{"id":1475,"date":"2023-12-29T17:36:11","date_gmt":"2023-12-29T17:36:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/?p=1475"},"modified":"2023-12-29T17:36:11","modified_gmt":"2023-12-29T17:36:11","slug":"handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/?p=1475","title":{"rendered":"Handgun Service Life: What It Means and How To Extend It"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"article-image\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<p>When referring to firearms, especially for self-defense or duty, the term \u2018service life\u2019 often surfaces. There\u2019s a lot of mixed information regarding <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">handgun<\/a> service life, with different law enforcement, military, and civilian standards. But what does that really mean, and is there anything we can do to extend it?\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2>What is service life?<\/h2>\n<p>Handgun service life is often referenced in two different manners. First, is a measure of the duration of time the firearm can be used in a specific role. This tends to be before any parts failure or significant malfunctions. Police and military units set their own service life standards, based on what <em>they<\/em> require.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"S&amp;W 340 and 686\" class=\"wp-image-92768 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1310.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1310.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1310.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1310.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1310.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"S&amp;W 340 and 686\" class=\"wp-image-92768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1310.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1310.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1310.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Firearms like the 340PD may not have the longest service life, but they excel in other areas, such as being very lightweight and concealable. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>These departments or units will adopt pistols that meet or exceed these standards. The firearm manufacturer will likely recommend a period of time or round count when you should perform preventative maintenance. You will likely develop your own regulations that work for your own views and shooting habits.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-2 ai-viewport-2 ai-viewport-3\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--Mid Article Ad for Mobile and Tablet--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/bulk\/\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bulk_ammo_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bulk_ammo_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<p>The second reference to service life is the expected lifetime of the firearm in general. This typically means with proper use and <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/how-to-cleaning-schedules-for-handguns-shotguns-rifles-and-ar-15s\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">maintenance<\/a>, and will require parts replacement as individual components break or wear out. In this manner, a quality handgun will typically last generations.<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-1 ai-viewport-1\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--Mid Article Ad for Desktop--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/bulk\/\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" align=\"center\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bulk_ammo_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/bulk_ammo_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;ssl=1\" align=\"center\" px=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<p>At this point you may be asking, \u201cHow do you know if your firearm has reached the end of its service life?\u201d That really depends on how many\/which parts fail. If you crack a slide or frame, it may be time for a new gun. If you just shoot out a barrel, that\u2019s an easy replacement. Plenty of high-volume shooters end up replacing an entire gun one part at a time as it wears. If you notice your accuracy or reliability beginning to deteriorate, things may need to be worked on.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>There are two different types of wear \u2014 wear from carry and wear from shooting\/dry fire. Carry wear is typically superficial and does not affect function. Many carry guns will have finish wear from drawing in and out of a holster. Sweat and oil from the body can cause rust and make the gun look more used than it actually is.<\/p>\n<p>Wear from shooting is a different story. Every round fired is another miniature explosion that the gun is forced to contain. Firing the gun also works the action, compressing\/decompressing springs, locking\/unlocking the barrel, ejecting spent brass, rubbing the slide and frame. All of these will result in wear on your gun over time.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>With roughly a 30,000-round minimum expected service life before parts breakage, the average pistol has a long way to go. Many shooters get tired of the same gun and trade it within a few years. However, for those who frequent the range often or shoot competition, that number can be reached in a couple of seasons.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"390\" alt=\"Disassembled Glock 19\" class=\"wp-image-92767 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1307.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1307.jpg?resize=300%2C183&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1307.jpg?resize=150%2C91&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1307.jpg?resize=640%2C390&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"390\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1307.jpg?resize=640%2C390&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Disassembled Glock 19\" class=\"wp-image-92767\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1307.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1307.jpg?resize=300%2C183&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1307.jpg?resize=150%2C91&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>The simplicity of the Glock makes it very user serviceable. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Even regular shooters who put a box or two of ammo downrange every couple weeks will put around 2,600 rounds a year (that\u2019s a little over 10 years to reach that 30,000 mark). However, the truth is most people won\u2019t even dream of reaching the end of their handgun\u2019s service life. They simply don\u2019t shoot it enough \u2014 often, not at all.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2>Cleaning and Maintenance<\/h2>\n<p>Having a good cleaning and maintenance schedule can help you extend the life of your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">firearm<\/a>. It will also keep it more reliable. Excessive carbon fouling and powder buildup can contribute to uneven and premature parts wear. This gunk and uneven wear on moving parts creates extra friction in action, which can induce malfunctions.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>I like to clean my firearms after every trip to the range. This prevents carbon buildup from getting out of hand. It also provides a good opportunity to inspect for damage or unnatural wear. Even guns that are stored in the safe get a good wipe down and re-oiling every few months or so to keep them in top shape. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/gun-care\/gun-lubrication\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Oiling<\/a> helps reduce the friction between the moving parts of your firearm to prevent malfunctions and excessive wear. It will also protect the metal and ward off rust.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>All springs on your firearm will eventually wear, but the recoil spring is one to keep an eye on in particular. The recoil spring is responsible for providing the pressure and resistance to properly operate the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/semi-automatic\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">semi-automatic<\/a> action. As you shoot, the spring is compressed and released as the slide works forward and rearward to chamber\/eject rounds.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Gun cleaning supplies\" class=\"wp-image-92769 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1311.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1311.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1311.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1311.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1311.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Gun cleaning supplies\" class=\"wp-image-92769\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1311.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1311.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1311.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Keeping your firearms cleaned and maintained will help extend their service life.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Recoil springs are tuned to certain poundages to reliably operate the firearm based on factors such as slide weight and caliber. As the spring is worked, it will slowly become weaker\/lighter. Eventually, it will not have enough force to fully eject or chamber ammunition and will need to be replaced.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2>Ammo Selection<\/h2>\n<p>Your handgun service life is also dependent on the type of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ammunition<\/a> you use and how often you shoot. Ammunition such as +P or +P+ offer superior ballistics, but will result in additional wear to the firearm. Your firearm was designed to handle ammunition loaded to a specific pressure to operate with standard ammo. Whether it\u2019s rated for increased pressure loads or not, the extra blast will create more wear and shorten your firearm\u2019s service life.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Similarly, higher-pressure calibers such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/handgun-ammo\/?fq=CALIBER%3A.40+S&amp;W=&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">.40 S&amp;W<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/handgun-ammo\/?fq=CALIBER%3A.357+SIG&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">.357 SIG<\/a> will wear more than low-pressure numbers such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/handgun-ammo\/45-acp-or-45-auto\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">.45 ACP<\/a>. This is just the nature of the round. This does not mean you shouldn\u2019t use these, just pay extra attention to the firearm for possible wear or damage.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-4 ai-viewport-2 ai-viewport-3\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--End of Article Ad for Mobile and Tablet--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/contest.html?cid=contest?utm_source=CTD_Blog_AD&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=blog_range_day_friday_mobile&amp;utm_content=square\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/rdf_dec23_ad_mobile.jpg?w=640&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/rdf_dec23_ad_mobile.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-3 ai-viewport-1\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--End of Article Ad for Desktop--><br \/>\n <img decoding=\"async\" align=\"center\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/rdf_dec23_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/rdf_dec23_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;ssl=1\" align=\"center\" px=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/div>\n<p>Additionally, extended rapid-fire shooting will create more heat and cause excessive wear. 10\u201320 fast mag dumps per range session will add up.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2>Top Handguns<\/h2>\n<p>As you may imagine, some handguns will have a longer service life than others. This is due to several variables, but it\u2019s primarily a sum of parts quality and level of manufacture. However, more money doesn\u2019t always get you a longer service life. It also largely depends on the handgun design.<\/p>\n<p>Some older designs may require more upkeep and, as a result of the technology at the time of manufacture, may have a more limited service life. Early cast parts and alloy frames simply cannot take that kind of abuse. Simplicity plays a role as well. Fewer overall parts provides fewer points of failure. This is what makes the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/?fq=brand%3AGLOCK&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Glock<\/a> pistol and other striker-fired designs so popular.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"HK USP45 leaning on tree\" class=\"wp-image-92766 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1303.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1303.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1303.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1303.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1303.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"HK USP45 leaning on tree\" class=\"wp-image-92766\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1303.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1303.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1303.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>The USP is known for its long service life.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/?fq=brand%3AH&amp;K=&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HK<\/a> USP is another popular handgun design known for its durability. Based on the MK23 Offensive Handgun Weapon System developed for SOCOM, the USP was designed with durability at the forefront. No, it doesn\u2019t have a 3-pound match trigger, but it features robust components designed for reliable ignition and consistent reliability.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Firearms from manufacturers such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/?fq=brand%3ATaurus&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Taurus<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/?fq=brand%3ASCCY+Industries&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SCCY<\/a>, and other import firearms come in at a lower price. However, they tend not to be built to the same standard. Tolerances are looser and parts are cheaper. They are not junk by any means, but they may require more upkeep to keep them running as they should and offer a lower service life.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/revolvers\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Revolvers<\/a> offer their own specific quirks in regards to service life. The timing may go out. This means the cylinder holes no longer fully align with the barrel. This will require gunsmith work to get right again. Further, springs may get jossled out of position if dropped or banged around. This is not to say all wheel guns have a short service life. In fact, there are many classic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/?fq=brand%3AS&amp;W=&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">S&amp;W<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/handguns\/?fq=brand%3AColt&amp;utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Colt<\/a> revolvers still kicking today. They simply require their own specialized care.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"345\" alt=\"S&amp;W 686+ Snub Nose on Bricks\" class=\"wp-image-92765 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1288.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1288.jpg?resize=300%2C162&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1288.jpg?resize=150%2C81&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1288.jpg?resize=640%2C345&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"345\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1288.jpg?resize=640%2C345&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"S&amp;W 686+ Snub Nose on Bricks\" class=\"wp-image-92765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1288.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1288.jpg?resize=300%2C162&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cleaning-Maintenance_1288.jpg?resize=150%2C81&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Revolvers face their own challenges when it comes to service life.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n<p>With a better understanding of handgun service life, we can properly maintain and care for our firearms so they last as long as possible. This is a good reason to purchase a gun of good quality, as it will likely outlast you with proper use.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h4><strong>How do you measure your handgun service life? What preventative maintenance do you perform to keep your firearms working smoothly? Share your thoughts in the Comment section.<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><span id=\"tve_leads_end_content\" style=\"display: block; visibility: hidden; border: 1px solid transparent;\"\/><!-- AI CONTENT END 1 -->\n\t<\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=handgun-service-life-what-it-means-and-how-to-extend-it\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When referring to firearms, especially for self-defense or duty, the term \u2018service life\u2019 often surfaces. There\u2019s a lot of mixed information regarding handgun service life, with different law enforcement, military, and civilian standards. But what does that really mean, and is there anything we can do to extend it?\u00a0 What is service life? Handgun service [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1476,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1475","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-gun-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1475","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1475"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1475\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1476"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1475"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1475"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1475"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}