California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

What should you do if your firearm fails to fire when the trigger is pulled?

1. Pull the trigger again

2. Keep it pointed in a safe direction and check the chamber

3. Shake the firearm

4. Immediately look down the barrel

The correct answer is: Keep it pointed in a safe direction and check the chamber

Keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction and checking the chamber is the safest action to take when a firearm fails to fire. This procedure helps prevent any unintentional discharge that might occur if the firearm were to go off while handling it. Additionally, a failure to fire could be due to several reasons, such as a misfire or a poor connection with the primer. By checking the chamber, you can verify the condition of the firearm and ensure it’s safe to handle. This approach emphasizes safety, as it avoids unnecessary risks associated with other actions, such as pulling the trigger again, which could lead to a second attempt to fire without assessing the situation. Shaking the firearm or looking down the barrel are also unsafe practices that could result in injury or worsen the situation. Safety is paramount when handling firearms, and this method prioritizes that fundamental principle.