I agree with George . I carry the gun with cartridges in the barrels and hammers not cocked. Usually on a strap if its thick. and It usually is where I mostly hunt. A fall with a loaded and cocked gun is a way to shoot your dog or someone else. Open and loaded breeches are an option but bring a lot of ammo as you will be leaving a trail like Goldilocks. If you have time to close the breech you have time to cock a hammer especially over a dog.