The action of a firearm is made up of parts that load, unload, fire, and eject the ammunition.

The instructions you are about to see on loading and unloading firearms are general in nature and should be treated as a guide to the proper procedures. You should always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your particular firearm.


 

Loading and unloading a pump action firearm

The pump-action is fast and smooth. It allows the shooter to re-cock the firearm without taking his eye off the target. To operate the pump action, pull the forestock back toward the trigger. This motion will open the action and expose the chamber. Moving the forestock toward the muzzle closes the action. The pump-action is also called the slide-action.

Pump action

Loading a pump-action firearm

  1. Place the safety to the ON or SAFE position.

  2. Point the firearm in a safe direction with your finger outside the trigger guard.

  3. Double check to ensure the firearm is unloaded.

  4. Check the barrel for any obstructions.

  5. Close the action while watching the chamber to ensure that it remains empty during loading.

  6. Insert the correct ammunition into the magazine.

  7. Operate the pump once to load a live cartridge into the chamber.

Unloading a pump-action firearm

  1. Engage the safety if possible.

  2. Point the firearm in a safe direction with your finger outside the trigger guard.

  3. If applicable, remove the box magazine.

  4. Operate the action release button to unlock the pump mechanism.

  5. As the bolt clears the ejection port, reach inside and remove the previously chambered round with the thumb and index finger of the right hand.

  6. Push the shell carrier up until it stops against the bolt and bring the forearm completely to the rear.

  7. Remove any shells in the magazine tube by depressing the shell stop and releasing them one at a time.

  8. Leave the action open.

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