Which safety principles apply across all classes of firearms?

The selection of the Vital Four ACTS of Firearms Safety and PROVE as the correct answer is based on their fundamental importance in ensuring safe handling of firearms, regardless of the type or class. The Vital Four ACTS, which stand for Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded, Control the direction of your muzzle, Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and Be sure of your target and what is beyond it, serve as the foundational principles of firearm safety that should be applied universally to all firearms. These principles are critical in preventing accidents and ensuring responsible firearm use.

PROVE, which stands for Point the firearm in a safe direction, Remove all ammunition, Observe the chamber, Verify the feeding path, and Examine the firearm, also reiterates the necessity of thorough checks and balances before handling a firearm. Both sets of principles help instill a culture of safety and caution among firearm users, minimizing the risk of mishaps.

Other options like gun maintenance and storage, while important aspects of responsible firearm ownership, are more specific and do not apply universally to every situation involving firearms. Legal laws vary significantly depending on jurisdiction and the specific type of firearm, thus not providing a universal safety principle. Basic shooting techniques, though essential for effective use