Which gun safety rule applies to all methods of carrying firearms?

Pointing the muzzle in a safe direction is an essential gun safety rule that applies to all methods of carrying firearms. This principle ensures that the firearm is not inadvertently directed towards a person or an area where a discharge could cause harm. Regardless of whether you're walking, sitting, or handling a firearm, maintaining the muzzle away from yourself and others significantly reduces the risk of accidental shootings.

This rule is foundational because it emphasizes the importance of awareness and control over the firearm at all times. In contrast, other options present practices that do not universally apply to every situation involving firearm handling. For example, keeping the safety "off" while walking could lead to unintended discharges if the firearm is stumbled upon, while keeping your finger on the trigger until ready to shoot can result in serious accidents if the firearm is accidentally discharged at a wrong moment. Additionally, while keeping a firearm unloaded when not in use is a crucial safety measure, it does not specifically address the circumstances of carrying a firearm where the weapon may be loaded. Hence, the emphasis on directing the muzzle safely remains the most universally applicable guideline.