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What is a misfire?

  1. When the firearm discharges before expected

  2. When the firearm does not fire due to a malfunction

  3. When the firearm fires after expected

  4. When the firearm fires without pulling the trigger

The correct answer is: When the firearm does not fire due to a malfunction

A misfire is defined as a situation where the firearm does not fire due to a malfunction, often involving the cartridge, firing pin, or other components of the firearm. This can occur for several reasons, such as an improper primer strike, faulty ammunition, or mechanical issues within the firearm itself. Understanding this definition is important for safe firearm handling and usage, as recognizing a misfire can help prevent potential accidents and enhance the user's response to resolve the situation appropriately. Therefore, identifying that a misfire is characterized by a failure to discharge when expected aligns with the accepted terminology used in firearms safety training. The other options refer to different scenarios related to firearm operation, but they do not accurately define what constitutes a misfire, highlighting the importance of understanding these distinctions for safe firearm use.