What does the acronym SPORTS stand for?

The acronym SPORTS is a crucial mnemonic that stands for Slap, Pull, Observe, Release, Tap, and Shoot. This term is primarily used in the military to describe the immediate actions for handling a malfunctioning weapon, particularly with the M4/M16 series rifles.

• "Slap" refers to slapping the magazine to ensure it is properly seated.
• "Pull" involves pulling the charging handle to the rear to clear any potential obstruction or to chamber a new round.

• "Observe" suggests looking in the ejection port to check for any immediate issues or to confirm the weapon is ready to fire.
• "Release" means releasing the charging handle to return it to the forward position, chambering a round.
• "Tap" is to tap the forward-assist with a firm palm to ensure the bolt is locked.
• "Shoot" is to aim and fire the weapon if it is clear and functioning properly.

Understanding the SPORTS acronym is essential for Soldiers to effectively and quickly address weapon malfunctions, which can be critical in both training and combat scenarios. This knowledge contributes to overall weapon efficiency and operational readiness, making it an important part of military training.