During handling, what is the correct muzzle direction?

• A. Upward toward the sky.
• B. Downrange or in a safe direction.
• C. Toward your head.
• D. Toward another person.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is to always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. A safe direction is where a discharged round would go without causing harm, typically downrange toward a backstop or into an area away from people. This minimizes risk during handling. Pointing the muzzle upward toward the sky could let a bullet travel far and harm someone; toward your head or toward another person could cause serious injury or death. So the best practice is to keep the muzzle downrange or in another clearly safe direction.