What do most action movies get wrong about how guns work?

Action movies have long been a source of entertainment and intense action sequences. However, these films often neglect to portray guns in a realistic manner, which can be misleading to many viewers. This article delves into some of the most common oversights in the portrayal of firearms, highlighting the importance of realism in storytelling.

Magazine Capacity and Reloading

One of the primary inaccuracies in action movies is the depiction of magazine capacity. Films often show characters firing an endless stream of bullets, regardless of the magazine size. This is frequently seen in scenarios where a character fires 20 rounds from a Glock 17, which has a maximum capacity of only 17 rounds. Such overstatements make the characters seem invincible and disregard the limitations of real-world firearms. Additionally, the slide or bolt lock open when the magazine is empty is rarely shown, which is a crucial detail in understanding the operation and limitations of a firearm.

Recoil and Handling

The visual effect of recoil is another area where action movies often fall short of realism. The explosive aftermath of a gunshot is often exaggerated, which can confuse viewers about the actual experience of using a firearm. Realistically, the recoil is a powerful force that every shooter must contend with, affecting their accuracy and the need for appropriate handling techniques. Action sequences in movies often neglect to capture even a fraction of this reality.

Firearms Training and Shooting Stances

Perhaps one of the most glaring oversights in action films is the handling of firearms by the characters. Movies frequently depict police officers and professionals who are also assassins with grips and shooting stances that belie a lack of firearms training. The infamous "cup and saucer" stance, popularized by Charlie's Angels, is a hallmark of this inauthentic portrayal. The basic rules of muzzle discipline are often ignored in action scenes, with characters carelessly sweeping their muzzles in front of each other and moving around with their guns pointed at others. These inaccuracies can be easily noticed by anyone with even a modicum of gun handling experience.

Realism in Modern Films: A Case Study

Despite these common inaccuracies, there are instances where filmmakers have brought a higher degree of realism to the action genre. The John Wick series stands out as an example of a film that gets firearms right. Taran Butler, a highly successful competitive shooter, served as the technical advisor for the series. This collaboration resulted in a more realistic portrayal of firearms, making Keanu Reeves's character's skills and reactions more believable. Reeves spent several weeks training with Butler to ensure that his performance embodied a true understanding of gun usage and handling.

In conclusion, while action movies continue to delight audiences with thrilling and suspenseful scenes, it is essential for filmmakers to strive for greater realism in their depiction of firearms. Accuracy in portraying the operation, recoil, and handling of guns can enhance the authenticity of the film and avoid misleading the audience. Further, collaboration with experts in the field can significantly improve the quality of gun-related scenes and convey a more accurate representation of firearms and their use.