How should a firearm be positioned during cleaning?

The proper way to position a firearm during cleaning is to have the action open and pointed in a safe direction. This ensures that any potential accidental discharge of the firearm cannot harm anyone, as the firearm is being handled in a way that minimizes risk.

When the action is open, it also visibly indicates that the firearm is unloaded, providing an additional layer of safety. It is crucial to maintain awareness of the muzzle direction at all times, since even an unloaded firearm can pose a danger if handled carelessly. By being pointed in a safe direction, you reduce the risk of injury to yourself or others in case of an inadvertent trigger pull.

Positioning the firearm with the action closed, whether pointed at the ground or in a safe direction, does not provide the same level of safety during cleaning, as it could potentially allow for an accidental discharge without immediate confirmation of the firearm's status. Therefore, having the action open while ensuring the muzzle is pointed safely is the best practice for firearm cleaning.