Every year, countless preventable incidents involving firearms occur, underscoring the critical importance of gun safety. Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or a newcomer to firearms, adhering to the basic gun safety rules can mean the difference between safe use and tragic outcomes. When there is an “accident,” it is typically because someone failed to follow one of the gun safety rules. That, of course, means the shooting was not accidental, but rather unintentional. In other words, the shooting was negligent. Everyone who handles a gun should know the four cardinal rules of firearm safety.
Handgun Safety Rule 1: Treat All Firearms as if They Are Loaded
This mindset is foundational. Always assume that a firearm is loaded. This rule is the foundation of gun safety and acts as a constant reminder of the dangers firearms can pose. Treating every firearm as loaded instills a habitual caution in handling. Understanding that there are no accidents, only negligence, reinforces the gravity of this rule. Negligence in handling a firearm can have irreversible consequences.
A frequent error is assuming a firearm is safe to handle because it was previously checked. The only way to truly know the status of a firearm is to check that status every time you pick it up. Remove the magazine. Open the action. Lock it to the rear. Make it a routine to visually and physically check the chamber every time you pick up a firearm. Treat the gun accordingly.
Rule 2: Never Point the Firearm at Anything You’re Not Willing to Shoot
A safe direction is not a vague concept. It’s a deliberate choice. Whether you’re at the range or in your home, never point the firearm at anything you’re not willing to destroy. The direction in which a firearm is pointed should always be considered a potential path for a bullet. Choose what’s in front of your muzzle carefully.
You should be constantly aware of your surroundings. Always maintain awareness of where the muzzle is pointing, practicing constant situational awareness even when you’re sure the gun is unloaded. Establish safe zones in your environments where the firearm can be directed.
Rule 3: Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until You Have Made the Decision to Shoot
Trigger discipline is a key component of responsible gun ownership. This rule prevents unintentional discharges by ensuring the trigger is only engaged when you’re ready to shoot. Resting the finger on the trigger while handling or moving with the firearm is a common mistake for those new to firearms. Maintaining trigger-finger discipline is imperative to safety and shooting success.
Guns do not simply “go off.” They are made to fire. A very specific sequence of actions must take place, and that sequence ends with the operation of the trigger. Very rarely will a gun fire if the trigger is not pulled. Develop the habit of keeping your finger along the frame or slide of the firearm until you are actually ready to fire. This should be muscle memory.
Rule 4: Know Your Target and Understand What Is Beyond It
Handling guns is pointing guns. This requires the highest concentration level because holding is synonymous with pointing. Because you don’t want to shoot or destroy anything, that gun should always point at and judiciously focus upon previously identified low-value targets for as long as it is unholstered or uncased.
When discharging a firearm, you must be aware not only of the target but also of what lies beyond it. Bullets can pass through targets and walls, posing risks to unintended targets. Before shooting, identify a safe backdrop. In a defensive situation, be mindful of bystanders and other potential risks in the line of fire.
Whenever you see firearms mishaps, at least one safety rule has been violated. Knowing your target, what’s around and beyond it, and the unspoken rule, “Be able to hit your target,” are likely culprits. Knowing your target and understanding what is beyond it ensures that every shot fired is intentional and well-considered.
Additional Firearm Safety Tips
In order to have a negligent discharge with injury, you will need to break two or more of these rules at the same time. Beyond the fundamental rules, responsible firearm ownership involves additional considerations. Proper gun storage, educating others about firearm safety, regular firearms maintenance and ongoing training all play roles in promoting a culture of safety. These rules, no matter how they are articulated, share the same objective: to prevent accidents and promote responsible gun ownership. Let these rules guide you, ensuring your passion for firearms is matched by your commitment to safety and responsibility.
This article is a compilation of previous blog posts authored by Kevin Michalowski and Alan Korwin
