What is a basic safety rule for cleaning a rifle?

Make sure it is unloaded and pointed safely.

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  1. Make sure it is unloaded and pointed safely ✔
  2. Clean it while loaded
  3. Clean it with people in front

Why: Before cleaning, confirm the rifle is unloaded and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

Huh, didn't know that: Before cleaning, confirm the rifle is unloaded and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

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References

Answer: Make sure it is unloaded and pointed safely. Before cleaning, confirm the rifle is unloaded and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

  1. Scouting America: Rifle Shooting www.scouting.org/merit-badges/rifle-shooting
    Explain the basic safety rules for cleaning a rifle, and identify the materials needed
    Checked 2026-11-07.

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