Ok, so here is my regular plan-

Revolver - fully loaded, usually speed loader and/or strips nearby.

1911 - Fully loaded, cocked, locked, holstered. Several spare mags close at hand.

Sig DA/SA - Fully loaded, de-cocked, one in the chamber, spare mags close at hand

Pump Shotgun - Full tube, empty chamber (truck or house)

Double barrel shotgun - Not really used for SD/HD purposes - empty until ready to shoot.

Mag fed AR, M1A, Mini-14 - Loaded mag, empty chamber. Mag inserted if carried in vehicle or slung, mag separate if at home.

Bolt guns - unloaded until ready to use (not for HD/SD)

Magazine fed bolt guns - (for critter defense) loaded mag separate from rifle.

There is no answer to fit everyone. Know 100% how your guns work. Always handle them as if they were loaded!

My SD/HD guns are ready to go RIGHT DANG NOW, not later.

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On the Oak Savannah