How does a Soldier perform immediate action when the weapon malfunctions?

The action of tapping the bottom of the magazine firmly is a critical immediate action a Soldier takes when experiencing a weapon malfunction, particularly a failure to feed or a jam. This method is often referred to as "tap, rack, and assess." By tapping the magazine, the Soldier ensures that it is seated properly and that any potential feeding issues can be resolved. It is a quick, instinctive way to verify the magazine's connection to the weapon without taking too much time or attention away from the immediate tactical situation.

The other actions do not directly contribute to resolving a malfunction as effectively as tapping the magazine. Checking if the safety is on is important for safe weapon handling but does not fix the malfunction. Removing the magazine completely could create a delay and would not be the most efficient step in the immediate action sequence unless part of a broader troubleshooting process. Assessing the target's distance is irrelevant in the context of addressing a malfunction and focuses on engagement rather than resolving the technical issue with the weapon.