When empty cartridges get stuck in the ejection port of a pistol?

When empty cartridges get stuck in the ejection port of a pistol, it can lead to a malfunction known as a "stove pipe" jam. This occurs when the spent casing does not fully eject and remains vertically lodged in the ejection port, preventing the loading of a new round. Common causes include insufficient ejection force, weak extractor springs, or ammunition-related issues. To clear the jam, the shooter typically needs to rack the slide to remove the obstruction before continuing to use the firearm.