Chapter 10: Safe Hunting Skills
Clearing Obstructions

Unload

• Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
• Put the safety on, if possible. (Most firearms need to be on "fire" to open the action.)
• Empty/remove the magazine. (With tubular magazines, work the action several times to make sure the magazine is empty.)
• Open the firearm's action.
• Look into and feel the chamber to check for any ammunition.

Check the Barrel

• Bolt Action: Remove the bolt, and look through the chamber into the barrel.
• Hinge Action: With the action open, look through the chamber into the barrel.
• Slide Action or Pump Action: Remove the barrel and look into it.
• Lever Action: Use a cleaning rod to check the barrel.

Remove the Obstruction

• Use a cleaning rod to remove the obstruction.
• Make sure that the entire obstruction is removed before attempting to fire.
• Never attempt to "shoot out" the obstruction.

Never look down a barrel from the muzzle end to check for obstructions.