To make sure a bolt-action firearm is unloaded, the following must be checked:
- Point the firearm in a safe direction and keep your finger off the trigger.
- Engage the safety if possible.
- Open the action by lifting the bolt handle and pulling it back to eject any cartridge or empty casing from the chamber.
- Remove the magazine if the firearm has a detachable one and ensure no cartridges remain in it.
- Visually inspect the chamber to confirm it is empty.
- Insert your finger into the chamber to double-check there is no cartridge.
- Check the feeding path or magazine area to make sure no rounds remain.
- Leave the action open after confirming the firearm is unloaded.
These steps ensure that no ammunition is present in the chamber or magazine, and the firearm is in a safe state.
