The responsibility that comes with owning a firearm is great. It can cause serious injury to you if you’re not careful when you handle it. And it’s also extremely likely that you could cause serious damage to other people too.
The point is not many things are as destructive as a gun. That’s why everyone must be as safe as they can be when handling firearms.
So in this article, we’re going to discuss common firearm safety mistakes that people make and what you can do to avoid them. Let’s dive in!
1. Not Taking a How to Use a Gun Course
Not taking a “how to use a gun” course is a common safety mistake. Learning the basics of gun safety should be taught and reinforced in a safe and supervised environment.
Firearm safety training ensures that, as a gun owner, you have an understanding of basic firearms safety. You will learn how to safely handle, carry, store, and use firearms. You will also learn all about the different gear and equipment that you need to have for maximum safety, like shotgun recoil pads, goggles, etc.
Without a course, individuals who have access to firearms may not have the education they need. They will not be able to make informed decisions about when and how to use them.
2. Failing to Wear Ear and Eye Protection
Failing to wear ear and eye protection when handling firearms is one of the most dangerous firearm safety mistakes. Without proper ear protection, a firearm’s loud noise can lead to permanent hearing loss or tinnitus.
The particles from shooting a gun can irritate the eyes and can lead to long-term vision damage. If these safety precautions are not taken, the risk of physical injury is increased drastically.
To avoid these mistakes, you should wear proper ear and eye protection whenever you are handling firearms. You should also ensure that these safety are in good condition and fit properly. Taking these simple steps can help to ensure that everyone remains safe when you’re handling firearms.
3. Getting Distracted When Using Firearms
One of the most common and dangerous firearm safety mistakes is getting distracted when using firearms. There are many ways that this could happen. But the most frequent situations involve conversations, phones, and other devices.
To ensure that distraction never gets in the way of safe handling, always practice absolute concentration. Remain aware of any potential distractions, for example, another person walking by or a phone ringing. Place phones, tablets, radios, and other devices out of sight to avoid any temptation.
Finally, when people are using firearms in the same area, ensure that verbal or physical distractions don’t get in the way of their concentration. By following these steps, the risk of distraction-related accidents can be greatly reduced.
4. Using Incorrect Ammunition
Using the incorrect ammunition in a firearm is one of the most common and dangerous safety mistakes. If you are using a different caliber of handgun, rifle, or shotgun, always make sure you are using the correct type of ammunition for that firearm. Incorrect ammunition can cause serious damage to the gun and result in permanent injury or death.
The most important thing to remember is when switching calibers. Always read and follow all safety instructions and use the correct ammunition as prescribed. Different types of firearms require different types of ammunition.
It is also important to use only factory-made ammunition and to avoid using reloaded or modified ammunition. This could potentially cause malfunctions or irreparable damage. Always double-check before taking your first shot that you are using the right ammo.
5. Trusting the Firearm Is Unloaded
You should never trust that your firearm is unloaded. This is a very dangerous practice and one that could end in tragedy.
Always visually and physically inspect the firearm any time you handle it. Visually examine the chamber and the magazine to ensure that it is free from any ammunition. If you are unable to see the chamber through a visual inspection, use a clearing rod to ensure that it is empty.
Furthermore, always check for a live round when engaging the safety. This way, you can rest assured that the firearm is empty and safe to handle.
Avoid relying only on safety, and ALWAYS keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Engage in proper defensive firearms handling, and do not place your finger on the trigger until you intend to fire.
6. Neglecting to Store Your Firearm Properly
Having a firearm in your home can put your friends and family at risk if it is not stored with caution. So always have proper gun storage. Store your firearms unloaded in a safe and secure location that is out of reach of children.
All firearms should remain in locked containers or safes when not in use. And you should store all your ammunition separately. Place them either in a locked in a separate safe or mounted above shoulder height and in a secure location.
Additionally, it is important to store the key or combination to the safe in an area that is accessible to you but not children. These measures can help to protect your family from firearms-related accidents and fatalities.
7. Not Learning State Regulations
Not learning about your state’s firearm regulations can be a dangerous mistake. This is because laws regarding firearm transportation, carry, and storage vary from state to state. So you need to understand your state gun laws to avoid legal issues and ensure proper safety.
Make sure you research firearm-specific laws. This is because many states allow people to open or concealed carry a gun under certain circumstances, but others don’t. Understand the laws for both open and concealed carry to avoid any confusion while in a public area.
These regulations are in place for a reason. So be friendly and courteous to others from a safety standpoint and know what is acceptable in your state.
Avoid These Firearm Safety Mistakes With Our Guide
It is imperative to make sure you are staying educated and taking the proper extra steps to avoid common firearm safety mistakes. Make sure you are well-cleared on gun laws and not being careless. Keep your firearms unloaded when it needs to be, and always be aware of your surrounding with the firearm.
Educating yourself on these safety measures can mean the difference between life and death. So do your research and always practice proper gun safety protocol.
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