In the event of a squib load, what is the first action you should take?

In the event of a squib load, the first action you should take is to cease firing immediately. A squib load occurs when a bullet is not propelled properly, often resulting in a situation where a bullet may be lodged in the barrel of the firearm. Continuing to fire can lead to catastrophic failure, potentially causing the firearm to explode and resulting in injury to the shooter or bystanders.

Immediately stopping firing allows the shooter to safely assess the situation without the risk of another round being fired while a bullet is obstructing the barrel. This action prioritizes safety and enables the proper troubleshooting of the firearm. Following this, the gun should be carefully inspected to ensure that no bullets are lodged and that it can be cleared safely before resuming use.