During what circumstances is a shotgun considered loaded?

A shotgun is considered loaded when there is any shell present in the chamber, or when the magazine contains shells. This means that even if the chamber has one shell, the shotgun is ready to fire. The presence of shells in the magazine also indicates that the shotgun can be made ready to fire quickly.

Therefore, all the listed conditions contribute to the shotgun being classified as loaded. It is vital for safety that hunters and shooters understand that having a shell in the chamber poses a significant risk of accidental discharge, and simply having a full magazine suggests that the firearm is capable of being fired without further loading. Recognizing these states is essential for responsible firearm handling and ensuring safety during hunting and shooting activities.