I leave the rifles/shotguns in my house unchambered, safety off (cruiser ready in cop speak). But my EDC? Its locked and loaded. If I ever need it? I need it now, not in two seconds. If I have time to chamber a round, I have time to run. But I won't have time to do either as the BG always has the inititive. If your GF is concerned about safety sell her on the Glock or a DA revolver. They won't go bang without you pulling the trigger.