In Praise of the Manual Safety: Striking a Balance between Readiness and Safety
Gun ownership is a topic that sparks strong opinions and debates, especially when it comes to the issue of manual safeties. Some argue that relying solely on self-control is sufficient to ensure safety, dismissing the need for manual safeties on firearms. However, I would like to present an alternative perspective.
Contrary to popular belief, manual safeties should not be viewed as hindrances to readiness. We can all agree that the highest state of readiness for a gun owner is to be prepared with a firearm in hand, ready to neutralize any potential threat. However, we must strike a balance between practicality, safety, and readiness.
One approach to finding this equilibrium is to carry one firearm in a low-ready position, with the pistol pointing downward at a 45° angle, while leaving another gun safely stored away. This allows for a slightly less practical yet still effective way to deter potential attackers. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to practice transitioning from a low-ready position to on-target shooting.
Of course, it may not be feasible or comfortable for everyone to walk around all day with a pistol in the low-ready position. In such cases, carrying a firearm in a securely attached leather or thermoplastic holster on the hip can provide both safety and convenience.
By employing this method, we significantly increase the safety factor. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that with heightened safety, there is often a sacrifice in readiness. This is where training becomes paramount.
Drawing the firearm and smoothly transitioning to the target must be practiced diligently. One can extend this logic further, even considering storing the pistol with a gun lock, in a case, and keeping the ammunition in the glovebox of a locked car trunk. While safety is maximized in such conditions, the readiness to defend oneself diminishes significantly.
Finding the right balance between safety and readiness is a deeply personal endeavor. Each individual must determine their own acceptable equilibrium. For some, a manual safety may be considered an excessive precaution that compromises readiness.
However, for those like myself, the manual safety represents a perfect compromise. I dedicate time and effort to training and practice while utilizing a holster. Furthermore, I choose a firearm equipped not only with a grip safety but also with a manual safety. Through consistent training, drawing the firearm, disengaging the safety, and aligning the sights with the target become one fluid motion.
In a real-life scenario where adrenaline rushes and stress levels soar, many argue that one might forget to disengage the safety. However, based on my experience and belief, what we train for, what we rehearse, and what we ingrain into muscle memory will manifest when it is most needed.
If a manual safety doesn’t align with your personal scale of preference, then by all means, do not use one. The benefits and peace of mind derived from a safety must be balanced with the incremental reduction in readiness. It is a choice that varies from person to person.
Ultimately, responsible gun ownership requires an individualized approach to safety and readiness. By practicing, training, and finding the optimal balance, we can enhance our ability to protect ourselves and our loved ones in critical situations. The debate surrounding manual safeties will likely persist, but it is crucial for us to respect diverse perspectives and engage in constructive conversations that prioritize safety and readiness above all else.
