What should you do if a cartridge does not fire?

When a cartridge does not fire, the proper course of action is to perform a tap, rack, ready drill. This procedure is vital because it helps clear a potential malfunction and prepares the firearm to fire again if the issue is related to the initial firing process.

The "tap" involves ensuring that the magazine is properly seated in the firearm, while the "rack" involves pulling back the slide or bolt to eject any misfired round and chamber a new round. Following these steps ensures that the firearm is ready to be fired again without unnecessary delay.

In contrast, simply leaving the firearm aimed at the ground may not adequately address the malfunction, and without further action, the shooter may miss an opportunity to rectify the situation. Throwing the firearm away is not a sensible action as it would only lead to potential accidents or damage. Waiting five minutes to inspect could also be a risky choice, particularly if there was a hang fire—a delayed ignition that could lead to an unexpected discharge. Therefore, the tap, rack, ready procedure is the most effective and recommended action for resolving a failure to fire immediately and safely.