California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

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Prepare for your California Firearm Safety Certificate exam with our comprehensive practice tests. Master the key concepts and ensure your success with detailed explanations for every question.

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What action should be taken if a firearm fails to fire when the trigger is pulled?

  1. Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction and try to fire again

  2. Immediately open the action and check the chamber

  3. Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, wait, then safely unload it

  4. Shake the firearm then try to fire again

The correct answer is: Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, wait, then safely unload it

The appropriate course of action when a firearm fails to fire is to keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, wait, and then safely unload it. This procedure is important because it prioritizes safety while addressing the malfunction. After pulling the trigger, if a firearm does not fire, there may be a potential hangfire situation, where the cartridge may fire after a delay. By maintaining a safe direction and waiting, you reduce the risk of injury if the round discharges unexpectedly. Additionally, safely unloading the firearm afterward ensures that it is clear of any ammunition, further enhancing safety before any inspection or handling. This careful approach mitigates any risk associated with malfunctioning firearms and is crucial for responsible firearm handling.