What should a shooter do immediately after removing their finger from the trigger while clearing a stoppage during a Handgun Practical Course?

After removing the finger from the trigger while clearing a stoppage, it is crucial for the shooter to engage the decocking or safety lever if available. This action serves a fundamental safety purpose: it prevents accidental discharges while the shooter is handling the firearm. Engaging the decocking or safety lever ensures that the firearm is rendered safe and reduces the potential for an unintentional discharge as the shooter proceeds with clearing the stoppage.

Safety mechanisms are typically designed to provide an additional layer of security, particularly during potentially stressful situations such as dealing with a stoppage. By engaging this safety feature, the shooter reinforces safe handling practices and contributes to overall firearm safety in training and operational scenarios. This step is essential and should be a part of a routine safety protocol while handling firearms.

While inspecting the magazine, clearing the chamber, or holstering the weapon are all important steps in the process of addressing firearm stoppages, they should be performed after ensuring that the gun is in a safe condition, which is achieved by first engaging the decocking or safety lever.