What should you always treat all guns as?

Always treating all guns as if they are loaded is a fundamental principle of firearm safety. This approach instills a crucial mindset that prioritizes safety and responsibility. By assuming that every firearm is loaded, individuals are prompted to handle it with the utmost care and caution, significantly reducing the risk of accidental discharges.

This principle serves as a constant reminder to maintain a safe direction, keep fingers off the trigger until ready to shoot, and ensure that the firearm is properly secured when not in use. Adopting this perspective is essential whether one is handling their own gun or someone else's, as it reinforces a culture of safety that is pivotal in preventing accidents.

In contrast, the other choices do not emphasize the critical nature of safety. Treating a gun as if it is malfunctioning may lead to neglecting standard safety protocols, while considering it as belonging to someone else does not inherently ensure safe handling. Lastly, viewing a firearm as purely for display could result in improper handling habits that can translate into dangerous situations in practical scenarios. Therefore, the correct practice is to treat every firearm as if it is loaded, fostering a culture of respect and vigilance around firearms.