Corrections Officer State Certification (SOCE) Practice Exam

What is a primary characteristic of a "squib load"?

1. It results in a firearm being overly loud when fired.

2. It occurs due to an insufficient amount of powder.

3. It usually results in a successful shot.

4. It indicates a malfunction in the safety mechanism.

The correct answer is: It occurs due to an insufficient amount of powder.

A squib load is primarily characterized by an insufficient amount of powder in the cartridge, which results in a projectile not having enough energy to exit the barrel of the firearm. This situation can create several safety concerns, as a squib load might lead to a bullet being lodged in the barrel. If a subsequent round is fired without clearing the obstruction, it can create significant dangers, such as a catastrophic failure of the firearm. The core issue with a squib load is that it does not generate the expected pressure and velocity due to the lack of propellant, which distinguishes it from other types of malfunction or performance issues in firearms. Understanding squib loads and the conditions leading to their occurrence is critical for both safety and operational readiness in correctional officer duties, where proper handling and knowledge of firearms is essential.