New York Firearms Safety Course Practice Exam

Which of the following actions should you take if your firearm fails to fire when the trigger is pulled?

1. Keep it pointed towards the target

2. Open the action and remove the ammunition

3. Try to fire again immediately

4. Shake it to try to clear the obstruction

The correct answer is: Keep it pointed towards the target

Keeping the firearm pointed towards the target is indeed important in this situation. This action is rooted in the fundamental principles of firearm safety, particularly the concept of maintaining control and ensuring that the firearm is pointed in a safe direction at all times. This helps to prevent accidental discharges that could result in injury to yourself or others while you assess the malfunction. In the event of a failure to fire, there is usually a possibility that the round may still fire after a brief delay, sometimes referred to as a hang fire. By keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction, you are minimizing the risk of injury in case this delayed ignition occurs. Addressing other options, opening the action may be necessary to clear any potential obstruction or to remove the ammunition, but it should be done with caution and only if it is safe to do so. Trying to fire again immediately can increase the risk if the round was a hang fire, and shaking the firearm is not a recommended practice as it could cause unintended consequences. Hence, maintaining control and safety by keeping the firearm pointed towards the target is the most appropriate first action.