Which description best matches a squib load?

• A. A misfire.
• B. A squib load is described by hearing a pop instead of a bang and feeling less recoil.
• C. A double feed.
• D. A stovepipe.

Answer: (B)

A squib load happens when there isn’t enough powder to push the bullet out with normal force. The result is a light, weak discharge—often heard as a pop rather than a full bang—and noticeably less recoil. That description matches the described event exactly: you hear a pop and feel reduced recoil instead of the expected loud report and normal kick.

Think of the other malfunctions as different problems: a misfire means the round doesn’t ignite at all or fails to ignite reliably, so you may hear little to no sound or see a misfire indicator rather than a weak pop. A double feed is when more than one cartridge tries to enter the chamber, causing a jam. A stovepipe is an ejection problem where the spent case doesn’t clear the ejection port properly.

In short, a squib is a fired round with abnormally low power, producing a pop and minimal recoil, which is why that description is the best match. If you suspect a squib, treat it as a potential bore obstruction and stop shooting immediately to inspect and clear the firearm safely.