The inspecting NCO also checked the trigger and hammer for serviceability. 1. He would bring the hammer to half-cock and squeeze the trigger. If the hammer falls, the weapon has failed. 2. He would bring the hammer to full-cock and apply pressure to it using the thumb. If the hammer falls to half-cock, the weapon fails. 3. He would check the tightness of the hammer screw and the cleanliness of the nipple.
Inspection - Arms
The inspecting NCO checks each weapon for serviceability and safety. The rammer was placed in the barrel and sprung (bounced) in the barrel. If the barrel rang, then the weapon was unloaded, If a clank was heard the musket was still loaded.