What should you do if you encounter a malfunction while shooting?

When encountering a malfunction while shooting, the appropriate response is to immediately clear the weapon and inspect it. This step is crucial for ensuring safety and preventing further complications. Malfunctions can arise from various issues, such as misfires, hangfires, or other mechanical failures. By clearing the weapon, you remove any potential for accidental discharge while assessing the situation, which mitigates risk to yourself and those around you.

Inspecting the firearm afterward allows you to identify the specific nature of the malfunction. This could involve checking for jammed cartridges, ensuring the magazine is properly seated, or confirming that the gun is clean and functioning as intended. This methodical approach not only enhances your safety but also helps you become more familiar with your firearm’s operation, ultimately improving your handling skills.

The other actions, such as continuing to shoot or asking for help, do not address the immediate need for safety and proper handling of a malfunctioning firearm. Stopping to drop and roll is inappropriate in this context, as it is not relevant to firearm handling. Therefore, clearing and inspecting the weapon is the best practice when addressing malfunctions during shooting.