What defines a "misfire"?

A "misfire" is specifically defined as the failure of a cartridge to fire when the trigger is pulled. This situation can occur due to various reasons, such as a faulty primer, a defect in the cartridge, or issues with the firearm's firing mechanism. Understanding this term is crucial for firearm safety and operations, as misfires require specific handling procedures to ensure safety and prevent accidents.

The other options describe different scenarios related to firearm operation but do not accurately capture the definition of a misfire. For example, firing multiple times on a single trigger pull indicates a malfunction or a feature of automatic or semi-automatic weapons, and missing the target simply refers to an unsuccessful shot rather than a failure to fire. The situation where all bullets in the magazine misfire is not a standard definition and emphasizes a drastic failure that is not representative of what a misfire typically entails. Thus, focusing on the precise definition encapsulated in the correct answer is essential for understanding the critical implications of firearm handling and safety.