What Are the Cardinal Rules of Gun Safety?
Did you know that the 2nd Amendment grants you the right to own firearms? While the debate on whether this is a right or not continues to rage in America, there are still several rules and gun safety tips when it comes to gun ownership.
In fact, there are several gun safety rules that every gun owner should be aware of. These rules go beyond the proper use and handling of a gun. Before you continue reading, answer this question: What are the cardinal rules of gun safety?
If you don’t know, you are reading the right article. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about gun safety.
Treat Every Firearm as if it’s Loaded
In other words, when owning a gun, you should never assume to be unloaded. Before handling any firearm, the user should always check the chamber to ensure it is not loaded. Even if it appears to be unloaded, it is important to take extra precautions to ensure it is unloaded before any further steps are taken.
It is also important to be aware of your target and what is beyond the target in case of a missed shot or a ricochet. Every gun should be handled with respect and treated like it is loaded, even if it isn’t.
Always Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction
This means keeping the barrel of your gun pointed away from yourself and those around you. No matter what, always keep in mind that a bullet would go in the direction the muzzle is pointing if the trigger were pulled by mistake.
It is of the utmost importance to never point a gun at another person, even if you think it’s unloaded or the safety is on. This rule applies even if you are cleaning, cleaning, carrying, installing primers for reloading, or storing your firearm. Always make sure that the muzzle is pointing in a safe direction because even the most minor accidents can have major consequences.
Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until You’re Ready to Shoot
Keeping your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot is an essential part of responsible gun ownership. Safety and discipline are paramount principles to abide by when handling and using firearms.
Putting your finger on the trigger before you are ready to fire a shot can result in an unintended – or unwanted – discharge of the weapon, resulting in serious injury or death.
Wear Appropriate Eye and Ear Protection
Eye and ear protection should always be worn while shooting firearms due to the loud sounds and sparks that occur during a shot. As well as the potential of debris or any other material launching back towards the shooter.
Eye protection can help prevent foreign material from entering the eyes, and ear protection helps to prevent any hearing damage that loud noises may cause.
A Guide on Cardinal Rules of Gun Safety
Following the cardinal rules of gun safety is key to reducing the possibility of needless tragedy. Always assume all guns are loaded, handle and store them responsibly, and use caution when pointing them.
Know the statute of limitations and observe best practices to maintain safety. By committing to proper gun safety, we can all do our part to stay safe.
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