New York Firearms Safety Course Practice Exam

What is the correct way to pass a firearm to another person?

1. With the action open and the gun unloaded

2. With the gun's safety engaged

3. After verbally confirming the gun is unloaded

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: With the action open and the gun unloaded

The most appropriate way to pass a firearm to another person is indeed with the action open and the gun unloaded. This practice ensures maximum safety by minimizing the risk of an accidental discharge. An open action visually confirms that the chamber is empty, providing reassurance to the receiving person that the firearm is not loaded. While engaging the safety is a good practice, it is not a foolproof method to confirm that a firearm is safe to handle, as safeties can sometimes fail. Verifying verbally that the gun is unloaded is also a responsible step, but without the physical confirmation of an open action, it may not provide complete assurance. By passing the firearm with the action open and unloaded, you establish a clear and unequivocal standard of safety that should be a priority in all firearm handling situations.