Gun Safety Rules (with notes)
1. Learn the characteristics of your firearm.
Read the manual. If it was not supplied, you can most likely find
one online or from the gun manufaturer.
2. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
If you are unsure - check. If you are taking a weapon from another
person, it's a good idea to only accept a weapon given to you
with the action open, then check anyway.
3. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
DO NOT point your weapon at anyone or anything you are
not prepared to destroy. This applies everywhere from combat to
your gun room.
4. Keep your finger off the trigger.
Common sense - not everyone has it, and EVERYONE suffers
momentary lapses, so check your buddy and others at the range.
5. Never rely on a mechanical safety.
If you put your trust in something you cannot positively control,
that trust will eventually be betrayed.
6. Keep gun unloaded and action open until ready to shoot.
Simple. Easy. Does not apply in combat or self defense situations.
Enough said.
7. Know your target and what's beyond it.
This means check for good guys that are behind the bad guys. It
also means check for feet under your target at the range.
8. Use only the correct ammunition for your firearm.
It will specify in your manual. 38 Special from a .357 Magnum? Most
likely OK. .357 Magnum from a .38 Special? Most definitely NOT OK!
9. Know what to do in the event of a misfire.
It's simple: Rule #3, Rule #4, wait 2 full minutes, then clear and
properly dispose of the round. If you find that you only have a shell
casing remaining, inspect your barrel for obstructions prior to
resuming fire.
10. Wear protective ear and eye equipment.
Duh...This is a no-brainer. Unless of course you really did want to
own a cool new guide dog, or learn sign language, or both.
11. Keep firearm free from obstructions and well maintained.
Thoroughly inspect your weapon prior to shooting EVERY TIME. No
exceptions. EVER.
12. Don't modify your firearm.
So you want your AR-15 to shoot full auto? Unless you have legal
permission to do so, you had better be mentally prepared for some
jail time. Oh, and forget about ever owning a gun again.
13. Do not mix guns with alcohol, drugs, or fatigue.
If you fall into any of the above categories, you are more
of a danger to others. Do the smart thing and leave the weapons in the
safe.
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