Squib don’t swim in the sea!

Squib don’t swim in the sea! What is a Squib? It sounds like sushi. Actually a Squib is not found in the ocean, but more likely part way down the barrel of your gun. Signs that a squib round has occurred include: a much quieter or otherwise unusual-sounding discharge noise, lighter than usual or nonexistent recoil force, a discharge of smoke from the ejection port instead of the barrel, and a failure of the action to cycle (in semi-automatic firearms). This can come from poor quality, old or damaged ammunition or from low quality re-loads. When the primer is ignited in the cartridge, an insufficient charge is generated to propel the bullet out of the gun. However, this doesn’t mean that no charge is generated, or that it might have a delayed discharge. If you think you might have a Squib DO NOT fire a second round in an attempt to clear the barrel, this can be very dangerous. If you are not familiar with the procedure to clear it, stay in place, keep the gun in your control, pointed down range and wave for a range safety officer to come and assist you. DO NOT lay the gun down, or remove the gun from the live fire area of the range with the round still in the barrel. In rare cases this may require the services of a gunsmith but that is still better than a negligent discharge on the way to the car. How can you minimize your risk? Buy quality ammunition, store it in the original packaging, in a clean, dry environment. If the box appears to have gotten wet or greasy, or the ammunition is old, most ranges have a means to safely dispose of bad ammunition. The price may be tempting, but I don’t recommend buying re-loads at a gun show. You don’t have the same quality control that you get in a factory setting. If you do your own reloads, take your time, and focus on the task, don’t try to reload while watching a movie. Be safe!!