When should the initial function check be performed?

The initial function check of a firearm should be performed with no rounds or snap caps. Conducting this check without any ammunition ensures that you are in a safe environment where the risk of accidental discharge is minimized. This step allows the operator to familiarize themselves with the firearm's mechanism, assess its functionality, and identify any potential mechanical issues without the hazards associated with live ammunition.

Using snap caps or dummy rounds may be appropriate for further testing or training scenarios, but the very first function check should be conducted in a completely clear configuration. Ensuring that the firearm is unloaded and free from any ammunition helps maintain safety and allows for the isolation of potential failures in the firearm's mechanical operation without the concern of a live round discharging unexpectedly.

Performing the check after cleaning the weapon is also important, but it does not address when to conduct the initial function check; the firearm should be clear of all rounds prior to any testing activities.