What should a hunter do when crossing a fence while hunting alone?

When a hunter is crossing a fence, it's crucial to prioritize safety, particularly concerning the firearm. Placing the unloaded gun on the other side of the fence, with the muzzle pointing away, is the safest practice. This action ensures that the firearm is not in a position to accidentally discharge and harm the hunter or anyone else in the vicinity. By keeping the muzzle pointed away, the risk of injury during this critical moment is minimized, as no one is positioned downrange of the firearm.

Additionally, ensuring that the gun is unloaded before crossing the fence is essential in preventing any accidental discharges, further enhancing safety. This method allows the hunter to focus on crossing the fence without the distraction or risk of managing a loaded firearm at that time. Other methods, such as carrying the gun over the fence or throwing it, present more risks, as they can lead to loss of control of the weapon and a higher chance of an accidental discharge.