Which combination of steps is required to verify that a firearm is unloaded before maintenance?

• A. Remove the magazine, lock the slide open, visually inspect the chamber and magazine well.
• B. Wipe down the grip and stored magazines.
• C. Check the serial number against a tester.
• D. Confirm by asking a partner to check for you.

Answer: (D)

Verifying that a firearm is unloaded requires a positive, hands-on check of the weapon. To do this safely, you first remove the magazine so there’s no feeder or live round in the magazine. Then you lock the slide back to expose the chamber. With the slide held open, you visually inspect the chamber and the magazine well to confirm there is no cartridge present. If you’re unsure, you can cycle the slide to eject any potential round and recheck, but the key is a direct, intentional verification by you. Wiping down surfaces, checking a serial number, or asking someone else to check do not establish that the firearm is unloaded, and they shouldn’t replace your own careful verification.