What should you do if a bullet gets lodged in the barrel?

When a bullet gets lodged in the barrel of a firearm, it's crucial to understand that this poses a significant hazard. Continuing to use the firearm in this condition can lead to catastrophic failures, such as the barrel bursting when another round is fired. This can cause serious injury to the shooter and bystanders.

Stopping the use of the firearm immediately and having it inspected by a qualified gunsmith is the safest course of action. A gunsmith has the expertise and tools necessary to properly assess the situation and safely remove the obstruction without further damaging the firearm or risking personal safety.

This approach emphasizes safety first, recognizing that certain actions may lead to more serious problems. For example, attempting to remove the lodged bullet immediately or using a cleaning rod to push it out could result in damage to the firearm, risking injury. Additionally, firing another round to dislodge the bullet is extremely dangerous and could cause the barrel to rupture. Hence, the best practice is to cease all use of the firearm and seek professional assistance.