Why a squib load can make your gun explode and where the pressure goes

Consequences of Firing After a Squib Load

The discussion focuses on what happens when a round is fired behind a squib load that is already lodged in the barrel. Firing another cartridge in this condition can cause a violent failure, sometimes described as a kaboom. Depending on the ammunition brand and firearm quality, the gun may be severely damaged and the shooter may be injured. In some cases, a stronger firearm might manage to push both projectiles out of the barrel, but this is not guaranteed. Lower quality guns or components are more likely to fail catastrophically. The key point is that the obstruction forces pressure to build rapidly, and the firearm may not be able to contain it safely.

How Pressure Escapes in a Handgun Failure

The presenter explains that when a squib blocks the barrel, the propellant gases and energy must find another way out because they cannot move forward. The pressure will usually follow the path of least resistance, often traveling down the magazine well. If the striker assembly or back plate area is weak, the pressure can blow the striker out the rear of the slide. This rearward failure occurs because the front of the barrel is obstructed, preventing normal gas expansion. The explanation emphasizes that the energy will always go somewhere, and weak points in the handgun’s design or materials are the most likely locations for parts to fail or be ejected.

Recognizing an Out-of-Battery Condition

Attention is given to noticing when a handgun is not fully in battery. The slide position can indicate that something is wrong, such as a squib or other obstruction preventing the slide from closing completely. Observing that the pistol is out of battery serves as a warning sign not to fire. The presenter notes the importance of stopping immediately when this condition is seen, rather than forcing the gun to fire. Recognizing this visual cue can prevent a dangerous overpressure event, since attempting to shoot with the slide partially open or the barrel obstructed increases the risk of parts failing and pressure venting in unpredictable directions.

Identifying and Showing a Squib Load

The video then demonstrates handling a suspected squib load. The presenter clears the firearm, sets the ammunition aside, and confirms that a squib round is present. The squib is identified by the abnormal feel and sound when it was fired, which differed from a normal cartridge. After safely unloading, the lodged projectile is located and visually shown, confirming that it did not exit the barrel. The segment reinforces that recognizing the unusual recoil impulse or report is critical. Once detected, the correct response is to stop shooting, clear the firearm, and inspect the barrel to verify whether a projectile remains stuck inside before any further firing.