What is essential to do when you hold a firearm?

The key to handling a firearm safely is to control the direction of the muzzle and maintain a firm grip on the firearm. This practice minimizes the risk of accidental discharge and ensures that if a mistake occurs, the muzzle is directed away from people and property. Proper control of the firearm allows the handler to effectively manage its movement, especially in dynamic situations that might occur while hunting or during transport.

Keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction is a fundamental rule of firearm safety. This often means pointing it towards the ground or a designated safe area. However, simply keeping the firearm pointed downward isn't sufficient by itself; maintaining a firm grip ensures that the firearm remains under control and mitigates the chances of slipping or losing it in a moment of distraction or unexpected movement.

Thus, being aware of the muzzle's direction and maintaining a proper hold on the firearm is critical for safe handling and responsible firearm ownership.