During immediate action, what should the gunner do if no cartridge is ejected?

In a situation where no cartridge is ejected during immediate action, the best course of action for the gunner is to place the weapon on safe. This step is crucial as it ensures the safety of both the gunner and the surrounding personnel. When a weapon fails to eject a cartridge, it can indicate a malfunction that requires careful handling. By placing the weapon on safe, the gunner minimizes the risk of accidental discharge while they assess and address the situation.

Taking immediate safety precautions is essential in combat scenarios, where a malfunction can occur. The gunner must first ensure that the weapon is not a threat to themselves or others before attempting any further actions such as clearing the malfunction or analyzing the cause of the issue. This approach allows for safer troubleshooting of the weapon, preventing potential mishaps during what is often a high-stress situation.

Other options may involve actions that can lead to unsafe conditions or exacerbate the situation, as rushing to fire again or changing the ammunition belt without ensuring safety can pose hazards. Passing the weapon to another soldier might also introduce confusion or additional risk if safety measures have not been established first. Therefore, placing the weapon on safe serves as the foundational and necessary action in this context.