Minnesota Firearms Safety Hunter Education Practice Exam

Before climbing a tree or before climbing into a tree stand, what should you do with your firearm?

1. Climb with the firearm in your hand

2. Unload the firearm and use a haul line

3. Keep the firearm loaded but on safety

4. Carry the firearm over your shoulder

The correct answer is: Unload the firearm and use a haul line

Before climbing a tree or climbing into a tree stand, it is crucial to unload the firearm and use a haul line to bring it up after you have safely reached your position. This is the correct safety protocol to prevent any accidental discharge of the firearm while climbing. It is important to always prioritize safety when handling firearms in hunting situations. Option A is incorrect because climbing with the firearm in your hand can increase the risk of accidental discharge or dropping the firearm. Option C is incorrect because keeping the firearm loaded, even if it is on safety, still presents a safety risk while climbing. Option D is incorrect because carrying the firearm over your shoulder while climbing can be dangerous as the firearm may swing or become entangled in branches, leading to accidents. Therefore, the safest option is to unload the firearm and use a haul line when climbing a tree or climbing into a tree stand.