Which of the following actions is essential before handling a firearm?

Ensuring the firearm is unloaded is essential before handling it because it establishes the foundational safety practices required for working with firearms. Handling an unloaded firearm minimizes the risk of accidental discharge, which can lead to serious injury or death. This step is crucial to confirm that the chamber is clear, the magazine is removed, and no ammunition is present in the firearm.

While cleaning the firearm, adjusting the sights, or gathering ammunition are important aspects of firearm maintenance or preparation, they are not prerequisites for safely handling a firearm. Focusing on confirming that a firearm is unloaded is the most critical step in any safe handling procedure, as it directly addresses the prevention of unintended discharges.