Name a common sign of a potential firearm malfunction.

A common sign of a potential firearm malfunction is a failure to feed or eject a cartridge. This issue can occur due to various reasons, such as improper maintenance, faulty ammunition, or mechanical failure within the firearm itself. When a firearm fails to feed, it does not load a round from the magazine into the chamber properly. Similarly, if it fails to eject, spent cartridges may become stuck in the chamber, leading to operational issues during use. Recognizing this malfunction is crucial for a firearm user, as it often requires immediate attention to ensure safety and reliability during handling.

While other indicators like increased recoil, overheating of the barrel, or excessive noise during firing can suggest problems, they may not directly indicate a malfunction as clearly or specifically as a failure to feed or eject. These signs could have alternative explanations, while a failure to feed or eject typically signifies a specific malfunction that demands immediate corrective measures.