What is the third action you must take after receiving a gun?

The correct action to take after receiving a gun is to hold the rifle with fingers outside the trigger guard. This is crucial for safety, as it helps prevent accidental discharges caused by an unintentional pull of the trigger. By maintaining your fingers outside the trigger guard, you minimize the risk of firing the gun inadvertently, especially if you are still assessing the firearm or preparing to handle it.

This action forms part of the fundamental principles of firearm safety, which emphasize that anytime you are handling a gun, your finger should not be on or near the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Proper handling techniques significantly contribute to maintaining a safe environment, particularly in settings such as JROTC where discipline around firearms is paramount.