The results of simulation and experimental research on a pyrotechnically actuated automatic mechanism are presented. A simulation model was constructed in MSC ADAMS. The driving force was determined based on field trial results, which provided values of the gas pressure in the gas cylinders during the operation of the actual device. Verification of numerically calculated kinematic parameters was based on high-speed camera recordings of the mechanism’s motion in field conditions. Numerical studies first examined how variations in the gas piston force affected kinematics, then how different friction coefficients influenced motion. The results confirmed the usefulness of the model and its potential for analyzing destructive effects on kinematic and dynamic parameters. All simulations and experiments were used to develop an expert system that assesses how selected factors affect the correctness of mechanism operation. This work may serve as an important tool supporting personnel in the proper handling of this kind of machines.