A key part of most modern semi-automatic handguns, the disconnector is typically integrated into the trigger bar and serves two main functions. First, it disengages the trigger from the sear, hammer, or striker when the slide moves back, and the barrel unlocks during firing. This requires the shooter to release the trigger, or “reset” it, to fire the next shot. Secondly, the disconnector serves the purpose of preventing a handgun from being fired out of battery, or when a round is partially in the chamber, but the slide is not fully engaged.