What should you do first when you pick up a firearm?

When picking up a firearm, the first action you should take is to open the action. This step is crucial because it allows you to visually and physically confirm that the firearm is unloaded, ensuring that there is no ammunition in the chamber or magazine. By opening the action, you significantly reduce the risk of an accidental discharge, which is paramount for safety.

Understanding this procedure is essential for responsible firearm handling. It establishes a foundational habit that reinforces safety protocols whenever you interact with a firearm, whether it's in a hunting or target shooting scenario. By prioritizing the opening of the action, you also set the stage for the subsequent steps, such as checking the ammunition and confirming that the firearm is behaving as expected.

This process of verifying the condition of the firearm is a critical component in firearm safety training and reflects the importance of treating every firearm as though it is loaded until proven otherwise.