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Before cleaning any firearm, what is the first thing you should do?

  1. Remove the magazine

  2. Check that the firearm is unloaded

  3. Disassemble the firearm

  4. Apply cleaning solvents

The correct answer is: Check that the firearm is unloaded

The first step before cleaning any firearm is to check that it is unloaded. This crucial step ensures safety by confirming that there are no live rounds in the chamber or magazine, reducing the risk of accidental discharge. Proper safety protocol mandates that a firearm should always be treated as if it is loaded, which makes verifying it is indeed unloaded the top priority before handling or cleaning. Removing the magazine is an important part of the process but it should come as part of checking that the firearm is unloaded. Disassembling the firearm and applying cleaning solvents should only be done once it has been established that the firearm is safe to handle. Taking these steps in the correct order helps to foster safe handling practices and instills a culture of responsibility when working with firearms.