What should be done when finished shooting at a range?

When finishing shooting at a range, it is essential to open the action and visually inspect that the firearm is unloaded. This practice is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures that the firearm is safe to handle and transport. By confirming that there are no rounds in the chamber or magazine, the shooter reduces the risk of accidental discharges, which can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

This action serves as a responsible final check before leaving the shooting area. It promotes a culture of safety in shooting environments and reinforces the importance of knowing the status of your firearm at all times.

In contrast, simply leaving the firearm on the table without inspecting it may lead to unsafe situations, and loading it back into the case without checking could inadvertently allow for a round to be in the chamber, increasing the risk of mishaps. Handing the firearm to a friend, although it might seem like a safety measure, does not guarantee that the firearm is unloaded, and there is also the possibility of miscommunication about the gun's status. Therefore, visually inspecting that the firearm is clear is the most responsible and safest practice when concluding a shooting session.