What are the main types of rifle malfunctions one should be aware of?

The correct answer identifies three critical types of rifle malfunctions: failure to feed, failure to fire, and failure to eject. These specific terms are used by marksmen and armorers to describe issues that can occur in the cycling of ammunition through a firearm.

Failure to feed refers to the situation where a cartridge fails to move from the magazine into the chamber. This can result from issues such as magazine problems or a dirty or damaged feed ramp. This malfunction can prevent the weapon from being able to fire, which is critical in a combat or training scenario.

Failure to fire occurs when the trigger is pulled, but the round does not fire. This can happen for various reasons, such as a malfunctioning firing pin, faulty primer, or issues with the ammunition itself. Understanding this malfunction is vital because it requires immediate identification and resolution to ensure readiness.

Failure to eject is when the spent casing does not properly exit the firearm after firing, leading to a potential blockage and preventing subsequent rounds from being chambered. Knowing how to address this malfunction quickly is essential for maintaining operational effectiveness.

Understanding these three types of malfunctions allows soldiers and marksmen to troubleshoot and resolve issues efficiently, ensuring weapon reliability and performance in both training and operational environments.