Which component is crucial for ensuring proper function during the "SPORTS" procedure?

The "SPORTS" procedure is a critical drill for immediate action when a malfunction occurs during rifle operation. It stands for Slap, Pull, Observe, Release, Tap, and Squeeze. Each step plays a vital role in addressing potential issues, but observing the ejection of the cartridge is particularly crucial.

When you observe the ejection of the cartridge, you are checking to see if the rifle is cycling properly and whether a casing is being expelled. This step helps to identify whether the malfunction is related to an issue with the cycling mechanism or if there is an issue with the ammunition or the magazine. If the cartridge is not ejected, it may indicate a failure to extract or a double feed, which are common problems that can disrupt proper shooting.

To summarize, focusing on the observation of the ejection demonstrates attention to the rifle's operational state and is essential for determining the nature of the malfunction and deciding subsequent actions. Other components like inspecting the firing pin and tapping the magazine are important, but none are as immediately indicative of the overall functionality as observing the cartridge ejection process during a malfunction.