Manitoba Hunter Safety Practice Exam

What is the first thing a hunter should do every time he or she loads a firearm?

1. Check the barrel for obstructions

2. Clean the firearm with a well-oiled rag

3. Adjust the sights on the firearm

4. Have the firearm inspected by a gunsmith

The correct answer is: Check the barrel for obstructions

Before handling a firearm, it is crucial to ensure that the barrel is free of any obstructions. This is because a loaded firearm with an obstruction in the barrel can cause serious injury or even death to the person using it or people in the vicinity. Cleaning the firearm or adjusting the sights are not necessary before every use and should be done at appropriate intervals. Having the firearm inspected by a gunsmith is also important, but it is not the first thing that should be done when handling a firearm.