Gun Safety Rules You Might Be Overlooking

The basic gun safety rules every cowboy action shooting member should observe include:

• Always assume that a gun is loaded
• Always point the gun in safe direction
• Keep your finger off the trigger unless you’re ready to fire
• Identify what you are shooting and what may be behind it

These rules are usually posted in shooting ranges and gun stores for a reason – to keep you and your family safe. However, common sense dictates that there is more to gun safety than these four basic rules. Below are more rules of gun safety that you should not overlook.

 

Know your firearm

 

Before firing your first shot, be sure you understand the rules of handling your firearm. Do not assume that a gun is just a point and shoot thing. Take the time to read the instruction manual. If you don’t have one, don’t operate the gun until the manufacturer sends you a manual.

Understand how the basic parts of your gun work. Even if you think you know a lot about guns, you need to spend some time getting familiar with your new firearm. Just because your new gun looks just like the guns in your collection, it doesn’t mean that they will operate in the same manner.

Learn how load and unload ammo from your gun. Understand its different parts and how they function. Develop the habit of using the gun’s safety mechanism, but don’t overly depend on it. Like any mechanical device, it is not fail-proof. Your best safety device is your brain and common sense.

 

Be sure your gun is cleaned, maintained, and safe to use

 

Like any mechanical device, guns need upkeep and proper storage to give you their best performance. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also ensure its safe operation. If you have any doubt about your gun’s safety and firing capability, have it checked out by a licensed gunsmith.

Take note of signs in a gun that indicate if they are safe to use.

• Are there signs of damage?
• Is rust forming?
• Was the gun unused for many years?
• How old is the gun? Modern ammo shouldn’t be used with 19^th century revolvers.

 

Load only the ammunition specified for your gun

 

Every gun comes with its specific cartridge size or caliber. Only the prescribed ammo can be used safely for that particular gun. Loading your gun with the wrong ammo is inviting disaster that can damage the firearm and maim or even kill you.

As a precaution, most gun manufacturers stamp the specific caliber on the barrel of the gun. The correct cartridge size is also listed in the gun owner’s manual. You can sometimes find the ammo information imprinted on the cartridge head and printed on the cartridge’s box.

 

Gun safety rules include eye and ear protection

 

When a gun is fired, it discharges hot gas and debris that can damage your eyes. The loud blasting sound of gunfire can likewise injure your ears and cause hearing problems later on. For these reasons, wearing safety glasses and earplugs as protection are required every time you use your gun on the field or in the shooting range.

 

Never use a gun when under the influence of drugs or alcohol

 

Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and capability to handle your firearm safely. What if you don’t drink or take drugs, you ask? If you are taking “legal” drugs like prescription or over-the-counter medications, there is a possibility of experiencing side effects, some of which can affect your mind and body. It’s best to know the potential side effects that come with any medication you are taking, especially if you will be handling firearms.

 

 

Keep your guns in a secure place    

 

Firearms shouldn’t be within easy reach of just about anybody, most especially an intruder in your home. A secure gun storage is a place accessible only to you and authorized members of your household. It should provide fast and easy retrieval of your weapon should it be needed.

 

Gun safety rules are for every gun owner

 

Recreational-sport shooting activities like cowboy action shooting have their own set of gun safety rules to be observed during shooting competitions. It is the responsibility of every member, regardless of age or skill level, to see to it that these rules are observed.