New York State Court Officers Practice Exam

What is the Fifth Step in the Clearing Procedure?

1. Inspecting visually and physically (the chamber and magazine well)

2. Rack the slide (minimum 3 times)

3. Point the gun in a safe direction (no loss of life, minimal property damage)

4. Fire quickly + accurately

The correct answer is: Inspecting visually and physically (the chamber and magazine well)

The correct answer focuses on the critical safety protocols that must be followed in firearms handling. The Fifth Step in the Clearing Procedure involves conducting a thorough visual and physical inspection of the firearm, specifically checking the chamber and magazine well to ensure that they are clear of ammunition. This step is essential as it confirms that the firearm is completely unloaded and safe to handle further, minimizing the risk of accidental discharge. Visual and physical inspections are fundamental in firearms safety training, as they reinforce the importance of personally verifying that no live ammunition remains in the firearm. This step ensures that all users adhere to stringent safety measures before proceeding with any handling or storage of the firearm. In contrast, other options might refer to important elements of firearm handling but don't specifically pinpoint the thorough inspection process as outlined in the question. Rack the slide multiple times is more about clearing a potential obstruction rather than confirming a clear state. Pointing the gun in a safe direction emphasizes on handling but is not uniquely the Fifth Step. Firing quickly and accurately refers to shooting practice rather than the safety measures needed when clearing a weapon. Thus, the step emphasizing inspection accurately captures the intended procedure in ensuring safety and preparedness with firearms.