Your trigger finger must be kept off the trigger until you are actually ready to shoot?

The principle of keeping your trigger finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot is a fundamental aspect of firearm safety. This practice is essential to prevent accidental discharges and ensure that the firearm is only fired when aimed at a target and you have made a conscious decision to shoot. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining control and awareness of your firearm at all times.

By keeping your finger outside the trigger guard and resting it alongside the frame of the firearm, you significantly reduce the risk of unintentional injuries or fatalities that can occur from mishandling or unexpected environmental factors. This critical safety measure promotes responsible handling of firearms in all situations, whether during practice, competition, or in real-life scenarios.

In contrast, the other options suggest varying standards of safety that could lead to risky behaviors. These alternatives could create a false sense of security or encourage laxity in safety practices, which is against the core principles of responsible firearm handling.