Once all guns are clear and there are no unfired rounds, the guns should be grounded with the lever checked to see that the gun is not cocked.

Once all guns are clear and there are no unfired rounds, the guns should be grounded with the lever checked to see that the gun is not cocked.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Both

Answer: (A)

Safety in handling firearms means more than just removing ammunition. Even when there are no unfired rounds, the mechanism can still hold potential energy if it’s cocked. Verifying that the lever is not cocked ensures there is no stored energy that could release with a bump or trigger pull. Grounding the gun—placing it in a stable, secure position—prevents it from rolling or being moved into a risky position. Together, these steps make sure the firearm is truly in a safe state before anyone handles it further. That’s why this practice is correct.

Safety in handling firearms means more than just removing ammunition. Even when there are no unfired rounds, the mechanism can still hold potential energy if it’s cocked. Verifying that the lever is not cocked ensures there is no stored energy that could release with a bump or trigger pull. Grounding the gun—placing it in a stable, secure position—prevents it from rolling or being moved into a risky position. Together, these steps make sure the firearm is truly in a safe state before anyone handles it further. That’s why this practice is correct.