What does a hang fire refer to in firearms operation?

A hang fire specifically refers to a scenario where the primer of a cartridge ignites, yet there is a delay in the firing of the projectile. This means that, although the ignition sequence has started, the bullet does not fire immediately as a result of a mechanical delay or other issues within the cartridge. This is crucial to recognize because hang fires can pose significant safety risks; the shooter may mistakenly believe the firearm has misfired and subsequently handle it inappropriately, leading to accidental discharge.

Understanding this term is essential for firearms safety and handling, as it dictates how a shooter should respond. In the event of a hang fire, the proper protocol involves waiting a designated period to ensure that the round does not fire unexpectedly, and then following safe handling procedures for clearing the malfunction.

Other scenarios like complete misfires, mechanical failures of the firing mechanism, or improper expending of ammunition do not accurately describe the nature of a hang fire, which specifically involves an active ignition but delayed trigger response.