As a firearm owner, there is nothing I can stress more than safety. Unfortunately, I come across far too many gun owners who do not know or adhere to the Fundamental Rules of Firearm Safety. Those of you who have been shooting for a while will recognize these, but I've put my own spin on them and re-ordered them a bit. If you are new to the sport of shooting or are planning to join the community of shooters and gun carriers, it is imperative that these rules become ingrained in your head. You should be able to recite them word for word, and more importantly, should live by them daily. Complacency kills.
- Every gun is always loaded.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
- Never point a gun at anything you do not intend to destroy.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond.
Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire. Contrary to popular belief, guns do not fire on their own. They don't just "go off". Your finger should never be on the trigger except and unless you intend to discharge the gun. Carrying it, cleaning it, taking out/putting in your holster or case, handing to a friend or receiving from a friend, your finger is never anywhere near the trigger.
Never point a gun at anything you do not intend to destroy. Simple. Don't wave it around. Don't point it at anyone or anything that you are not ok with completely and utterly destroying. This rule is broken more than any of the others, at ranges, shooting clubs, and hunting. You must always be cognizant and aware of where the muzzle of your gun is pointing, and ensure that it is always in a safe direction.
Be sure of your target and what is beyond. You are ready to fire your gun, but are you sure of what you are shooting at? Have you confirmed the identity of your target? Is there anything in line with your target that could potentially be hit? Anything behind your target? This evaluation must occur EVERY SINGLE TIME before you pull the trigger.
Learn these 4 rules. Recite them and practice them. Understand their meaning and application. Be safe.