Magazine Disconnect

posted on September 11, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
disconn.jpg

Q: I have just started reading American Rifleman, and I love the technical information in the magazine. But it seems like you guys sometimes assume every reader knows what every gun term you use means. What is a magazine disconnect? Is it the same thing as a safety? 

A: The answer is “yes” and “no.” A common misconception—usually made by those not familiar with semi-automatic pistols—is to assume that when the magazine is withdrawn from the firearm, the gun is empty. There may still be, however, a live round in the chamber. If the slide is in battery with a cartridge chambered, the gun—whether a single-action like the M1911 or a double-action (first shot only) like the Beretta Model 92FS—can be fired, even with the magazine removed. A magazine disconnector, sometimes called a magazine disconnect safety, is designed to prevent this.

Thus, a handgun such as the Browning High Power, which has a magazine disconnect, cannot be fired if the magazine is even partially withdrawn, as the firing pin is mechanically blocked from striking the primer. With the magazine fully reinserted, the handgun becomes operational again. 

For some, the presence of a magazine disconnect is a welcome feature and another layer of mechanical safety—of course, no mechanical device should take the place of common safety practices, including always keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and assuming every gun is loaded. 

Nonetheless, the inclusion of a magazine disconnect has some potentially serious drawbacks in a handgun intended for defensive use. For example, if the magazine has not been completely seated in the gun, which can happen, especially under stress, the pistol will not fire. Too, inadvertently depressing the magazine release while drawing the pistol has the same unwanted effect. 

Also, while performing a tactical reload, in which a partially empty magazine is replaced with a fully loaded magazine in a situation where increased capacity might be needed, a magazine disconnect renders the gun useless during the reloading process. This puts the handgunner momentarily in a vulnerable situation with a partially loaded gun that will not operate.

I experienced all of these situations while undergoing the strenuous but comprehensive 250 Pistol Class at Gunsite in Paulden, Ariz. Whether or not you opt for a pistol with a magazine disconnect, it is critical that you understand how your pistol operates (or when it doesn’t) and train to become proficient with whatever handgun you choose.

Latest

Left A3 Bullpup Web
Left A3 Bullpup Web

Bullpup Your AR-15: The A3 Industries Triad Modular Bullpup Chassis

This chassis kit provides a handy way for AR fans to try a bullpup carbine on for size.

Hillsdale College & The Shooting Sports

Hillsdale College has invested in the Second Amendment and the shooting sports in a way that few schools have. At its John A. Halter Shooting Sports Education Center, collegiate shotgun and action pistol teams compete and build their firearm-handling skills.

Thompson/Center Arms Acquires Green Mountain Rifle Barrel Company

Thompson/Center Arms announced it has acquired the Green Mountain Rifle Barrel Company.

Teaching Liberty: Hillsdale College & The Second Amendment

At Hillsdale College, students don't just learn about the fundamental truths behind the Second Amendment. They also learn the practical side of the right to keep and bear arms.

Smith & Wesson Partners With Lipsey's On Line Of "Mountain Guns"

First applied to its Model 629 in 1989, the Smith & Wesson "Mountain Gun" is a lightweight and compact variant designed to be carried afield, and thanks to a partnership with Lipsey's, Smith & Wesson is bringing them back.

Pro-NRA & Second Amendment Supporter Dr. Michael Fuljenz Wins National Writing Award

Longtime NRA benefactor Dr. Mike Fuljenz, president of Universal Coin & Bullion, was honored by the Numismatic Literary Guild for his recent and timely article about the need to eliminate copper pennies.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.