[DougG]

I did a forum search for this subject, and couldn't find a complete procedure for dealing with a misfire (firing pin hits the primer with no result). Specifically, how long to wait before ejecting, how to eject (body away from the breech for instance and by hand or mechanically), and what to do with the possibly dangerous round both in the field and on the target range. I hope this will be a good discussion for everyone. Also, comments would be appreciated concerning any possible residual danger in an ejected misfire round.

[Flat4sti]

I was always told to just eject it like normal. That there was no danger. Firing a bullet is a mechanical process, the primer HAS to ignite in order to ignite the powder in the cartridge. If the primer doesn't go off when it is first struck then the bullet won't go off 2 minutes later by itself. However I am no expert and I have never had any failures with my px4. Just what i was told.

[Dillinger]

Great question Doug. Is this in a long arm, a pistol, or in general?

[freefall]

I was always told to keep the muzzle pointed at the backstop for 10 to 15 seconds, then eject the round. Long or hand gun.

[JonM]

Originally Posted by Flat4sti

If the primer doesn't go off when it is first struck then the bullet won't go off 2 minutes later by itself.

yes it most definately can. in 30+ years of shooting i have had it happen 3 times. once out of a gun a shell that goes off just laying the ground wont kill you cept for maybe a 50bmg or bigger. its called a hangfire. usually happens in older ammo that has been sitting for years untouched. humidity typically causes it. the primer will do a slow burn and may or may not set off the round.

the safe thing to do is to set the gun down safety off (since some safeties on certain guns can be damaged if it goes off with the safety on) wait 2 minutes then refire or dispose of the round.

[c3shooter]

In combat? Getting shot at? Slap, rack, and roll, and continue to march (immediate action drill) Punching paper at the range? Keep the muzzle downrange, wait at least 15 seconds, (30 is better) eject, dispose of round. I did run into a memorable bad batch of Pakistani .303 Enfield- first five rounds were a hangfire (poorly stored ammo) As much as 1-2 second delay between FP strike and BOOM. That box was disposed of.

[masterPsmith]

Looks like c3shooter has this one covered...

Jim........

[DougG]

My question was prompted by a misfire in the field with a single shot bolt action .308 target rifle using match grade factory ammo. It was a surprise and a bit unnerving. After ejecting the round I wasn't quite sure what to do with it. Any suggestions?

[Cory2]

I'm surprised no one else has said this, remove the clip/mag if it has one.

I know there can be different ways to handle different types of misfire's but for simplicities sake I do the same thing on every type.

At the range.
1. Remove Clip/Magazine
2. Determine type of misfire (DO NOT LOOK AT THE BREACH)
3. Keep your face on the opposite side of the firearms as the ejection port if it has one. If bolt action then just wait.
4. Wait about 30 seconds to a minute.
5. Eject round.
Note: if it is a hung shell (can't remember the proper term) then remove the clip and pull back breach and remove the shell... in a combat situation just hit the shell with your hand.

In a combat situation you can either recock and and keep firing.

[SecPro]

c3shooter- hit it!

Hold 15-30 second, then drop mag and rack slide. Where to dispose of the bad round is dependent on your particular range rules/master etc.

Fire fight - totally different. tap, rack, bang. I do this normally to try and remain consistant.

Oh, Cory2 it's a hang fire.