How should you verify that your firearm is unloaded?

To verify that a firearm is unloaded, the best practice is to open the action and check the chamber. This method ensures that you visually confirm the status of the firearm. When the action is opened, you have direct access to the chamber, allowing you to see if there are any cartridges present. Additionally, checking the chamber allows for a thorough inspection, which is a fundamental safety practice that should always be followed when handling firearms.

Looking through the barrel is not recommended since it does not provide a reliable indication of whether a round is chambered and can be dangerous. Pulling the trigger can lead to an accidental discharge if a live round is present, making it an unsafe option. Shaking the firearm does not provide accurate information about whether it is loaded, as the sound of loose parts or ammunition does not guarantee safety. Therefore, opening the action and visually inspecting the chamber is the most responsible and safe method to confirm that a firearm is unloaded.