What is the proper way to carry a firearm?

Carrying a firearm properly is crucial for safety, and the correct choice emphasizes maintaining control and ensuring the safety of yourself and others. Pointing the muzzle in a safe direction, with the action open, is essential for preventing accidental discharges. An open action indicates that the firearm is unloaded, which reduces the risk of unintended harm.

Maintaining the muzzle in a safe direction is a foundational rule of firearm safety; it means pointing the firearm away from yourself and others, typically either down or towards a designated target area. This practice greatly minimizes the risk of injury in the event of a slip or an accident.

While other options may suggest different aspects of firearm handling, they do not prioritize safety as effectively. For instance, having the safety disengaged contradicts the principles of safe handling because it increases the risk of accidental discharge if the firearm is mishandled. Similarly, carrying with the muzzle facing down is not always safe in every context, as it may still endanger those nearby depending on the environment. Finally, holding a firearm above waist level without control can lead to unsafe situations, especially if balance is lost or if the handler encounters obstacles. Thus, the emphasis on a safe direction and an open action ensures both the handler's and others' safety.