When we visited, think I remember reading/hearing the weapons are functional but unloaded.
Well, functional or not, those pictures show them with fixed bayonets, unshielded. THAT is a mighty intimidating weapon in itself. I’ve also seen videos out on Youtube where the Guard has to “chastise” unruly, disrespectful tourists, and they do it loudly and with that fixed bayonet prominently featured. It’ll shut you up in a hurry. Also, and I’m not an expert here but I bet we have Freepers who are, there is a guard station nearby where I’m willing to bet they have at least some live ammo should things get really hairy, and at least one or two guys on duty to bring it if necessary. But that’s just a guess.