When Your Gun Fails to Fire: What to Do Next

What should you do if your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled?

• A. Open the action and remove the cartridge or shell
• B. Keep aiming and pull the trigger again
• C. Shake the firearm with the muzzle facing upwards
• D. Leave the firearm for a few minutes and then try again

Answer: (A)

Selecting to open the action and remove the cartridge or shell is the appropriate course of action if your firearm fails to fire when the trigger is pulled. This procedure is essential for ensuring safety, as there could be a misfire or a problem with the cartridge itself. Addressing the issue promptly minimizes the risk of a potential explosion or an unintended discharge. By opening the action, you can visually inspect the chamber and determine whether a round is still present and whether it has failed to ignite properly. This careful and methodical approach prioritizes safety and helps prevent any accidents that may occur from leaving a potentially problematic round in the chamber. The other choices present less safe methods; keeping the firearm aimed and pulling the trigger again could result in an accidental discharge, shaking the firearm is both dangerous and ineffective, and leaving the firearm for a few minutes could lead to dangerous conditions if the round was to fire unexpectedly.

When you're out at the range or in a self-defense situation, the last thing you want is for your firearm to fail when you pull the trigger. It's a chilling thought, isn't it? You know what I'm talking about—the adrenaline pumping, maybe a hint of anxiety in the air, and then—nothing. So, what do you do? The answer is critical not just for your safety but for everyone around you.

The Right Move: Open the Action

The smart play here is to open the action and remove the cartridge or shell. This isn’t just a good habit; it’s the responsible course of action in this potentially dangerous scenario. A firearm can misfire for various reasons—faulty ammo, an obstruction, or even a mechanical issue. By opening the action, you're not just following protocol; you're ensuring no one, including yourself, is at risk of an unintended discharge.

Safety First, Always

Now, let's think about it for a second. Imagine you ignore this step and decide to keep aiming and pull the trigger again. Guess what? You're essentially gambling with fate. Any seasoned gun owner will tell you that's a surefire way to create an unsafe environment. Not to mention, it's just common sense to assess the situation before jumping to conclusions.

Not only does opening the action allow you to visually inspect the chamber, but it engages you in a careful process that prioritizes safety. Understanding the firearm's mechanics offers insight into your weapon and builds confidence. There's nothing quite like the assurance that comes from knowing your firearm inside and out.

Misfires: A Too Common Occurrence

Misfires don't just happen to the unskilled. Even the most experienced shooters occasionally encounter a round that just won't ignite. This happens for several reasons, including moisture in the primer or simply a defect in the cartridge. It’s vital to address this swiftly and calmly to ensure your firearm doesn’t become a liability.

What NOT to Do

Now that we’ve established the correct step, let's chat about what NOT to do. For starters, shaking the firearm with the muzzle facing upwards? Nope! That's risky and can easily lead to an accidental discharge, which is the last thing anyone wants. Similarly, leaving the gun for a few minutes and then coming back to it might sound tempting, but it could lead to unexpected—and extremely dangerous—results if that round decides to fire.

Dive into the Details

When your gun doesn’t fire, take that moment to calmly assess the situation. A methodical approach can make all the difference. Is the failed round still in the chamber? If so, what's keeping it from firing? Gaining a clear picture of what’s going on allows you to make informed decisions, and trust me, that’s invaluable.

In conclusion, understanding what to do when faced with a misfire can keep you—and those around you—much safer. You’ve got to answer to more than just yourself out there. So, remember this: open the action, clear the chamber, and always prioritize safety. Don't let a moment of panic turn into a regrettable accident. Instead, let it be a chance to enhance your competence as a responsible firearm owner. By ensuring proper handling, you're stepping up as a community member committed to safety, responsibility, and education. That’s something to be proud of!