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What should you do before cleaning your firearm?

  1. Disassemble it completely

  2. Make sure it is loaded

  3. Unload it

  4. Notify others

The correct answer is: Unload it

Before cleaning your firearm, it is essential to unload it. This step ensures that there are no rounds in the chamber or magazine, thereby making the firearm safe to handle. Performing this action helps prevent accidental discharges, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Unloading involves removing any ammunition from the firearm and visually and physically inspecting the chamber to confirm that it is clear. This practice is a fundamental safety rule in firearms handling and should always be the first step before any maintenance or cleaning procedure. While disassembling the firearm, notifying others, and ensuring it is loaded are considerations that come into play in various circumstances, they do not address the immediate concern of safety regarding the presence of ammunition when preparing to clean the firearm. Ensuring the firearm is unloaded must take precedence to promote a safe working environment.