then called Rogers Bengston and Shurrod into his office for a report, but the real issue was that a stronger return spring had been installed, causing the firing pin to follow the slide and impact the primer, resulting in a premature discharge. This incident highlights the critical importance of proper firearm maintenance and the potential dangers of untested alterations.

US Army M16 Squib Issue at Ft. Benning

While on the range at Ft. Benning, one of the soldiers experienced a squib, an incomplete discharge where the primer ignites but the bullet fails to leave the barrel. The soldier's steps to address the issue inadvertently caused more problems. He pulled the charging handle to eject the brass, fed a new round, and pushed the bolt assist forward to ensure a proper chambering. However, the squib prevented the new round from seating correctly, resulting in the weapon not firing. After several attempts, the bits of the squib moved far enough to allow the new round to seat and fire. The pressure from the M16 design prevented direct blowback into the firer's face, but the receiver bulged, and a significant amount of debris exited through the ejection port. This incident underscores the need for proper diagnosis and handling of malfunctions.

YOUTHFUL EXPERIENCE WITH A .22 AUTOLOADING RIFLE

At the tender age of 14 or 15, a .22 autoloading rifle that had been hitting targets with ease suddenly started to misfire. Unable to pinpoint the issue, the author decided to sell the rifle cheaply to a friend. Weeks later, while at school, the teacher was calling out to the author. Not recognizing the call, the author asked, Who is that?. This incident led to further complications, as the author could not read the big E on the eye chart during an optometry visit, ultimately resulting in the need for glasses. The friend who bought the rifle never let the author forget this mishap, emphasizing the potential consequences of misdiagnosed malfunctions in firearms.

Conclusion

Firearm malfunctions, while rare, can have severe consequences. They can range from mere annoyances to life-threatening situations. Proper maintenance, understanding of firearm operations, and the ability to diagnose and address malfunctions are crucial for safe and effective use of firearms. Whether it is a squib, a premature discharge, or any other anomaly, it is essential to take prompt and appropriate action to ensure the safety of oneself and others.