California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

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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.

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What is the first step you should take before cleaning a firearm?

  1. Disassemble the gun

  2. Check the safety

  3. Make sure the gun is unloaded

  4. Clean the barrel

The correct answer is: Make sure the gun is unloaded

The first step you should take before cleaning a firearm is to make sure the gun is unloaded. This is a critical safety measure because it ensures that there is no live ammunition in the firearm, reducing the risk of an accidental discharge while you are handling and cleaning it. Checking the firearm for any rounds in the chamber and the magazine is essential, as it promotes a safe environment for maintenance. Disassembling the gun, checking the safety, and cleaning the barrel should only be done after ensuring that the firearm is completely unloaded. These steps may be necessary for proper cleaning and maintenance, but they should never precede the verification of whether the gun is unloaded.