legal issue with changing the trigger on concealed weapon?

[Uncle Richard]

Is there any legal issue with a firearm that had the factory trigger replaced with an aftermarket trigger, which was used in a self-defense situation? Specifically, I've just started carrying a SW Shield, and would like to replace the factory with an Apex.

 

[Scrubber3]

While any changes to a firearm could possibly give some hellbent DA ammo against you, I doubt an apex trigger would go too far as a liability. Unless you plan to make it a "hair" trigger, I wouldn't worry too much about it. Disclaimer: I am not an attorney and therefore you shouldn't listen to my legal advice.

 

[ilbob]

there is some small chance that any modifications to a gun including use of non-factory magazines might come back to bite you. But I suspect the major problem is being forced to use a gun in self defense in the first place.

there is no issue if you don't have to use your gun.

 

[tyeo098]

Search works fine for me... clear your cache and reboot?

http://www.thehighroad.org/search.php?searchid=12263895

 

[Krozi]

I remember when I was watching the Zimmerman case, they had some lady there talking about the firearm used in the shooting and if it had been modified. They tested the trigger pull and discussed this also. Not saying that it will or will not matter, but I can see how an attorney can make an argument against you for it.

 

[mljdeckard]

I call it possible but unlikely.

I think it is difficult to say that a change is bad just because it is a change. A better trigger doesn't mean a BAD change. If it was a cheaper, lighter, or defective trigger, I could see someone trying to call it a 'negligent' modification. I put different grips, sights, and guide rod on my carry gun, I think a DA would have to be pretty creative to say that these changes were negligent in any way.

The main thing I tell my carry students, is not to ever disable any safety device. Don't pin down grip safeties, don't disable magazine disconnects, things that actually change HOW the gun functions.

You can 'what if' all day long, and if a rookie DA is REALLY trying to hang you up, he will invent a silly reason. I think this far enough down the list of real reasons to mess with you as to not worry about it.

 

[Jim K]

In a criminal case, the more important issue would be whether a claim of self defense is upheld, regardless of the weapon used. A modified trigger, removal of a safety, use of a "nasty weapon" like a machinegun, all could be brought in by an anti-gun DA but the main issue would be self defense.

Introduction of issues like a modified gun would be more likely in a civil suit, where the plaintiff's attorney has a lot more leeway, and such issues could be brought up, since the issues of recklessness, disregard for safety, etc., could be introduced.

Jim

 

[Frank Ettin]

I'm going to cut this one off.

This subject has been discussed at length numerous times, and there haven't been any new insights. Pretty much everything that can be said on the subject has been said here, here, here, and here.