All RCMP members I know who are smart enough to carry a shot gun in their overhead rack clear the firearm, then pull the trigger on an empty chamber in a safe direction. The firearm is then loaded but not racked to chamber a round. The idea is that when things go sideways, you don't want to be fumbling for that little slide release or yanking on the pump wondering why it won't cycle.
I bet you don't own anything striker fired like a glock or a CZ 858 if you're so paranoid about touching a trigger on a verified clear firearm. As far as I know those firearms both require you to pull the trigger to release tension before you can field strip them.
I've got a cheap wingmaster 870 I got on one of these ex-brinks deals. That little sucker goes with me everywhere, but for more casual hiking it's a bit cumbersome with a full stock and 18.5" barrel. I've been looking at those armed folders myself, but a follow up shot with only an extractor and gosh knows where I'll have the other shells stored has made me hesitate.
Hmmm
RCMP do it so it must be right eh?.....wow.
If when "things go sideways" one is fumbing for the slide release and or tuggin' on the pump "wonderin" why it won't release......they aren't proficient with their weapon and arent up for the threat that needs dealin' with.
Know your weapon, practice, develop skill and familiarity....no tuggin', fumblin', wonderin'....just present it and go to work.
Lastly it has yet to be brought up why the slide release is there in the 1st place and why it should be used what it's for.
It locks the bolt closed so the pump handle/bolt can't/don't open till they're supposed to.
If you pack yer gun around with the trigger pulled on a empty chamber the pump/bolt can and will get pushed open.....#### can now enter the chamber/barrel as well as it can easily be manipulated far enough back to allow a rd to move from the mag to the carrier...or fall out...or get cockeyed in the carrier/action.
Chunks of gun case, sleeping bag, pack contents, dirt, ....whatever
Now you'll def be doin' the tuggin', fumblin', wonderin' thing..... and if you haven't practiced malfunction/clearance/FTF drills....will be screwed if yer deployin' the gun on a threat.
Lets not forget the original scenario posted either....Re: all the examples thrown back about dry frin', weapon strippin', proving safe etc.
We were talking about carrying/handling a loaded weapon in the field in a state of readiness for deployment to threats.......and that is what is being referred to.
Dry firin', proving, taking down a weapon and pulling the trigger..... IS intentionally pulling the trigger with the expectation of the hammer falling and done observing the concept of not pointing the muzzle at something you arent willing to destroy.
Deployin' your gun from your sleeping bag, off of your back while fishing with others, from your cruiser etc AIN'T THAT.