After ensuring the muzzle is safe, what is the second step in gun safety?

The second step in gun safety, which involves checking and opening the action of the gun, is crucial because it ensures that the firearm is in a safe state before handling it further. By checking and opening the action, you can confirm that the gun is unloaded and remove any potential ammunition that might be in the chamber or magazine. This step is essential to prevent accidental discharges and enhances overall safety when handling the firearm.

While holding the gun firmly, keeping the rifle pointed downrange, and ensuring eye protection are all important safety precautions, they come into play after you’ve verified that the firearm is unloaded. The priority is always to ensure the gun is in a safe condition before any further actions are taken.