California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

What is the primary rule to follow when picking up a firearm?

1. Immediately check if the safety is engaged

2. Point the firearm in a safe direction and check if it's loaded

3. Pull the trigger to ensure it's not loaded

4. Shout to alert others that you are picking up the firearm

The correct answer is: Point the firearm in a safe direction and check if it's loaded

The primary rule to follow when picking up a firearm is to point the firearm in a safe direction and check if it's loaded. This is crucial for ensuring safety as it helps prevent accidental discharges that could cause injury or death. When you pick up a firearm, maintaining control of the muzzle direction is essential, as it minimizes the risk to yourself and others. Checking if the firearm is loaded immediately after picking it up confirms its status and prepares you for safe handling. While engaging the safety is important, it is not the first step in ensuring safety when picking up a firearm. Pulling the trigger to check if the firearm is unloaded is dangerous and could lead to an unintended discharge. Similarly, shouting to alert others is not necessary and does not directly contribute to the immediate safety measures that should be taken when handling a firearm.