When dealing with a "hangfire," what is the recommended wait time before assuming a misfire?

A hangfire occurs when there is a delay between the pulling of the trigger and the ignition of the cartridge, which can pose a significant safety risk if the shooter reacts prematurely by opening the action or attempting to clear the firearm too soon. The recommended wait time of 60 seconds allows for sufficient time to ensure that it is safe to proceed after experiencing a hangfire. This duration is generally accepted in firearms safety practices to provide a buffer for any possible delayed ignition that may still occur.

During this wait period, the shooter should maintain a safe muzzle direction and keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction throughout, as a hangfire can lead to an unexpected discharge. The specific time of 60 seconds is based on experience and the understanding that, while not exhaustive, it offers a good balance between safety and practicality. A longer wait might be overly cautious, while a shorter wait could pose unnecessary risk.