What should you do before handling a firearm you are unfamiliar with?

• A. Fire several rounds to test.
• B. Obtain instruction, read the manual, and ensure you know all safety features and loading/unloading procedures.
• C. Handle it with finger on the trigger.
• D. Do nothing.

Answer: (B)

Before handling a firearm you’re unfamiliar with, the most important step is to obtain instruction and read the manual to learn the specific safety features and the correct loading and unloading procedures for that model. This ensures you understand exactly how it operates, where the safe and unsafe points are, and the proper steps to verify it’s unloaded before handling it. Different firearms have different safeties, controls, and sequences, so relying on general assumptions can lead to accidental discharges or other injuries. Training and written guidance help you apply safe handling practices reliably, such as keeping the muzzle in a safe direction, keeping your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and following the correct procedure for loading and unloading. Jumping in without that knowledge—whether by firing without instruction, handling with a finger on the trigger, or doing nothing—ignores fundamental safety rules and greatly increases risk.