What do the colors on a cross-bolt safety indicate?

The colors on a cross-bolt safety are used to provide a clear visual indicator of its status, helping to ensure safe handling and operation of a firearm. In this context, red typically indicates that the safety is OFF, meaning the firearm is ready to fire, while black signifies that the safety is ON, meaning the firearm cannot be discharged. This color coding is crucial because it allows the user to quickly and easily determine whether the firearm is in a safe or ready-to-fire condition without needing to check other mechanisms or indicators.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of always checking the safety status before handling or operating a firearm to prevent accidental discharges. Being familiar with these indicators can significantly enhance safety and enable responsible firearm use.