What is the first step when you pick up a firearm?

The first step when picking up a firearm is to open the action and check for any ammunition. This action is crucial for ensuring safety, as it allows the handler to confirm that the firearm is unloaded before proceeding with any further handling. By checking the chamber and magazine for ammunition, you minimize the risk of accidental discharge, which is a primary concern in firearm safety. This practice cultivates a disciplined approach to handling firearms, ensuring that every person understands the importance of verifying the condition of the firearm before use or storage.

Other activities, such as putting on shooting gloves, reading the instruction manual, or cleaning the firearm, may be important depending on the context but do not directly address the immediate safety concerns associated with handling a firearm. Safety must always be the foremost priority, and ensuring the firearm is unloaded is the essential first step in that process.