What is a recommended practice before firing a shot?

Identifying your target and what lies beyond it is essential for safe shooting. This practice ensures that you are aware of not only what you intend to shoot but also the potential risks of hitting something unintended after the bullet has traveled past the target. Bullets can travel significant distances, and knowing what is beyond your target can help prevent accidents or injuries to people, animals, or property in the vicinity. This awareness is a fundamental principle of firearm safety and helps uphold responsible hunting practices.

Other considerations, such as the position of the sun or checking weather conditions, while important in context, do not directly address the critical safety concern of what happens after the shot is taken. Aiming at the largest part of the animal may increase your chances of a successful shot, but it doesn't address the immediate safety concerns that come with knowing your surroundings. Therefore, identifying both the target and what lies behind it is the most responsible and safest practice before firing a shot.