Definitely a grey area. SC Code of Laws doesn't specifically define a "loaded" firearm, however in WA loaded is defined as a round in the chamber or a loaded magazine locked into the magazine well, a round in the cylinder (revolvers), a shell in the tube (shotguns), or a ball in the barrel and a cap or primer in place (muzzleloader).
Either way I wouldn't risk doing anything illegal based on any state's laws. Even if you aren't doing anything illegal, a lot of LEO's out there may have different interpretations of the law.
As far as
my definition of loaded firearm, well it depends on who is carrying it and how well I know them.
