What must be done with a firearm when a shooter is not in the firing position?

When a shooter is not in the firing position, the critical principle of firearm safety dictates that the firearm must be made safe and pointed downrange. This means ensuring that the firearm is not loaded and that the muzzle is directed away from any individuals or unintended targets. Pointing the firearm downrange at all times significantly reduces the risk of accidental discharge and enhances safety for everyone present in the range environment.

Making the firearm safe involves clearing the action, checking the magazine or cylinder, and potentially engaging any safety mechanisms available on the firearm, ensuring it cannot unintentionally discharge. This practice minimizes dangers associated with mishandling while ensuring that there is a clear understanding of the location and handling procedures for firearms when they are not actively used in shooting.

Other options may suggest alternative routes such as holstering or transferring the firearm to another individual, but these practices can introduce additional risks if not performed under strict safety measures. Additionally, locking the firearm in a safe could be overly restrictive in situations where immediate access may be needed, depending on the context of use on the range. Thus, the most universally accepted and safest approach is to make the firearm safe and maintain its orientation pointing downrange.