Re: Newb Question: when do you load?
As stated above, it's situation driven.
I to will load the magazine but not necessarily the chamber. I do travel with the chamber loaded/safety on most of the time but not when climbing over or stumbling around blow downs and the like.
I have done a head over heals, looking down the pipe as the rifle slammed onto the ground, thanking God that the gun didn't fire, spill off a frosty log in the past. Play it smart all the time. Control the muzzle at all times and use your best judgement.
Rejuvenation: Sitting in the slash in sub-zero temperatures waiting for first light and hearing antlers clashing together. Oh man, life is good!