Can one make a semi-automatic handgun automatic?
Ignoring for the moment the question of legality, it is conceptually possible. It isn’t going to be anything as simple as filing down a single pin in most cases. Regulating automatic fire has its own complexities. Unless you’re not worrying about controlling it. In that case, you could turn almost any semi into an auto by converting it into an open-bolt weapon. Just pill put the hammer and trigger, and glue or weld the firing pin in the forward position. When you drop the slide on a loaded magazine, hold on tight! By the way, not only is that illegal, it’s unsafe, particularly in larger caliber guns. There’s obviously no way to stop it from firing once it starts, and it also prevents the gun from locking into battery before it fires. Consider this as a thought experiment only!
