CRFSC Safe Firearm Handling 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is a 'hangfire' and why is it dangerous?
- A fire caused by an overheated barrel after rapid firing
- A delayed ignition that occurs seconds after the trigger is pulled (Correct answer)
- A malfunction where the firearm discharges when the action is opened
- The condition when the firing pin strikes but the primer does not ignite
Correct answer: A delayed ignition that occurs seconds after the trigger is pulled
A hangfire is a delayed ignition that can occur several seconds after the trigger pull, so the muzzle must remain pointed in a safe direction while waiting.
Question 2: What is the purpose of the 'prove it safe' procedure in Canada?
- To demonstrate marksmanship proficiency to a range officer
- To confirm a firearm is unloaded by opening the action and visually and physically inspecting the chamber (Correct answer)
- To register a newly acquired firearm with the RCMP
- To show a peace officer that you have a valid licence
Correct answer: To confirm a firearm is unloaded by opening the action and visually and physically inspecting the chamber
The ACTS and PROVE procedures require opening the action and visually and physically confirming the firearm is unloaded before handling.
Question 3: When crossing an obstacle such as a fence while hunting, what is the correct way to handle your firearm?
- Keep the firearm loaded but engage the safety before crossing
- Unload the firearm before crossing and pass it safely to a companion or set it down on the other side first (Correct answer)
- Carry the firearm over your shoulder with the muzzle pointing upward
- Hold the firearm by the barrel and swing it over the obstacle
Correct answer: Unload the firearm before crossing and pass it safely to a companion or set it down on the other side first
Firearms must be unloaded when crossing obstacles such as fences or streams; pass it through or lay it down first to avoid a fall causing an accidental discharge.
Question 4: A squib load produces less than normal recoil and sound. What is the correct response?
- Fire a second round to push the obstruction through
- Stop firing immediately, unload, and check the barrel for an obstruction before firing again (Correct answer)
- Increase the powder charge on the next round to compensate
- Engage the safety and continue shooting at a reduced pace
Correct answer: Stop firing immediately, unload, and check the barrel for an obstruction before firing again
A squib load leaves a bullet lodged in the barrel; firing a subsequent round into an obstructed barrel can cause a catastrophic failure.
Question 5: Which carry method allows the fastest muzzle control over a wide arc and is recommended when walking with others?
- Port carry — firearm held diagonally across the chest (Correct answer)
- Two-hand carry with the muzzle pointed skyward at all times
- Trail carry — firearm in one hand at the side, muzzle down
- Sling carry with the muzzle pointed rearward
Correct answer: Port carry — firearm held diagonally across the chest
The port (or ready) carry keeps the firearm across the body with both hands, allowing rapid muzzle redirection while pointing in a generally safe direction.
Question 6: What risk does an improper grip present when firing a semi-automatic pistol?
- It increases the chance of a barrel obstruction
- It can cause 'limp-wristing,' leading to failures to cycle and potential malfunctions (Correct answer)
- It accelerates carbon buildup on the slide
- It reduces accuracy but poses no safety risk
Correct answer: It can cause 'limp-wristing,' leading to failures to cycle and potential malfunctions
A weak or limp-wrist grip fails to provide the resistance needed for the slide to cycle fully, causing stovepipes or failures to feed that can require unsafe immediate action.
Question 7: Under the CRFSC framework, what does 'ACTS' stand for?
- Assume loaded, Control muzzle direction, Trigger discipline, See your target (Correct answer)
- Aim carefully, Check chamber, Test trigger, Secure firearm
- Always loaded, Clear the area, Trigger off, Store safely
- Action open, Chamber clear, Target safe, Safety on
Correct answer: Assume loaded, Control muzzle direction, Trigger discipline, See your target
ACTS is the Canadian safe-handling mnemonic: Assume every firearm is loaded; Control the muzzle direction; Trigger finger off until ready to shoot; See your target and what is beyond.
CRFSC Safe Firearm Handling 3
What is a 'hangfire' and why is it dangerous?