What is the proper response if you hear a firearm misfire?

When encountering a firearm misfire, the appropriate response is to wait a few seconds and then safely inspect the firearm. This is crucial because a misfire may indicate that a round has not discharged properly. If you immediately inspect the firearm without waiting, you might be in a dangerous situation if the round decides to ignite after the trigger has been pulled.

By waiting a few seconds, you allow time for potential delayed ignition. This pause significantly reduces the risk of injury, as a round that misfires can sometimes fire unexpectedly if the firearm is disturbed. After this waiting period, you can then safely and carefully inspect the firearm following the manufacturer's guidelines and established safety practices. This method prioritizes safety by ensuring that you are not in the line of fire when inspecting a potentially dangerous situation.