What is the first inspection you should perform for a weapon with a malfunction on the M2 machine gun?

The first inspection for a weapon experiencing a malfunction, specifically the M2 machine gun, involves checking if the cover is completely down and latched. This step is crucial because if the cover is not properly secured, it can lead to a variety of feeding issues and malfunctions. The cover provides essential protection to the internal mechanisms and ensures that the ammunition is fed correctly into the chamber. A loose or unlatched cover can result in jams or improperly seated cartridges, preventing the weapon from functioning correctly.

In contrast, checking the ammunition feed and inspecting the extractor are important steps as well, but they are typically conducted after verifying that the cover is secured. Testing the weapon by firing it is not advisable until the initial basic checks, including ensuring the cover is latched, are completed to diagnose the malfunction properly. Hence, starting with the cover is a logical and effective troubleshooting step in handling malfunctions with the M2 machine gun.