Rhode Island Blue Card Practice Test

What does a hang fire refer to in firearms terms?

1. A gun malfunction

2. A delayed shot being fired

3. An accidental discharge

4. A misfire that occurs immediately

The correct answer is: A delayed shot being fired

In firearms terminology, a hang fire refers specifically to a delayed shot being fired. This situation occurs when there is an initial ignition of the primer but the propellant does not ignite immediately, resulting in a lapse of time before the round goes off. This can be particularly dangerous because the shooter may think the firearm has malfunctioned and might open the action or take other actions, potentially leading to injury when the round unexpectedly discharges. Understanding this concept is crucial for safe firearm handling and operation, as it highlights the importance of waiting a few moments after a perceived misfire before attempting to address the situation, thereby minimizing risk.