Quoted: In basic training they taught us S.P.O.R.T.S. to clear a malfunction.
S=Slap the bottom of the mag, ensure it's inserted properly.
P=Pull the charging handle to clear the suspect round of the chamber.
O=Observe the next round entering the chamber.
R= Let the charging return, don't ride it!
T= Tap the forward assist. This ensures the round is fully inserted in the chamber and the bolt is closed. But never force the bolt closed if there is a major obstruction.
S= Shoot.
This is engrained in my head and is the procedure I still use today when loading a fresh mag or in the rare occasion, clearing a malfunction.
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Not to be a smartass, but if the "O" stood for observing the next round entering the chamber, how could it come before "R"?
I want to stress this because it is the most oft committed immeidate action error I have observed - namely loading another round against a round already in the chamber - resulting in a double-feed at best.
The "O" in the US Army acronym actually stands for observing the round LEAVING THE CHAMBER. If the round soes not extract - you DO NOT RELEASE THE CHARGING HANDLE! What good would it do?
Incidentally, the USMC uses the same acronym "S-P-O-R-T-S" for a different purpose. Their's ties in immediate action with actions taken if immediate action fails (their is a term their that is slipping my mind at this time). Any Marines out there that can add to / correct this?
As for the use of the forward assist - I have used it several times. If you do not want to make the noise involved with slamming the bolt forward, it allows you the quiet, reassuring locking normally only available in bolt actions. Also, if you need to be absolutely sure a round was chambered, pull the charging handle back a bit, confirm round, then release - odds are there is not enough "oomph" to send it fully into battery - hence another use for the forward assist.
I likey.
Adam