The acronym sports is the aid for remembering m16 unload show clear procedures?

SPORTS

slap - slap the bottom of the magazine to make sure it is firmly seated into the magazine well

pull - pull back the charging handle, opening the chamber for visual inspection

observe - observe the chamber for any problems

release - release charging handle

tap - tap the forward assist to force bolt closed (for when it is very dirty)

shoot - pull trigger

to safely clear an m16, put fire selector in safe position, aim rifle in safe direction, release magazine, pull back charging handle and inspect chamber for any round.