Most firearms have mechanical device built into the firing mechanism that inhibits the firearm from firing. This is called a "safety."
The M16 series, for example, have a selector switch in which the shooter can select from:
1- SAFE--gun will not fire if trigger is pulled
2- SEMI--gun will fire one bullet when trigger is pulled
3- AUTO--gun will fire several bullets when trigger is pulled, until out of ammo, or trigger is released
4- THREE ROUND BURST--gun will fire 3 bullets with each pull of the trigger*
*The 3 round burst function uses a geared cog, and may fire only 1, or 2, or 3 bullets per squeeze of the trigger, depending on which cog tooth was engaged when burst was selected.
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ANY mechanical system- including the safety on a firearm- CAN fail. This is the reason for the basic firearm safety rules- including "do not point a firearm at anything you do not mean to shoot." It is rare, but CAN happen.
It prevents the firearm from discharging before the shooter means to have it discharge.
Learning to, and handling a firearm in such a manner as to not cause unintended harm or damage.
To insure that a firearm is in safe condition to use.
To prevent a premature or unintended discharge of the firearm. It does NOT replace common sense.
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Different places on different guns.
To render the firearm incapable of firing.
When you do not intend to fire the weapon.
Consider every gun loaded
Request one from the issuing agency