Joe is misguided when he makes the statement about "unsafe to open or close a cocked hammer gun". Opening or closing a cocked hammerless gun with the safety off is an identical situation. Either situation, you have to keep the muzzle safe and keep your finger off the triggers. "Sweeping the dogs" is another red herring. I don't sweep my dogs when closing my hammer gun or any other gun. When hunting with another person or in a preserve situation with a guide or dog handler, I also prefer the open and cocked position when shooting a hammer gun. Yup, it's a pain, but it keeps my companions more comfortable. I chew my shells to keep them from falling out, no fuss, no muss. Just a little bite to make them a bit eccentric and they will not fall out. When hunting with someone else dog, I feel that you should open any gun whenever the going gets rough or you come to a resting place. It's just common courtesy.
