What is the first step in the M18 clearing procedure?

What is the first step in the M18 clearing procedure?

• A. Magazine: Remove ammo source by pressing magazine catch/release button
• B. Chamber: Lock slide to the rear
• C. Visually inspect chamber
• D. Safety: Place the manual safety on safe position by moving selector to up position

Answer: (D)

Engaging the manual safety first creates a safe starting condition before you touch the firearm. When the safety is in the safe position, the gun cannot discharge even if a round is chambered or the trigger is inadvertently moved during the clearance sequence. This protective step reduces risk as you proceed to remove the magazine (the ammunition source), lock the slide to the rear to expose the chamber, and visually inspect the chamber to confirm it’s empty. Prioritizing the safety step helps ensure everything you do afterward is performed under safe control.

Engaging the manual safety first creates a safe starting condition before you touch the firearm. When the safety is in the safe position, the gun cannot discharge even if a round is chambered or the trigger is inadvertently moved during the clearance sequence. This protective step reduces risk as you proceed to remove the magazine (the ammunition source), lock the slide to the rear to expose the chamber, and visually inspect the chamber to confirm it’s empty. Prioritizing the safety step helps ensure everything you do afterward is performed under safe control.