California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

What should you do to ensure a gun is safe to operate?

1. Check the barrel for obstructions

2. Only load the maximum number of rounds

3. Disassemble and reassemble the gun rapidly

4. Keep the gun stored in a humid environment

The correct answer is: Check the barrel for obstructions

Checking the barrel for obstructions is the critical first step in ensuring a firearm is safe to operate. An obstruction in the barrel, such as dirt, a stuck bullet, or any foreign material, can cause a dangerous situation when the gun is fired. The pressure generated when a round is fired can create a catastrophic failure if the barrel is blocked, leading to injury or damage to the firearm and the shooter. The other options do not promote safe firearm handling. Loading the maximum number of rounds without verification and assessment of the situation can lead to mishandling or incidents. Rapidly disassembling and reassembling the firearm could introduce safety risks and is unnecessary for basic safety checks. Storing a gun in a humid environment can lead to rust and degradation of the firearm, compromising its safety and functionality. Therefore, ensuring the barrel is clear of obstructions is essential for safe firearm operation.