Handgun Basics for Absolute Beginners

Handguns for Absolute Beginners

In this video, the speaker provides an introduction to handguns for beginners. He advises against relying solely on videos and recommends finding someone in person to help with handling firearms. The speaker explains the basics of handguns, including their different shapes and sizes, bullet calibers, and cartridges.

Introduction

• The speaker introduces himself and his topic: handguns for absolute beginners.

• He advises against relying solely on videos when considering buying a handgun.

• Instead, he recommends finding someone in person who can help with handling firearms.

Basics of Handguns

• Handguns come in all shapes and sizes, from shooting tiny bullets to very large ones.

• The size of the gun does not dictate how big the bullet it shoots is.

• Different handguns shoot different calibers of bullets.

• Caliber refers to how big the bullet is that is shot out of a firearm.

Bullet Calibers

• The most common caliber for handguns is 9 millimeter.

• Other common calibers include .45, .22 LR, .380, .357, and 10 millimeter.

• Caliber measurements are either in inches or millimeters depending on the system used (standard or metric).

• For example, a 9 millimeter cartridge means that if you were to measure the widest part of the bullet at its profile, it would be nine millimeters or very close to it.

Cartridges

• A cartridge consists of two parts: the projectile (the part that leaves the firearm when fired) and the case (the back two-thirds that stays in the firearm after firing).

• Different types of cartridges are used for different types of firearms.

Understanding Handguns

In this section, the instructor explains how handguns work and the different components of a cartridge.

Components of a Cartridge

• Three common calibers for handguns are 22lr, 9mm, and 45 acp.

• The two main components of a cartridge are the bullet and the backside. The primer is located in the middle of the backside.

• Gunpowder is located between the bullet and backside, and ignites when hit by the primer to propel the bullet out of the barrel.

Parts of a Handgun

• When fired, expanding gas propels the bullet out of the barrel.

• Different types of handguns have different ways to hit that little primer on a cartridge. This handgun uses an external hammer that drops when you pull the trigger.

• A magazine holds cartridges and has a spring to move them up into position for firing. It differs from a clip which only holds cartridges by their rim.

Checking if a Firearm is Clear

• To check if there's no round in chamber, open slide up and look inside chamber.

• To demonstrate checking if chamber is clear, physically insert around into chamber then remove it to show it's empty.

• Check magazine well to ensure there's no magazine in firearm.

Safety Reminder

• Always remember to check if there's no round in chamber before handling firearms.

Components of a Pistol

In this section, the speaker talks about the different components of a pistol and how they work.

The Slide

• Most pistols have a slide which is the top part of the firearm.

• Racking the slide is when you pull it back to check if there's anything in the chamber.

• After inserting a magazine with cartridges, racking the slide will feed a bullet into the chamber.

Trigger Safety

• Do not put your finger on the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

• Keep your finger straight until you are ready to pull it at that exact moment.

• Some firearms have a dimple or other features to remind you where to place your finger.

Conclusion

• Firearms are deadly tools that require proper knowledge and handling for safe use.

• Learn how to be careful and safe with firearms before practicing and becoming proficient.