What is the first step in immediate action drills for clearing a malfunction in a pistol?

In immediate action drills for clearing a malfunction in a pistol, the first step is to "tap." This action involves firmly striking the bottom of the magazine to ensure that it is properly seated in the grip of the pistol. This step is crucial because many malfunctions can occur due to an improperly seated magazine, which can prevent the firearm from cycling correctly. By tapping, the shooter addresses the common issue of magazine misalignment before proceeding to other steps in the malfunction clearing process.

Following the tap, the next actions typically involve racking the slide to chamber a round, and then assessing the situation to confirm whether the malfunction has been cleared. This sequence is essential for quickly and effectively addressing malfunctions during a critical situation. The other options, while part of the process, are subsequent steps rather than the initial action required to address a malfunction.