How should you position the air rifle immediately after a shot is fired?

After a shot is fired, it is essential to prioritize safety and ensure the air rifle is in a safe condition. Opening the bolt (or action) serves as a critical safety measure because it visually indicates that the firearm is not loaded and cannot fire. This practice minimizes the risk of an accidental discharge, which is paramount in any shooting environment.

The act of opening the bolt also allows for immediate clearing of any projectile or debris that may remain in the chamber and helps preserve the safe handling of the air rifle during a shooting session. It establishes a clear line of communication that the rifle is temporarily out of service, maintaining a safe atmosphere for all participants on the range.

Other actions listed, such as pointing the rifle at the ground or placing it prone, do not convey the same level of assurance regarding the firearm's status and can still pose risks if someone were to misjudge the rifle's state. Handing it over to a range officer, while potentially safe under some conditions, does not provide the immediate confirmation of an unloaded state as actively opening the bolt does. Thus, opening the bolt immediately after shooting is the best practice for ensuring continued safety and preparedness in a shooting environment.