Microstamping: Doesn't Work On Flintlock Pistols Either

Another argument that keeps popping up on various blogs is the idea that microstamping doesn't work on revolvers.

I will agree 100%, doesn't offer benefit for revolver based incidents if they don't drop their cartridges. this is why we had targeted semi-automatic handguns.

Another argument is microstamping will just create a shift in criminal firepower selection, by creating a deterrent to using semi-automatic firearms. The argument is you could drive criminals towards revolvers or to knives or baseball bats.

We don’t see a downside. Use of a revolver means that they are limited to six rounds per engagement or it offers their intended victim the chance to escape with their lives. Revolvers used in crime tend to not have the same impact as a semi-automatic handgun.

Reducing a criminal’s firepower is a benefit, if microstamping shifts them from semi-auto handguns to revolvers, once again we don’t see a downside.

Plainly speaking firepower is the amount of damage you can cause within a given time frame. However, effective firepower is a combination of variables including the type of firearm, the ammunition, and most importantly the gun handling skill of the shooter.

Firing a revolver accurately takes more skill than a semi-auto handgun. And when you have no skill at all in firing, odds are you are not going to do as much damage.

Another point is revolvers are “dual action”; the criminal has to pull the trigger fully for each round fired where as semi-auto are typically single action firearms.

Most drive by shootings cause death by the fact that a hail of bullets is fired randomly.

Others incidents are close quarter engagements where the need for skilled aiming was not necessary.

The issue is there is a rise of semi-automatic handguns being used. Microstamping makes sense for that segment.