During unloading, which step is performed first to show a rifle clear?

• A. Lock the action open.
• B. Remove the magazine.
• C. Visually inspect the chamber.
• D. Cycle the action to eject any chambered round.

Answer: (B)

The crucial idea here is that to prove a rifle is clear, you must remove the source of ammunition first. Taking the magazine out stops any rounds from being fed into the chamber and gives you access to the chamber itself. With the magazine removed, you would typically lock the action open to hold the chamber in view and prevent feeding, then cycle the action to eject any round that might be in the chamber, and finally visually inspect the chamber to confirm it is empty. Starting with magazine removal ensures you’re not hiding a live round and sets up a safe, verifiable check of the chamber.