CH you are absolutely correct, the first notch back on a SAA from full down is considered the safety. When carrying that revolver I prefer to have the chamber under the hammer empty as I must cock the hammer to fire it "five beans in the wheel".
If I was carrying a SAA I'd carry an empty under the hammer as well. No need to do so with my Blackhawk or Super Redhawk due to the transfer bar system, although no reason not to, either, for my needs. (Besides, if 5 .357's or .44 won't do it a 6th probably won't make much difference). My Kimber .45 and Browning 9mm are usually empty in the chamber when carried.
Coyote Hunter - NRA Patriot Life, NRA Whittington Center Life, GOA, DAD - and I VOTE!
No, I'm not a Ruger bigot - just an unabashed fan of their revolvers, M77's and #1's.
