What is the correct procedure for loading or unloading a firearm on the range?

Staying on the firing line with the muzzle pointed down range is a critical safety protocol when loading or unloading a firearm on the range. This procedure ensures that the firearm is always pointed in a safe direction, minimizing the risk of accidental discharge that could lead to injuries. When the firearm is pointed down range, any potential mishap is directed away from people and areas that could be harmed.

This practice is rooted in fundamental gun safety rules, which emphasize the importance of controlling the direction of the muzzle at all times. Following this procedure helps maintain safety for all participants in the shooting range environment. It reinforces the collective responsibility among shooters to uphold a safe shooting culture.

While the other options involve considerations of safety or behavior, they do not address the essential requirement of keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction during loading and unloading processes as directly as the correct choice does.