MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What should your first course of action be when a round in the chamber does not detonate during a firefight?

1. Tap, rack, present

2. Tap, rip, present

3. Switch to less lethal

4. Take cover

The correct answer is: Tap, rack, present

In a situation where a round in the chamber fails to detonate, it is essential to respond quickly and effectively to ensure safety and maintain readiness in a firefight. The correct course of action is to "tap, rack, present." This method is a standard operational drill known as the "Immediate Action Drill" or "Immediate Action Procedures" used by many law enforcement and military personnel. The first step, "tap," involves tapping the magazine to ensure it is properly seated in the firearm. This action helps to verify that the ammunition is correctly loaded, addressing common issues that might prevent a round from firing. The second step, "rack," refers to pulling back the slide of the firearm to eject the failed round. This step is crucial because it clears the malfunctioning cartridge and readies the weapon to fire again. Finally, "present" means to bring the firearm back into a ready position, aiming at the target. This ensures that you are prepared to re-engage if necessary. This procedure is designed to be performed swiftly in high-stress situations, minimizing the time your weapon is out of action. It focuses not only on addressing the malfunction but also on maintaining your offensive capability in a dynamic and potentially dangerous environment. The other options do