Which is a common indicator of a firearm’s malfunction?

A common indicator of a firearm’s malfunction is delayed firing. This occurs when there is a noticeable time gap between pulling the trigger and the actual discharge of the round. A malfunction can be caused by several factors, such as a faulty primer, a blocked barrel, or issues with the firing mechanism that prevent the round from firing as expected. Detecting a delay in firing can alert the shooter to a potential problem with the firearm, prompting them to address it safely.

The other options, such as a lightweight feel, no recoil, or short length, do not directly indicate a malfunction. While they may influence the handling or perception of the firearm, they are characteristics related to the design or weight of the weapon rather than indicators of operational failure.