Knowing how to safely handle firearms is crucial, regardless of your experience level. These 10 Commandments of Gun Safety are not mere suggestions; they're essential rules to prevent accidents and ensure responsible firearm ownership. Ignoring these commandments can have devastating consequences. This guide will delve into each commandment, providing detailed explanations and practical advice.
Always Treat Every Gun as if it Were Loaded
This is the most fundamental rule of gun safety. Never assume a firearm is unloaded. Always visually and physically check the firearm yourself before handling it. This means:
- Visually inspecting the chamber: Look directly into the chamber to confirm there is no ammunition present.
- Manually checking the chamber: Open the action (bolt, slide, or cylinder, depending on the firearm type) and physically inspect the chamber again.
- Checking the magazine: Remove the magazine and visually inspect it to confirm it’s empty.
This three-step process should be performed every single time, even if you've just unloaded the gun yourself. Habitually following this rule will significantly reduce the risk of accidental discharge.
Always Point the Gun in a Safe Direction
This commandment is crucial in preventing accidental injuries or fatalities. Never point a firearm at anything you don't intend to shoot. This includes people, animals, and even inanimate objects. Even an unloaded gun can cause serious harm if accidentally discharged. Always point your firearm downrange – toward a safe backstop like a berm or a solid wall – that can completely stop a bullet.
Understanding Safe Directions
Safe direction encompasses the entire handling process:
- During transport: Keep the firearm unloaded and in a case, pointed in a safe direction.
- During cleaning: Point the gun downrange, even while disassembled.
- During storage: Store the firearm unloaded and in a secure location inaccessible to children and unauthorized individuals.
Always Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot
This rule prevents accidental discharges that frequently happen when a finger rests on the trigger while handling a firearm. Your finger should only be placed on the trigger when you are in a position to shoot and have made the decision to do so. Keep your finger along the side of the frame until you are ready to acquire your target, and then smoothly apply pressure on the trigger. This should be the last thing you do before taking a shot.
Always Be Sure of Your Target and What is Beyond It
Before you pull the trigger, it's paramount to identify your target unequivocally. Understand where your bullet will travel and what could be in its path. Consider the possibility of a ricochet and ensure you have a safe backstop. This involves:
- Visual identification: Clearly identify your target and be absolutely certain that you intend to shoot it.
- Background assessment: Thoroughly check the area behind your target to ensure no people, animals, or other obstructions are present.
- Awareness of ricochets: Understand that bullets can ricochet off surfaces unexpectedly, changing trajectory.
Failure to comply with this commandment is the primary cause of many hunting accidents and unintentional shootings.
Never Consume Alcohol or Drugs Before or While Shooting
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time. These impairments can severely increase the risk of accidents. Never handle firearms under the influence. Maintaining sobriety and clear thinking is essential for safe firearm handling.
Always Store Guns Safely
Secure gun storage is vital, particularly if children or unauthorized individuals are present. Always store firearms unloaded, with ammunition stored separately and securely. Use trigger locks, gun safes, or other devices to prevent unauthorized access. This includes keeping ammunition locked away from firearms.
Safe Storage Practices
- Gun safes: Invest in a high-quality gun safe that meets your needs.
- Trigger locks: Use trigger locks to prevent accidental discharges.
- Cable locks: Secure multiple firearms with a cable lock.
- Ammunition storage: Store ammunition separately from firearms in a locked container.
Know Your Weapon
Before handling any firearm, familiarize yourself with its operation and safety features. This includes:
- Understanding the action: How the gun loads, unloads, functions, and cycles.
- Safety mechanisms: Knowing the location and function of all safety mechanisms.
- Ammunition compatibility: Ensuring you are using the correct type and caliber of ammunition.
Reading the owner's manual is crucial. Consider taking a firearms safety course to learn proper techniques from certified instructors.
Maintain Your Firearms
Regularly inspect and maintain your firearms to ensure they are in proper working order. This includes:
- Cleaning: Keeping your firearms clean and free of debris.
- Inspection: Regularly checking for wear and tear, damage, and malfunctions.
- Professional servicing: Having your firearms serviced by a qualified gunsmith when needed.
Keep Ammunition Dry and Properly Stored
Store your ammunition in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Avoid storing ammunition in areas prone to moisture or humidity, as this can affect its reliability and safety.
Respect Firearms and Handle Them With Caution
Treat all firearms with respect and caution. Remember, they are potentially lethal weapons that require proper handling. Always approach firearms with a responsible and cautious attitude.
These 10 commandments are not exhaustive but represent the cornerstone of gun safety. Responsible gun ownership includes continuous learning and a commitment to safe practices. Always prioritize safety, and never hesitate to seek professional guidance or training if needed.