What are Two Types of Safeties Found in Modern Shotguns?
Shotguns have evolved significantly over the years, and one of the key advancements is the inclusion of safety mechanisms to prevent accidental discharges. In modern shotguns, you’ll find two primary types of safeties that provide an extra layer of protection for the shooter and others around them. In this article, we’ll explore these two types of safeties and their functions.
Internal Safety
The internal safety is a crucial component of modern shotguns, designed to prevent the gun from firing unless the safety lever is intentionally moved from its "safe" position to the "fire" position. This type of safety is typically found on pump-action, semi-automatic, and break-action shotguns.
Here are the key features of internal safeties:
• Lever or button operation: Internal safeties are operated by a lever or button located on the receiver or forearm of the shotgun.
• Automatic trigger lock: When the safety lever is engaged, it automatically locks the trigger, preventing the gun from firing.
• Manual override: Most internal safeties have a manual override mechanism, allowing the shooter to momentarily release the safety and fire the gun in emergency situations.
External Safety
The external safety is an additional layer of protection found on some shotguns, particularly those designed for hunting and tactical applications. This type of safety is typically found on pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns.
Here are the key features of external safeties:
• Button or lever operation: External safeties are operated by a button or lever located on the receiver or forearm of the shotgun.
• Separate trigger mechanism: External safeties have a separate trigger mechanism that must be released before the gun can be fired.
• Tactical advantage: External safeties provide an additional layer of protection, making it more difficult for the shotgun to be accidentally fired in stressful situations.
Comparison of Internal and External Safeties
Here’s a comparison of internal and external safeties:
| Feature | Internal Safety | External Safety |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | Lever or button on receiver or forearm | Separate button or lever on receiver or forearm |
| Automatic Trigger Lock | Yes | No |
| Manual Override | Yes | No |
| Tactical Advantage | Limited | Enhanced |
Conclusion
In conclusion, modern shotguns come equipped with two primary types of safeties: internal and external. Internal safeties are designed to prevent accidental discharges by automatically locking the trigger, while external safeties provide an additional layer of protection by requiring the shooter to release a separate trigger mechanism before firing.
When choosing a shotgun, it’s essential to consider the type of safety mechanism that best suits your needs. Whether you’re a hunter, competitive shooter, or simply a responsible gun owner, understanding the features and functions of internal and external safeties will help you make an informed decision.
Additional Safety Tips
Here are some additional safety tips to keep in mind when handling and using your shotgun:
- Always keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to fire.
- Keep the shotgun unloaded when not in use.
- Use a gun case or lock when storing your shotgun.
- Always check the chamber and magazine before loading or firing your shotgun.
- Practice safe shooting habits and follow all local laws and regulations.
By understanding the two types of safeties found in modern shotguns and following safe shooting practices, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy your shotgun while minimizing the risk of accidents.
