To a shooter there is nothing worse than reading about a shooting accident. Maybe a gun was left unattended and a youngster got a hold of it. The shooter declares “I thought the gun was unloaded” or “it just went off”.
Recently we heard (and saw the video) of an instructor that had a momentary lapse in judgment that allowed a very tiny 9 year old girl to lose control of a firearm and it cost him his life!
In all cases these are negligent shootings not accidental shootings! Someone has violated one or more of the rules of gun safety.
Maybe they were rushed or distracted; maybe they don’t even know the rules of gun safety? Believe it or not there was time gun safety was taught in schools, in Scouting and most importantly in the home. Generations of shooters were taught by their Parents, Grandparents or other family members. While that may still be the case today, it would appear we need a quick reminder.
Every shooting organization has a list of rules: the NRA has their “Big Three Rules”; other groups have four or more. I will list the NRA’s first, but will add other important considerations too.
- Always point the gun in a safe direction.
This primary rule of gun safety ensures a firearm will not harm you or others when discharged. Use common sense to dictate the safest direction. When outdoors, point the gun toward the ground or towards the target. If you are indoors, be mindful that a bullet can penetrate ceilings, floors, walls, windows, and doors.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
When holding a gun, rest your finger on the trigger guard or along the side of the gun. Do not touch the trigger until you are ready to pull it.
- Keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.
Remove the magazine, open the action and check the chamber(s) when you pick up a gun. If you do not know how to open the action or inspect the chamber(s), leave the gun alone and ask for assistance from someone who does.
Other Important Rules
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it
- Don’t rely on your gun’s safety
- Use correct ammunition
- Always wear eye and hearing protection
- Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions
- Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the firearm you are using
- Don’t use drugs, alcohol or prescription drugs when handling firearms
- If your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, handle with care
- Don’t alter or modify your gun
- Clean and lubricate you firearm regularly and correctly
- Store your gun correctly to prevent unauthorized access or use
As an experienced shooter these rules may seem like second nature to you, but that level of comfort can lead to complacency with tragic results. This is especially true if you are taking a new or young shooter to the range. They are just learning the correct way to do things, don’t assume they are aware of all the rules.
New shooters have a lot they are trying to remember: grip, trigger, sight picture, etc…They often forget to put their safety glasses or hearing protection back on before shooting. As an instructor I especially watch for muzzle control. A new shooter may be excited when they hit the target and turn to you share that success with you. In doing so they may turn the gun pointing at you, another person or in a populated direction. This is even more critical with handguns that are smaller and easier to maneuver sideways.
Stay vigilant, be prepared to step in to keep the muzzle down range and remember to follow the rules.