What is a common response to a misfire?

In the event of a misfire, the recommended response is to wait a specific amount of time, typically around 30 seconds, before opening the action. This waiting period is critical because it allows any potential hangfire—an event where the primer ignites after a short delay—to occur safely. If a shooter opens the action immediately after a misfire, they could be in jeopardy if a hangfire were to happen, as this could cause the firearm to discharge unexpectedly.

While it may seem intuitive to quickly inspect the chamber, doing so without allowing time for a possible hangfire could lead to injury. Continuing to fire the weapon or attempting to tape the trigger is not safe practice and can exacerbate any issues with the firearm or cause further accidents. Therefore, the procedure of waiting before opening the action is a critical safety measure in addressing a misfire.