Towards an understanding of involuntary firearms discharges - Possible risks and implications for training

Author: Heim, Christopher / Schmidtbleicher, Dietmar / Niebergall, Eckhard
Publication: Policing-an International Journal of Police Strategies & Management
Topics: Accidents/Unintentional Education/Counseling Law Enforcement Students
Keywords:
Bibliographic information +

25 students participated in a series of trials that required them to move one limb while holding a pistol in order to identify factors that lead to accidental firearm discharges. Results suggest that motor activity can lead to a significant increase in grip force exerted on a firearm. Generally, the use of the lower limbs appears to offer a greater danger for involuntary discharges than movements involving the arm not holding the firearm.