Is it bad to dry fire a gun?

[WestonSmith]

I was wondering if it is bad to dry fire a gun? I have heard that dry firing is only bad on rimfire and old centerfire firearms, but does not hurt centerfire firearms. Some say that it is good in teaching yourself shooting technique. I have also heard others say that it is bad to dry fire any type of firearms, including handguns.

I just bought my first handgun a few days ago, a Springfield XD. It has a cocked indicator pin, that sticks out the back of the gun when it is cocked (obviously you still need to be careful and follow safety rules). I have heard that whenever you pick up a semi-auto, it is a good idea to always remove the magazine and pull back the slide to see if it is loaded. Whenever I do that to my XD, the indicator pin sticks out. I feel nervous if the cocked indicator is sticking out and what is the point of having the indicator feature if it is always going to be sticking out, but at the same time I am worried that pulling the trigger that often will be bad for the firing pin inside.

 

[Jorg Nysgerrig]

As you mentioned, it is typically ok to dry fire most centerfire guns. With rimfire, it is generally a no-no.

However, for your specific question, you should consult your XD manual. Page 7 and 11 of your XD manual both recommend dry firying as method with which to become more familiar with the gun. So, you should be ok to dry fire to your heart's content.

As far as keeping it cocked vs. dry firing it to decock it, I don't think it will make much difference in the long run. Personally, I wouldn't worry about the indicator sticking out.

 

[kd7nqb]

use of snap caps? are they useful?

 

[Mandirigma]

IF you are worried about dry-firing pick up some snap caps. They are great for learning how to do malfunction drills.

As for dropping the mag and racking the slide, thats great advise. On my own personal weapons I do a press check at this time its just an ingrained habit.

On the few occasions that someone hands me one of thiers to inspect, I point the weapon in a safe direction (usually with the ejection port up) and pull the slide back until I see brass or an empty chamber.

I have a thing about leaving my print on someone elses bullet since I know they are now filed away somewehere. Just don't want to have to be called to explain it.

As to feeling nervous because the cocking indicator is sticking out, don't. All guns are always loaded, remember? Also keep your finger off the bang switch and you'll be alright (aka rule 3)