How to Break Down a Semi-Automatic Pistol for Cleaning

Series Summary

The sport of target shooting with various types of firearms began in America during the Civil War, when Col. William C. Church and Gen. George Wingate formed the National Rifle Association in an attempt to improve marksmanship woes in the military. Over the years, contests and competitions have fostered a wide range of shooting sports. Handgun shooting sports such as the ISSF Pistol shooting contest are an Olympic event. In this free video clip series, our expert will demonstrate the basics of handgun target shooting and introduce the beginner marksman to the shooting sport. Watch demonstrations on proper grip, breathing and using sights on your handgun for best results. Clearing a cartridge jam instructions and shooting range rules are included.

Video Transcript

"Hi! This is John with Expert Village. Now that we’ve shot the weapon, next thing we’re going to do is take off our eyes and ears and break down the gun ready for cleaning. After every time you fire the gun, you want to clean the weapon. This segment is going to be specific to the HK 40 USP, but for all semi automatic pistols, this is the basic components that come in your firearm. To do your firearm, consult your owner’s manual for all the information needed for that. Now, pick up the weapon, make sure to check it. Make sure it’s empty. Now, we’re going to push this pin in here which is going to release the slide lock. Now the side’s able to come off very gently. You have the bottom and place that to the side. Now we have the spring, the barrel comes out, and we have the side itself. Those are basic components of the HK 40 USP compact. And now the weapon’s ready for cleaning, reassembly, and be ready to fire again for next time. This is John from Expert Village. "