What does a 'Tap' refer to in the SPORTS method?

The term 'Tap' in the SPORTS method specifically refers to the action of ensuring the magazine is properly seated in the firearm. This step is crucial in the process of clearing a malfunction with the weapon, as a properly seated magazine is essential for the firearm to function correctly. If the magazine is not seated properly, the weapon may not feed ammunition correctly, which can lead to further issues during operation.

In the context of the SPORTS method, which stands for Slap, Pull, Observe, Release, Tap, and Shoot, the 'Tap' action ensures that the ammunition is ready to be fed into the chamber, providing a seamless transition to the next steps in addressing a jam or stoppage. Understanding this is vital for soldiers to maintain operational readiness and efficiency when dealing with potential weapon malfunctions.