When attempting to clear brass obstruction, what should you do if the bolt will not lock to the rear?

When it comes to clearing a brass obstruction from the rifle, the action you take can significantly impact the situation. Shaking the rifle to free the round is an instinctive response that can sometimes dislodge a stuck casing, especially if it is lodged in a position where a gentle shake can help.

This method capitalizes on gravity and movement, which may help in shifting the stuck brass if it’s only partially lodged or caught in the chamber. It’s important to apply the appropriate force and angles when doing this so that it does not cause additional complications or damage to the rifle.

To clarify the context regarding the other options: leaving the weapon as is would be an unsafe practice, as it does not address the obstruction. Simply replacing the empty magazine would not solve the issue if there is a stuck round that’s preventing the bolt from locking back. Inspecting the chamber area is important, but doing so after attempting to dislodge the obstruction might be more effective, as the initial shaking could provide a straightforward solution before a thorough inspection is necessary.