What does a runaway gun result from?

A runaway gun occurs when a firearm continues to fire without the trigger being actuated, typically due to mechanical failure. The primary cause of this malfunction is a worn or broken sear notch. The sear notch is a critical component in a weapon's firing mechanism that engages and holds the hammer or firing pin in a cocked position. When this component fails, it can lead to a situation where the gun fires uncontrollably, as the firing mechanism does not properly engage or disengage as it should.

In this context, faulty ammunition would not typically cause a runaway gun, as that would relate more to issues like misfires or failures to fire rather than continuous firing. A clean weapon is actually desirable for proper functioning, as buildup or debris can hinder operation. Lastly, proper trigger discipline encourages safe handling practices that prevent accidental discharges, but it does not address mechanical failures that lead to runaway guns. Thus, the emphasis on the sear notch is crucial in understanding this specific malfunction in firearms.