A stovepipe in a shotgun is caused by which of the following?

A stovepipe jam in a shotgun occurs when a fired cartridge case is incorrectly ejected and remains stuck vertically in the action, resembling a stovepipe. This specific malfunction is often the result of not cycling the action properly. When the shooter fails to fully operate the action, whether due to insufficient force during cycling or disrupting the timing of the shot, it can lead to incomplete ejection of the spent shell, causing it to become lodged.

While various factors can contribute to feeding and ejection problems, improper cycling of the action is the most direct cause of this type of jam. In contrast, incorrect ammunition usage, low-quality shells, and a damaged ejector may lead to other types of failures or malfunctions but are not the root cause of a stovepipe jam specifically. Understanding the mechanics of how the shotgun operates helps clarify why ensuring a complete and proper cycle of the action is essential for reliable performance.