What is a "hang fire" in shooting terms?

A "hang fire" refers specifically to a situation in which there is a delay between the striking of the primer and the actual firing of the round. This phenomenon can occur due to several factors, such as a slow-burning propellant or a fault in the primer itself. Understanding hang fires is crucial for firearm safety, as the shooter must remain cautious even after a perceived failure to fire.

When a hang fire occurs, it is essential to keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction and wait for a specific period before considering the cartridge a misfire, as it may still discharge unexpectedly. This knowledge is important for maintaining safety on the range or in a tactical situation. The definition provided aligns with the established understanding of hang fires, making it the correct choice in this context.