What should be done if the firearm has been damaged or is not working properly?

• A. Continue cleaning and ignore the issue
• B. Take it to a qualified gunsmith for repair
• C. Discard the firearm
• D. Attempt DIY fix without training

Answer: (B)

When a firearm is damaged or not working properly, safety must come first. A compromised firearm can fail in dangerous ways, potentially causing serious injury. A qualified gunsmith has the training, tools, and spare parts to accurately diagnose the problem, repair or replace worn or broken components, and test the weapon to ensure it operates safely and reliably. They can check critical aspects like timing, headspace, and safety mechanisms to verify proper function before the gun is used again.

Ignore-it or DIY fixes are unsafe: continuing to use a malfunctioning gun or attempting to repair it without proper training can make the problem worse and create new hazards. Discarding the firearm is unnecessary and wasteful when a trained professional can restore it. The right course is to take it to a qualified gunsmith for repair.