What should you do if a firearm malfunctions while shooting?

When a firearm malfunctions while shooting, the appropriate action is to inspect the firearm for issues and follow proper malfunction protocols. This approach ensures safety and prevents potential accidents that could arise from handling a malfunctioning firearm carelessly.

By inspecting the firearm, you can identify the type of malfunction—such as a failure to fire, a squib load, or a jam—and take the necessary steps to resolve the issue appropriately. Following established malfunction protocols minimizes the risk of injury. For example, if you encounter a failure to fire, waiting for a few moments before checking the chamber can help mitigate the risk of a delayed ignition from a live round.

Taking immediate action to fire again without assessing the situation could result in further complications or accidents. Leaving the firearm unattended without addressing the malfunction could also lead to unauthorized handling or a safety hazard. Asking someone else to handle the firearm could divert attention from the issue and potentially introduce more variables into an already dangerous situation. Therefore, directly assessing and addressing the malfunction is the best practice to ensure safety for yourself and those around you.