SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hunt-transfer-back-turned

Which way should you face while unloading a firearm before handing it over?

Unload with your back toward the recipient.

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  1. Back toward the recipient ✔
  2. Muzzle toward the recipient
  3. Sideways with action closed

Why: Turn away so the firearm can remain pointed safely while you unload it. Then open the action and verify the chamber and magazine are empty.

Huh, didn't know that: IHEA-USA also says to engage the safety before passing the firearm.

The dad joke
Why did the safe handoff turn around? It had the recipient's back.
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References

Answer: Back toward the recipient. Turn away so the firearm can remain pointed safely while you unload it. Then open the action and verify the chamber and magazine are empty.

  1. IHEA-USA Education Standards: The Complete Guide www.ihea-usa.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IHEAUSA_HunterEduStd_Comp_Digital-1.pdf
    Unload the firearm with your back toward the other person
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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Hunting SafetyWhen can you be absolutely certain a gun cannot fire?Hunting SafetyWho should verify an open firearm is empty during a handoff?Hunting SafetyUnder the primary rules of firearm safety, how should you treat every firearm?

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