Owning a handgun comes with serious responsibility. Whether you are a first-time pistol owner or an experienced shooter, understanding and practicing basic firearm safety rules is crucial for keeping yourself and others safe.
8 Essential Firearm Safety Rules Every Owner Should Follow
There are eight basic firearm safety rules for handgun owners to understand and practice at all times:
1. Store Your Handgun Safely in a Pistol Safe to Prevent Unauthorized Access
When you are not using your firearm, it becomes your duty to store it securely. When you leave your handgun unattended, it is necessary for you to secure it in such a way that unauthorized users can’t access your weapon. Always keep your handgun in a locked container like a pistol safe or Lock Box, which is available numerously on the market. Make sure the firearm is unloaded and, for extra security, use a safety device like a trigger lock or cable lock. Storing your firearm safely prevents accidents, particularly when there are children or unauthorized individuals in your home. Also, remember to keep your ammunition stored separately from the handgun for added security.
2. Treat Every Handgun as if It is Loaded
This rule is the basic principle of firearm safety, helping you stay alert and avoid accidents. Even if you think your handgun is unloaded, always assume it is loaded. Before handling any firearm, always double-check to ensure that it is not loaded. If you are ever unsure about it, don’t take any risk, leave the firearm unattended and seek assistance from someone more experienced. Treating every handgun as if it is loaded keeps you on alert and prevents accidental discharges.
3. Point Your Handgun in the Safest Direction
The direction in which you point your handgun is one of the most important safety rules. Always keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction, particularly in a direction where an accidental discharge won’t harm anyone or cause any damage. This means never pointing a firearm at yourself, others, or anything you don’t intend to shoot or harm. A safe direction is generally toward the ground or a secure target area, so make it your habit to always be aware of where the muzzle of your handgun is pointing.
4. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger
Don’t place your finger on the trigger or inside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot. While it might feel natural to rest your finger on the trigger, doing so can be dangerous. If you trip, fall, or are surprised by sudden unusual sounds, your finger could tighten without thinking, causing an accidental discharge. Always remember that the trigger is for firing, and your hand is for holding the handgun safely. Keeping your finger off the trigger is one of the easiest ways to prevent an accident.
5. Know Your Target, Surroundings, and Beyond
Before pulling the trigger, make sure you know exactly what you are shooting at, what is around it, and what is beyond. Bullets can easily travel beyond your target or miss entirely, so you need to be aware of everything in your view. If you’re unsure about your target, whether it is moving or hard to see and you are in doubt whether you will be able to shoot or not, DON’T SHOOT! Always confirm your target and surroundings to ensure that neither a person nor anything else is at risk.
6. Check the Barrel of Your Handgun for Blockages
Before loading your pistol, make sure the chamber of the pistol is empty and there is no ammunition in the magazine. Always check that the barrel is clear of any blockages. Even small things like dirt, oil, or debris can cause the handgun to malfunction and possibly burst when fired, leading to injury. Make it your habit to clean the barrel regularly and check for blockage before shooting. If the shot feels weak or doesn’t sound right, stop immediately and check for blockages.
Also, never use incorrect ammunition. Using a smaller cartridge by mistake can cause a blockage and damage your handgun. Always double-check the ammunition to avoid accidents.
7. Know How to Properly Operate Your Handgun
Every firearm operates differently, so it’s necessary to learn how your specific firearm works. Understand how it works mechanically, how to load and unload it, and how to clear any potential malfunctions if it had. If you are not 100% familiar with your handgun’s operation, ask your firearms dealer for help or consult the manufacturer. If you know how to handle your pistol, then don’t assume that you know how to handle every other firearm. As every model works differently. Proper knowledge of your firearm ensures that you’re in control and can safely handle your weapon in any situation.
8. Don’t Modify or Change Your Handgun, and Get It Serviced Regularly
Firearms are carefully designed by experts to work properly in their original form. Making any changes or modifications to your handgun can make it unsafe and may even void the warranty of your weapon. If you modify any part of the handgun, then the company and manufacturers are not responsible for any mishappening. Never alter the trigger, safety features, or any part of the handgun, and don’t let unqualified people repair or modify it. Making these changes could damage your handgun, and in some cases, it could be dangerous for you or the people around you.
Your gun is a mechanical tool that wears down over time, so it needs regular inspection and servicing. Always check with the manufacturer of your firearm and keep yourself updated for recommended maintenance and care.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY MEASURES
The eight basic safety rules for handguns are essential, but there are some additional safety points you should always keep in mind:
- Never handle your handgun when you are feeling emotional, whether you are angry, upset, or depressed. Your judgment can be influenced and that could be dangerous while you are handling a pistol.
- Firing a handgun into the air is both unsafe and often illegal, even during celebrations like the Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve. Bullets shot into the sky can fall back to the ground with enough force to cause serious injury or even death.
- Never shoot at water, flat ground, or hard surfaces. Bullets can bounce off these areas and may hit something or someone by mistake.
- Always double-check that your firearm is unloaded before giving it to someone. Also, make sure the action is open and the magazine is removed when passing or receiving the gun.
- Be careful that handguns and alcohol or drugs should never mix. Never handle a firearm if you are under the influence of alcohol or any substance that affects your thinking or physical control. This also includes prescription medications that make you drowsy or include a warning to not operate machinery while taking this drug.
- The loud noise of gunshots can damage your hearing, and the debris or hot gases from firing a handgun can cause eye injuries. Always wear ear protection and eye protection when shooting.
The eight basic safety rules are essential, but there are additional precautions to keep in mind:
CONCLUSION
Following these handgun safety rules is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and anyone nearby. By treating every handgun as if it is loaded, being aware of your surroundings, and storing your firearms safely, you can enjoy responsible handgun ownership. Remember, safety should always be your top priority no matter where you are or what you are doing.
