there are documented cases where rifles have remained loaded for many many years. Some of them were considered antiques and wall hangers only to find out that it was loaded and could have killed someone or did. I remember reading a case of a grandfather accidentally shooting his granddaughter with an unloaded old family relic that everyone always thought unloaded. For that reason, I like to have them unloaded and cleaned. Then I know in my heart and mindthey are not a threat to anyone.