What follows after the Firing step in the cycle of operation?

In the cycle of operation for firearms, the sequence of steps is critical to understanding how the mechanism works. After the Firing step, which involves igniting the cartridge and firing the projectile, the next step is Extracting. This process involves removing the spent cartridge case from the chamber.

During the Extracting phase, the extractor mechanism grips the rim of the spent cartridge case and pulls it out of the chamber. This is essential to prepare the firearm for the next round, ensuring that the chamber is clear and ready for new ammunition. This step is crucial for maintaining the functionality and reliability of the firearm, as any failure to extract can lead to malfunctions.

The other options do not follow the Firing step directly in the operational cycle. Feeding refers to the process where a new round is introduced into the chamber, which occurs after the Extracting and Ejecting phases. Cocking is concerned with resetting the hammer or striker mechanism, which typically happens after the firing and extracting of a round, but it does not immediately follow the Firing step. Ejecting, while related, specifically involves expelling the spent case from the firearm, but it is a distinct action that follows Extraction. Thus, the Extracting step logically and operationally occurs immediately after