Not every abnormal shot or failure to fire calls for the same response. Some ammunition problems can look almost identical to an ordinary stoppage on the surface, but need a completely different reaction. This module covers four cartridge-related malfunctions — squib load, misfire, hangfire, and case head separation — so you can recognise the warning signs and know when to stop, rather than running straight into a clearance drill. Reading this article doesn't qualify you to diagnose or repair a firearm; it's here to help you recognise when something needs a professional's attention.
Stop And Assess
If a shot sounds or feels abnormal, a projectile may not have left the barrel. If the firearm fails to fire after a trigger press, delayed ignition may be possible. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, stay clear of the action, and stop any routine clearance attempt if the cause isn't clear. Follow your firearm manufacturer's instructions, and the direction of your range officer or qualified instructor.
Squib Load
What It Is
A cartridge that doesn't generate enough force to push the projectile fully out of the barrel, leaving it lodged inside.
What You Might Notice
A noticeably weak sound or recoil can be a warning sign — but symptoms vary, and the absence of an obvious difference doesn't rule it out.
Why It Matters
Firing another round into a barrel with an obstruction still in it can be catastrophic for the firearm and genuinely dangerous for you and anyone nearby.
Appropriate Next Step
Stop. Have the firearm checked by a qualified professional before it's used again.
Never fire another round through a suspected obstruction.
Misfire
What It Is
A cartridge that fails to fire when the trigger is pressed.
What You Might Notice
The firing pin falls, but there's no bang.
Why It Matters
In the moment, you can't tell whether this is a simple dud or a delayed ignition still waiting to happen.
Appropriate Next Step
The general response is a Tap Rack Bang drill — though because you can't immediately rule out a hangfire, it's worth pausing briefly with the muzzle in a safe direction before working the action.
Hangfire
What It Is
A delayed ignition. The propellant burns more slowly than normal, creating a gap between the trigger press and the shot actually firing.
What You Might Notice
A noticeable pause after the trigger press, sometimes lasting several seconds, before the shot goes off.
Why It Matters
Opening or cycling the action too soon, while a hangfire is still live, can expose you to a round firing at an unexpected moment.
Appropriate Next Step
Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and your finger off the trigger until you're confident the risk has passed. There's no shortcut that makes this safe to rush.
Case Head Separation
What It Is
Part of a fired cartridge case stays behind in the chamber instead of coming out with the rest of the case.
What You Might Notice
The action won't cycle normally, or a new round won't feed or chamber properly.
Why It Matters
Reused or heavily fired brass is one contributing factor, though not the only one — and a case fragment left in the chamber means the firearm isn't safe to keep using as-is.
Appropriate Next Step
Stop using the firearm. Have it examined and cleared by a qualified professional.
Quick Comparison
Condition
Possible Clue
Main Concern
Response Principle
Squib Load
Noticeably weak sound or recoil
Obstruction left in the barrel
Stop — don't fire again
Misfire
Trigger falls, no shot
Possible delayed ignition
Pause, keep muzzle safe
Hangfire
Delayed bang after trigger press
Round may still fire late
Don't rush the action open
Case Head Separation
Action won't cycle, feed issue
Case fragment stuck in chamber
Stop — get it examined
Key Takeaway
A routine stoppage drill is not the answer to every abnormal shot or failure to fire. When the cause isn't clear, stop, keep the muzzle in a safe direction, and get qualified guidance rather than guessing.
