keeping handgun chambered

Question
I just started carrying a handgun.  I always keep it loaded and chambered, not only when I'm carrying, but pretty much all the time 24/7.  I wanted to know if this is a good idea or not.  I'm concerned if it will wear the firing spring out, or maybe cause a mechanical failure and discharge the gun.  Any advice would be very much appreciated.  Thanks

Answer
Eric,

If you are referring to a semi-auto pistol you will often hear it told that keeping it cocked can eventually have a negative effect on the spring loading part/s. I cannot rule it out since in the real world all things mechanical may eventually fail.

That said I can tell you that in over 40 years I have yet to personally experience a failure related to this issue. There are exceptions to everything and therefor you may not be as lucky however, in general I would not be too concerned about it.

I also need to through out the disclaimer here...... If in doubt periodically have the handgun inspected by a qualified gunsmith to include test firing. You may also want to solicit an opinion from customer service at the manufacture to include checking the owners manual.

If you are putting some practice rounds through it periodically (which you should be) I would think that IF you were going to have a problem that you would detect it during same.

I hope this helps and thanks for the question Eric.

Sid Lark