That's a good idea to unload it before storing it. I have a Double ML Shotgun loaded for two years now. I know it's loaded of course others may not. I treat all guns as they are loaded.The cementery is full of people from unloaded guns.That was very tragic about the young man getting shot with a barrowed gun.Always keep that muzzle pointed in a safe direction if it's loaded or not.One foolish mistake is all it will take.Ruger Redhawk