What should you do if your firearm misfires?

When a firearm misfires, it is essential to safely assess the situation to prevent any potential accidents. Pointing the firearm at the ground and waiting for a few moments is the recommended action because it allows time for any potential hangfire to resolve. A hangfire occurs when there is a delay between the trigger being pulled and the round firing, which can lead to an unexpected discharge if the firearm is handled improperly.

This safety measure ensures that if the round does fire after a misfire, it will be directed safely towards the ground rather than in an unintended direction. It’s crucial to maintain control and caution with firearms in any misfire situation, focusing on handling them in a manner that prioritizes safety for yourself and those around you. Other actions, such as immediately checking the chamber or unloading the firearm, may not provide enough time to ensure safety due to the risk of a hangfire, while firing again could exacerbate the situation, risking injury or damage.