Abstract: A pistol-type signal launcher having a spring-actuated hammer carrying the firing pin, a pivotally mounted barrel releasably retained in firing position by a plunger which is biased toward the barrel support cam by a spring which may also bias the trigger toward cocked position with the sear in engagement with the hammer base, and a dog suspended at a point in the breech in a position to prevent the sear from releasing the hammer when the launcher is aimed in any direction except upward at an angle of at least 45.degree., such upward aiming of the launcher causing the dog to swing by gravity out of the path of the sear, permitting the hammer to be fired.

Abstract: A pistol-type signal launcher having a spring-actuated hammer carrying the firing pin, a pivotally mounted barrel releasably retained in firing position by a plunger which is biased toward the barrel support cam by a spring which also biases the trigger toward cocked position, moving the sear into engagement with the hammer base; the hammer spring acts on the hammer through a rebound cam.