Should you use a shoulder carry if someone is behind you?

Using a shoulder carry when someone is behind you is not advisable due to safety concerns related to firearm handling. In a shoulder carry, the muzzle of the firearm may be directed in a potentially dangerous direction, especially if there is a person standing behind you. Even if the gun is unloaded, it is crucial to maintain safe handling practices at all times to instill a culture of safety that extends beyond just ensuring the gun is not loaded.

Safety protocols in hunting and firearms handling stress the importance of keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction, which typically means away from people. When someone is behind you, there is an increased risk that, in the case of a sudden movement or accidental discharge, the effects could result in serious injury or a fatality. Therefore, it is fundamental to avoid any carry method that could place others at risk, making this choice the most responsible option for ensuring everyone's safety in the vicinity.