Which statement about a hang fire is true?

A hang fire is a potentially dangerous situation that occurs when there is a delay between pulling the trigger and the actual firing of the cartridge. In this scenario, the primer may ignite but the powder does not immediately combust, leading to a delay in the bullet being fired from the firearm. This can happen due to several factors, including manufacturing defects, moisture, or improperly stored ammunition.

Choosing the option relating to the primer failing to ignite the powder accurately describes the essence of a hang fire. Understanding this definition is crucial for hunters and shooters, as it emphasizes the need for caution. If a shooter experiences a hang fire, they should keep their firearm pointed in a safe direction and wait for a period of time before opening the action to prevent any accidental discharge.

The other options reference different issues that can occur with ammunition or firearms, but they do not accurately capture the essence of a hang fire, which is specifically characterized by a delayed ignition process.