Security apparatus for authorizing use of a non-impact firearm

A security apparatus for use in authorizing the discharge of a firearm having a firing mechanism, said security apparatus comprising:

• a mode determination means for determining an operational mode of said firearm, said mode determining means including a sensor assembly for determining a status of an operational parameter of said firearm;
• an authorization sensor for detecting if an operator of said firearm is authorized to fire said firearm, wherein said security apparatus permits generation of a firing signal only if said operational mode is determined to be an intent to fire mode and said operator is detected to be an authorized operator;
• and
• said sensor assembly comprises a grip sensor for detecting said operator's grip on said firearm, wherein said grip sensor comprises a plurality of pressure sensitive switches oriented adjacent a grip portion of said firearm, wherein actuation of any one of said plurality of pressure sensitive switches changes said operational mode of said. firearm from a sleep mode to an awake mode.