What is the correct action to take after experiencing a hangfire?

When experiencing a hangfire, which is a delayed ignition of the cartridge, it is crucial to follow proper safety protocols to prevent injury or accidents. Waiting for about 30 seconds before unloading is the correct action because a hangfire can occur when there is a brief delay in the ignition of the primer after the trigger is pulled.

If a shooter immediately unloads the firearm right after a hangfire, there is a risk that the cartridge may go off during the unloading process, leading to severe consequences. By waiting for 30 seconds, the shooter allows time for any potential ignition to occur, thereby reducing the hazard of discharging the firearm accidentally while it is being handled.

This cautious approach prioritizes safety and is standard practice in firearm handling to ensure that the potential risks associated with delayed ignitions are effectively managed.