A cook-off occurs when what happens?

A cook-off occurs when heat from the weapon ignites a chambered round. This phenomenon typically happens when a firearm or weapon has been subjected to sustained firing, causing it to reach extremely high temperatures. If a weapon generates enough heat, it can create conditions under which the gunpowder in a chambered round ignites.

This is particularly relevant in the context of automatic firearms or situations where multiple rounds are fired in quick succession. The danger of a cook-off is that it can lead to an unintended discharge of a round without a trigger being pulled, which may not only endanger the operator but also those nearby. Understanding the mechanics and conditions that lead to a cook-off is critical for safety in handling and operating firearms, as it helps in preventing such occurrences through proper handling and cooling protocols.