California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for your California Firearm Safety Certificate exam with our comprehensive practice tests. Master the key concepts and ensure your success with detailed explanations for every question.

Practice this question and more.


Before cleaning a firearm, what is the first thing you should do?

  1. Disassemble it

  2. Unload it

  3. Put on gloves

  4. Lock it

The correct answer is: Unload it

Before cleaning a firearm, the primary and critical first step is to unload it. This ensures that there are no live ammunition or rounds present in the firearm, significantly reducing the risk of accidental discharge while handling or cleaning the weapon. Unloading the firearm creates a safe environment for both the individual and those around them. While disassembling the firearm, putting on gloves, and locking it are also important steps in firearm safety and maintenance, they follow the essential action of ensuring the firearm is unloaded first. Prioritizing safety by eliminating any potential for an unintended discharge is the foundation of responsible gun handling and maintenance.