What component of the M9 is responsible for preventing accidental discharge?

The component responsible for preventing accidental discharge in the M9 is the decocking/safety lever, firing pin block, and half-cock safety notch. Each of these components plays a critical role in ensuring the firearm is safe to handle when not intended for use.

The decocking/safety lever allows the shooter to safely lower the hammer without discharging the weapon, effectively preventing accidental firing when the weapon is in a ready position.

The firing pin block acts as a mechanical safety feature that physically prevents the firing pin from moving forward unless the trigger is pulled in the proper manner. This integration provides an additional layer of safety that can help prevent accidental discharge during handling or manipulation.

The half-cock safety notch serves as another mechanism that can prevent the firing pin from striking the cartridge unless the trigger is fully engaged. This design is particularly beneficial if the hammer slips during cocking, allowing it to catch in the half-cock position instead of falling fully forward.

Since all these features together contribute significantly to the safety and reliability of the M9, they collectively ensure that accidental discharges are minimized effectively. Thus, the comprehensive design reflects a commitment to safety within firearm operation.