"Unloaded" is not limited to the chamber. Rounds in the magazine constitutes 'loaded' .
Ask most Game Officers.
Jerry,
That's a rather broad statement to make considering differing laws across the states. In Utah, you would be wrong.
76-10-502 When weapon deemed loaded.
(1) For the purpose of this chapter, any pistol, revolver, shotgun, rifle, or other weapon described
in this part shall be deemed to be loaded
when there is an unexpended cartridge, shell, or
projectile in the firing position. [emphasis mine]
In Utah, a firearm in that does not have a round in the chamber is legally defined as "unloaded". A game warden that asks to see your weapons in your vehicle will not bat an eye on a loaded magazine as long as the chamber is empty. I know from personal experience.
Thanks.
