Hunting
Guidelines for handling accidental misfires hangfires and squibs safely including immediate actions and long term firearm checks
In this guide, shooters learn calm, clear steps to address misfires, recover control, avoid unsafe handling, and implement thorough post-incident checks that protect lives, integrity, and ongoing safety practices.
Published by
Nathan Cooper
July 24, 2025 - 3 min Read
When a firearm fails to fire, the first priority is safety for everyone nearby. Maintain control of the weapon, keep it pointed in a safe direction, and avoid dashing conclusions about the cause. If possible, wait a short moment to determine whether the hammer remains cocked or the striker has released. Do not attempt to press the trigger again during this delay, as a subsequent discharge could be dangerous. Communicate with others in the area to ensure no one approaches the muzzle. If you suspect a misfire is genuine, treat it as a potential hazard, and follow a deliberate, methodical process rather than rushing to “solve” the problem.
After ensuring the surroundings are safe, perform a quick, disciplined check of the firearm’s basic status. Confirm whether the chamber is loaded or empty, and observe for any unusual signs such as a light primer strike or a delayed ignition. If the weapon is a semi-automatic, be mindful of the possibility that the slide may have failed to cycle. In all cases, do not field strip the gun beyond what you are trained to do. Preserve any evidence of the event, including spent primers and cartridge cases, to aid later inspection by a qualified armorer or competent gunsmith.
Handling squibs and squib-related concerns with caution and procedure
A misfire is a failure to ignite a cartridge when the trigger is pulled, while a hangfire involves a delayed ignition. In either situation, the shooter should keep the firearm pointed toward a safe direction, maintain finger discipline, and refrain from manipulating the action more than necessary. If a delay occurs, wait at least 30 seconds before attempting any further action. If ignition finally occurs, carefully assess whether the firearm cycled normally or if a malfunction remains. Recording timing, weather conditions, and ammunition brand can help later analysis. If safe, move to a secure location to perform a detailed inspection with proper tools.
After the initial wait, you may need to unload the firearm using established, safe procedures. For handguns, lock the slide back, visually confirm the chamber is empty, and remove any magazine. For rifles, verify the chamber and magazine status, then use correct field-stripping steps according to the owner’s manual. Never attempt to fire again while in a potentially unsafe condition. If a squib was involved, there may still be a risk of a second discharge due to a second round being driven into the obstruction. Treat the situation with careful, measured actions.
Post-incident analysis and long-term firearm health checks
A squib occurs when a live round fails to generate enough force to cycle the action, potentially leaving a bullet stuck in the barrel. This is especially dangerous as a second round can collide with the obstruction, causing catastrophic failure. The correct response centers on control, patience, and securing the weapon. Do not rely on brute force to push a blocked bullet free. Instead, center your attention on clearing the obstruction only when you are trained to do so, using appropriate tools and protective measures. If in doubt, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith before attempting to fire again.
Communicate with nearby teammates or range staff to establish a safe, organized plan for clearing the obstruction. When removing a squib, use slow, deliberate movements and follow manufacturer instructions for field stripping and clearing the bore. Inspect the barrel for any bulges or cracks that might compromise safety. Reassemble only after confirming that the bore is clear and the action cycles properly. Always inspect the ammunition supply for signs of inconsistent projectiles that could lead to future squibs. Replace any suspect rounds, and consider adjusting storage and handling to reduce recurrence risk.
Training, drills, and habit formation for safe handling
Beyond immediate steps, any misfire, hangfire, or squib event merits a thorough post-incident review. Document the event in a written log, noting the time, location, environmental conditions, and tool involved. Compare outcomes with training guidelines to identify any deviations in procedure. Have a professional gunsmith examine the firearm, focusing on trigger components, firing pin alignment, and the condition of the hammer or striker. Regular follow-up checks are essential to ensure no hidden damage exists. Establish a routine maintenance schedule that coincides with use intensity and ammunition quality. This ongoing approach helps prevent recurrence and maintains reliability.
Depending on the type of firearm, several preventive measures can reduce future misfires. High-quality primers, clean action parts, and properly lubricated components contribute to consistent ignition. Keeping a clean barrel and bore free of obstruction supports reliable performance, especially under adverse weather. Store ammunition in a controlled environment to minimize moisture-related issues that can affect powder burn. If a systematic pattern emerges, consult the manufacturer’s guidance and consider sending samples to a certified lab for analysis. Auditing your gear regularly reinforces responsible handling habits and ongoing safety.
Long-term responsibility, documentation, and community safety
Regular training is crucial for handling misfires with confidence and calm. Practice with dry fire exercises to reinforce trigger discipline and muzzle awareness. Include deliberate misfire drills in your routine, ensuring you can distinguish between a simple click and a dead round. The objective is not to provoke a discharge but to build muscle memory for proper response. Trainers should emphasize the correct sequence: assess, wait, unload if appropriate, and consult professional help for any suspected structural issues. Repetition helps you respond instinctively while maintaining a safe environment for yourself and others.
Keep a close eye on your gear, and maintain an auditable log of maintenance tasks. Schedule periodic inspections of firing pins, springs, and extractor components that may wear over time. If you use reloading components, adhere to strict compatibility checks to avoid unintended pressures. When operating in harsh conditions, apply protective measures that prevent moisture ingress and rust, especially to critical contact points. A disciplined maintenance mindset translates into safer handling during unexpected events and reduces the risk of repeat misfires.
The responsibility for safe firearm handling extends beyond the individual. Share knowledge with fellow enthusiasts, emphasizing patience, verification, and non-escalatory actions after a misfire. Encourage proper storage practices and remind new shooters of the importance of wearing hearing and eye protection at all times. When in doubt, pause and seek guidance from an experienced instructor or qualified gunsmith. Documentation of incidents, including any repair work, helps track reliability trends and informs safer future use. A culture of open communication about failures strengthens overall safety within the shooting community.
Finally, invest in thorough, ongoing firearm health checks as a routine practice. This includes annual or biannual professional inspection and any time a weapon exhibits unusual behavior. Keep the user manual handy for reference on disassembly, cleaning, and part replacements. Maintain a log of ammunition brands and lot numbers to identify potential sources of inconsistent performance. By combining careful incident response with proactive maintenance, shooters minimize risk and extend the life of their firearms, supporting safe sport and responsible stewardship.
