To modify or not to modify - tis the question

[Redbeard]

Competition trigger vs. the standard, wow what a difference! Tried one out at the range today and I was so impressed, I started considering the possibility of getting the same done to both my 4” and Subcompact, which I use for CCW. Now here’s my dilemma, I’m getting some input from folks that indicates that modifying my handguns might cause some legal “issues” should I be involved in a an “altercation” Is there any truth to this? Does anyone have any input regarding where I might find some info regarding this situation?

[robinsre]

There's a billion theories on this.

Some people say "modify it to your liking" others say "never modify a carry gun".

Before I give mine I'd like to chime in by first giving the I AM NOT A LAWYER disclaimer.

Do not take my advice. Do not take my advice while driving or operating heavy machinery. Taking my advice may cause adverse side effects such as drowsiness, depression, fits of uncontrollable rage, water retention, and rectal bleeding. Consult a doctor before not taking my advice if you think you are or may become pregnant.

Now....

My opinion is as such :

Given the backlog of evidence in many police departments across the nation, what are the real chances they are going to tear your gun apart and inspect it for any possible non-oem parts after a justified shoot. I'd say its pretty nil. You may not get the gun back, but I doubt it would cause you any criminal grief.

As far as civil liability is concerned, if you shoot someone just accept that you are going to be sued. Get a good lawyer. Don't divulge any information they don't already know.

Therefore I would say, carry your firearm in whichever configuration you are most comfortable, fastest, and most accurate with. Avoid altercations at all cost, and if you are involved in one remember the 4 and ONLY 4 talking points :

1) Officer this man attacked me.
2) I was in fear for my life.
3) Here is the evidence.
4) You will have my full cooperation in 24 hours after I've spoken with legal counsel.

[snaf2006]

I to think about this. I did a search on google and came up with this if it helps. Legal issues facing gun modifications - TheFiringLine Forums

[XDanthony]

Check out the link in my signature; It may give you what you want for a CCW gun. Give Daniel@PRP a call, I am sure he can help you.

[bountyhunter]

Originally Posted by robinsre

Avoid altercations at all cost, and if you are involved in one remember the 4 and ONLY 4 talking points :

1) Officer this man attacked me.
2) I was in fear for my life.
3) Here is the evidence.
4) You will have my full cooperation in 24 hours after I've spoken with legal counsel.

#4 is the only talking point for any conversation with LE after a shooting. If necessary, apply Krazy Glue liberally to upper and lower lips to ensure this.

The cop is not there to "decide" whether you should be charged with a crime, the DA does that based on the total of evidence. It is the cop's job to gather that evidence and he will be writing down every word you say and noting every move you make.

The more you talk, the easier you make it for them to find something they can twist around and use to make charges on you.

[cmcarlile]

Originally Posted by robinsre

You may not get the gun back, but I doubt it would cause you any criminal grief.

They take your gun away after a self-defense situation? Do you ever get it back? Never been involved in this, so I don't know anything about it!

[m14]

One can never predict legal issues, but I think such a problem would be relatively more likely in a civil action, depending on the thoroughness of the plaintiff's investigator. The real issue is more of a practical matter. Any justified use of your weapon in a self defense situation is going to be at very close range. You simply don't need the small accuracy enhancement offered by a target trigger job. It would also make an AD more likely in a high-stress situation. I just don't see it as worth the potential problems it presents.

[AZXD40]

Originally Posted by cmcarlile

They take your gun away after a self-defense situation? Do you ever get it back? Never been involved in this, so I don't know anything about it!

I was involved in a defensive shooting about 8 years ago, against a perp who broke in through the front window and was abruptly redirected back out. A shotgun was involved. About 4 weeks after the judge declared it a justified defensive shooting I was called down to police evidence to pick up the weapon. Assuming the weapon is legal you should get it back.

Just my 2 cents..

[Lazarus]

Originally Posted by AZXD40

I was involved in a defensive shooting about 8 years ago, against a perp who broke in through the front window and was abruptly redirected back out. A shotgun was involved. About 4 weeks after the judge declared it a justified defensive shooting I was called down to police evidence to pick up the weapon. Assuming the weapon is legal you should get it back.

Just my 2 cents..

Ouch. What load did you use? I've heard of people in defensive shootings and it taking a very little time to get the gun back. Nikon posted a story of such nature in the Chatter Box.

[ForTehNguyen]

here in texas, if the law finds your situation was indeed self defense you are immune from civil lawuits from the attacker

Revised Castle Doctrine Law FTW