Firearm Malfunctions and Stoppages Flashcards

When dealing with a misfire, which step must come FIRST?

Answer: Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction

Keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction is always the first step, as a potential hangfire could cause a delayed discharge at any moment.

Why is it essential to keep a firearm pointed in a safe direction after a suspected misfire?

Answer: Because a hangfire could cause a delayed ignition and discharge

A misfire could actually be a hangfire, where delayed ignition occurs seconds after the apparent failure to fire.

After waiting 30 seconds and removing a misfired cartridge, you should inspect it to:

Answer: Check whether the primer shows a firing pin indentation

Inspecting the primer for a firing pin indent helps determine if the malfunction was a light primer strike (firearm issue) or a defective cartridge (ammunition issue).

Which symptom most likely indicates a squib load has occurred?

Answer: A noticeably quieter sound and reduced recoil compared to normal firing

A squib load produces significantly reduced sound and felt recoil because the propellant charge is insufficient to develop normal pressure.

What is a 'stovepipe' malfunction?

Answer: A spent cartridge case caught partially ejected and standing upright in the ejection port

A stovepipe occurs when a spent case is not fully ejected and stands upright in the ejection port, resembling a stovepipe chimney.

What is the standard technique to clear a stovepipe malfunction on a semi-automatic pistol?

Answer: Sweep the case out of the ejection port with your hand, then rack the slide

Sweeping the partially ejected case clear of the ejection port and then racking the slide chambers a fresh round and clears the malfunction.

What is a double feed malfunction?

Answer: When two cartridges attempt to enter the chamber at the same time

A double feed occurs when a new cartridge attempts to enter the chamber while a previous case or unfired round is still present.