What is the common practice for transporting a firearm while hunting?

Transporting a firearm while hunting is typically done in a case with the action open to ensure safety. This practice minimizes the risk of accidental discharge during transport. By having the action open, it clearly indicates that the firearm is not in a ready-to-fire state, which is crucial for safety protocols. Additionally, a cased firearm is better protected from environmental elements and physical damage.

Other practices, such as carrying a loaded firearm or one with the barrel facing up, pose greater risks. A firearm loaded and ready for immediate use increases the chance of an accidental discharge during transport. Similarly, transporting a firearm with the barrel facing up can be dangerous if the firearm slips or is mishandled, as it still risks an accidental discharge if the safety mechanisms fail.

Transporting in the trunk of a vehicle is safe, but the preferred practice of having the firearm cased with the action open is more universally accepted as the best safety measure when transporting firearms.