What is one type of malfunction that can occur with a semiautomatic rifle/carbine?

A squib load is a specific type of malfunction that occurs when a bullet is improperly loaded into the chamber, leading it to be fired with insufficient powder. In this situation, the bullet may not exit the barrel or may become lodged partway through. This is a serious issue because if another round is fired afterward without clearing the squib, it can cause a catastrophic failure of the firearm, such as a barrel explosion.

Understanding squib loads is vital for anyone using a semiautomatic rifle or carbine, as detection often requires vigilance. Shooters should be aware of the sound and feel of a squib, which typically presents as a quieter report and reduced recoil compared to a standard round.

The other options, while they can impact the performance of a firearm, do not represent specific malfunctions in the same way that squib loads do. For example, failure to clean relates more to maintenance practices rather than an immediate operational failure, and excessive recoil or low accuracy may stem from factors like ammunition choice or shooter technique rather than a malfunction of the firearm itself.