you know the magazine clip isnt in the rifle, right?
Yeah, but I would NEVER lean over the muzzle of a firearm, even if there is no magazine in the well. If I have to look at the bore of a weapon I make sure the magazine is out and the bolt is to the rear. Before I even look down the barrel I run my pinkie into the chamber to be sure. Just a safety thing.
In any case, we're probably looking at a publicity photo made with a future political campaign in mind. He was a journalist, and I'm betting he never went beyond the perimeter.
My Grandpappy taught me all firearms are loaded always!
Even if You stood there and just unloaded the weapon and know for certain there is no ammo in that weapon, it is still loaded and you still do not point it at anything you do not intend kill or destroy.
The only time I was allowed to look down a barrel was AFTER the weapon and been disassembled to a point that it was impossible for it to fire, and even then you still considered it loaded and dangerous.
Sounds foolish ehh? Well, I have been handling firearms for over 35 years and no accidents to date. My Grandpappy knew his stuff and taught me well.
You do not lean over a automatic weapon unless you are an idiot and like to tempt fate. BTW even though the mag is out I believe that weapon can still fire if a round is chambered.