What can occur if the incorrect ammunition is used in a firearm?

Using the incorrect ammunition in a firearm can result in an explosion, which poses serious risks of injury or death. This occurs because the firearm is not designed to handle the pressures generated by ammunition that does not fit its specifications. Incompatible ammunition can cause the casing to rupture or other catastrophic failures within the firearm, leading to shrapnel or pieces of the firearm being propelled unexpectedly.

While minor misfires and failures to fire can happen when incorrect ammunition is used, these are less severe outcomes compared to the potential for an explosion. Additionally, a decrease in accuracy may occur, but it is a less critical consequence than an explosion. Understanding the importance of using the correct ammunition is crucial for safe firearm handling and operation.