Bolt action

A bolt-action firearm operates like opening and closing a door bolt.

Loading

The bolt can be lifted and pulled back to see whether the chamber is loaded. While closing the bolt, a cartridge from the magazine is guided into the chamber, which loads the firearm. Generally, if the chamber is loaded, a cartridge is ejected when the bolt is opened and pulled rearward.

Unloading and inspection

To safely unload a bolt action, point the muzzle in a safe direction. Pull the bolt back until the cartridge comes out, and then leave the action open. Remove the magazine if present.

Inspect the chamber both with your eyes and with your fingers to ensure there is no cartridge in the chamber. Say the word ‘empty’ when you are convinced the firearm is unloaded.