Firearm Safety 101

Introducing Jack

Today we have our first guest post written by my brother Jack (I know moving up in the world!).  To find out a little more about him check out his Facebook.  Jack is another outdoor enthusiast, but has a special like for firearms and using them safely.  Therefore, for his first post Jack will talk about gun safety.

Here is Jack and BeeGee at Palmetto State Park

Firearm Safety 101

Shooting firearms can be some of the most fun anyone can have.  Perhaps you enjoy recreational shooting or maybe you carry one for personal protection from animals while on a camping trip or from bad people while you sleep or both.  Whatever the reason for owning a firearm, you must always remember that safety comes first.  Safety will prevent accidents and can save lives and allow everyone to have a good time and feel safe

The following rules are for everyone to follow.  If you handle firearms at all, make sure you read and understand these rules before using a firearm. Firearm safety depends on you knowing these rules and following through with the rules.  By following the rules, it will help prevent gun accidents.

The 10 Commandments of Firearm Safety

#1 always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.  With the muzzle being the dangerous end that bullets come out of.  Treat every gun as if it were loaded at all times. Never point the muzzle or front of the firearm at anything you are not ready to shoot.

The Muzzle of a Rifle: Keep it Pointed in a Safe Direction

#2 firearms should be unloaded when not in use. Ammunition should be unloaded from the chamber and the magazine for storage. Never carry a loaded gun in a case or holster not being used.

#3 don’t completely rely on your gun's safety. You might think your safety is on when it is not and have an accidental discharge. This also means never putting your finger on the trigger until you are ready to shoot.  Remember treat every gun as though it could fire at all times.

Safety on a Pistol

#4 be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Don’t shoot through a paper target into your neighbor’s house!  Once you shoot a bullet there is no calling it back.  be sure that your round will not injure someone or hit something behind your target

#5 use the correct ammunition. It is important that you use the correct ammo for your firearm.  You can determine the correct ammo by reading owner’s manual.  In addition, the caliber/type of ammo will be stamped on the barrel of your firearm.

The Caliber of Ammunition Stamped on a pistol 

#6 if your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, handle the firearm with extreme care. Wait at least 30 seconds to make sure the round will not delay fire.  Unload the firearm and safely dispose of ammo and remember commandment #1.

A Pistol After a Catastrophic Failure: Handle a Pistol With Care After a Misfire

#7 always wear eye and ear protection when shooting. Firearms are very loud and can damage your hearing.  In addition, firearms create a lot of flying debris when fired. So be sure to wear shooting glasses and muffs when shooting, always.

Safety Equipment: Ear Muffs and Safety Glasses

#8 be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before shooting. Before loading your firearm, be sure to check the chamber and inside the barrel, which is also called the bore.  This is to make sure there are no obstructions to prevent catastrophic failure.  An example would be the barrel exploding.

The Chamber of a Rifle: Make Sure it is Clear of Obstruction

#9 do not alter or modify your gun.  In addition, always service your firearm regularly. Any alterations to your firearm could jeopardize the safety of yourself and others.  Furthermore, only have your firearm checked by a qualified gunsmith.

#10 learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of your firearm. Not all firearms work the same way or have the same parts. Be sure to learn how to handle the firearm and are comfortable with it before use.  This includes not using a firearm you cannot control.

So if you have any special rules you follow or good advice for firearm safety, please let us know.  

Jack Morgan