What constitutes 'brandishing' a firearm?

Brandishing a firearm refers specifically to the act of displaying a firearm in a manner that is threatening or intimidating to others. This behavior can create a sense of fear or apprehension in individuals nearby and is often regarded as an unlawful action. The intent behind brandishing is significant, as it demonstrates a readiness to use the weapon in a confrontational or violent way, which can escalate a situation unnecessarily.

The other options describe scenarios that do not involve the element of threat. For instance, displaying a firearm for educational purposes typically emphasizes a responsible and constructive intent, while carrying a firearm in a holster indicates lawful possession without any aggressive connotation. Similarly, showing a firearm to friends lacks the threatening aspect inherent in brandishing, as it may be done in a casual or non-threatening context. Therefore, the key characteristic of brandishing lies in the threatening manner of the display, making it a distinct and serious issue in firearm safety and legal contexts.