Is an uncocked semi-automatic with ammo in the clip considered “loaded”?
<p>A semi-automatic must be racked, to put a round in the firing chamber, before it can be fired.</p>

<p>Is there a legal definition of “loaded” that considers option 2 of the following states of loadedness as not being “loaded”?</p>

<ol>
<li>Empty</li>
<li>Ammo in the clip, but not in the chamber (pulling the trigger would do nothing)</li>
<li>A round in the chamber, safety on</li>
<li>Ready to fire (safety off)</li>
</ol>

<p>Obviously option 2 is not relevant to a revolver, which only requires a trigger pull to bring the next round in front of the firing pin.</p>

<p>It depends on your jurisdiction.  Check the applicable laws; there's probably a section named something like "definitions" that gives the meaning of terms such as "loaded".  For example, from <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=9.41.010" rel="nofollow noreferrer">RCW 9.41.010</a> (the "Terms defined" section of the "Firearms and Dangerous Weapons" chapter of the Washington State laws):</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>(17) "Loaded" means:</p>
  
  <p>(a) There is a cartridge in the chamber of the firearm;</p>
  
  <p>(b) Cartridges are in a clip that is locked in place in the firearm;</p>
  
  <p>(c) There is a cartridge in the cylinder of the firearm, if the firearm is a revolver;</p>
  
  <p>(d) There is a cartridge in the tube or magazine that is inserted in the action; or</p>
  
  <p>(e) There is a ball in the barrel and the firearm is capped or primed if the firearm is a muzzle loader.</p>
</blockquote>

<p>So in Washington State, any of your examples 2-4 would be considered "loaded" for the purposes of firearms-related crimes.</p>

firearms