What is the function of the ejection port during cycling?

• A. It expels spent cartridge cases as the bolt cycles; ensures clear chamber for the next round.
• B. It loads the next round.
• C. It vents gas to reduce recoil.
• D. It locks the bolt.

Answer: (A)

During cycling, the ejection port serves as the outlet for the spent cartridge case. After a round is fired, the bolt unlocks and moves rearward; the extractor pulls the spent case from the chamber, and the case is expelled through the ejection port as the bolt continues to the rear. This outward ejection clears the chamber so the next round can be fed and seated when the bolt returns forward.

The ejection port is not where the next round is loaded—that happens as the magazine feeds a new round into the chamber. It also isn’t involved in venting gas or in locking the bolt; those functions involve the rifle’s gas system and the bolt-locking mechanism, respectively.