What is the first step in cleaning a firearm?

Pointing the muzzle in a safe direction is the foundational step in cleaning a firearm. This ensures the safety of the individual handling the firearm as well as those around them. Firearms, even when they are believed to be unloaded, should always be treated with the utmost caution. By directing the muzzle away from people, animals, and any potential hazards, the risk of accidental discharge is minimized during the cleaning process.

Though cleaning from the breech end, field stripping the firearm, and using solvents in a well-ventilated area are also important steps in the process, they follow the critical safety protocol of ensuring that the firearm is pointed safely. This fundamental practice is ingrained in firearm safety training to establish a culture of responsibility and awareness among firearm owners. Keeping safety as the first priority is essential in any handling situation, especially during tasks like cleaning.