What action should you take during a firearm malfunction?

When dealing with a firearm malfunction, the safest action is to keep the gun pointed downrange and wait before inspecting it. This practice is rooted in fundamental firearm safety principles. Pointing the firearm downrange minimizes the risk of an accidental discharge harming yourself or others while you assess the situation.

Waiting also allows time for any potential threats caused by the malfunction, such as a hangfire (a delayed ignition of the cartridge), to resolve. A hangfire can lead to an unexpected discharge, so it's important to maintain control and awareness of the weapon's direction and surroundings.

This action emphasizes the importance of maintaining safety while resolving unexpected issues with a firearm. In contrast, other options such as checking the magazine, unloading while looking at the barrel, or pulling the trigger repeatedly do not ensure safety and may escalate the risk of injury or further complications. Thus, keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction is critical to effective and responsible handling during a malfunction.