When loading a firearm, which step should be done first?

Pointing the muzzle in a safe direction is the first and most critical step when loading a firearm. This practice is rooted in the foundational safety rule of gun handling, which emphasizes that the firearm should always be pointed away from anything you do not intend to shoot. By ensuring that the muzzle is directed safely, you minimize the risk of accidental discharge causing injury to yourself or others.

Following this safety step, the other actions concerning loading a firearm can be performed more securely. Loading the ammunition and closing the action represent necessary procedures for making the firearm ready to fire, but they should never precede confirming that the gun is pointed safely. Opening the action is typically used to check the chamber before loading or unloading, but it is not a step that takes precedence over ensuring the muzzle is directed safely. Being aware of and practicing safe handling procedures significantly decreases the chances of accidents during firearms use.