The Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety

10 Commandments of Gun Safety

As a hunter education instructor it is my job to ensure that the next generation of hunters know how to safely handle a firearm. However, based on my first-hand experience in the classroom, I believe that everyone can benefit from reviewing and following the ten basic firearm safety principles (even seasoned hunters). We have all seen the headlines; “Hunter injured in accidental shooting” or “Man dies from hunting accident”. Those headlines and articles are often misleading. These were not accidents, these were avoidable incidents. The Oxford Dictionary defines “accident” as an event that happens by chance or that is without apparent or deliberate cause. Nearly every hunting incident that involves a firearm can be attributed to someone not following one or more of the Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety. Not following these ten basic safety principles is not an accident, it’s careless. The next time you are in the woods or at the range, remember these Ten Commandments; it could save your life or someone else’s.

Below are the Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety which are taught in every state during their Hunter Education Classes. To learn more about hunter education classes in your state visit www.hunter-ed.com.

Only aim where you want to shoot

1. Watch that muzzle!
ALWAYS keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

2. Treat EVERY firearm as if it were loaded.
The firearm might be loaded, even if you do not think so.

Assume every gun is loaded

3. Be sure of the target, what is in front, above, to the sides and beyond.
Know the identifying features of the game you hunt. Make sure you have an adequate backstop – don’t shoot at a flat, hard surface or water.

4. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
This is the best way to prevent an unplanned discharge.

5. Check your barrel and ammunition.
Make sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions, and carry only the proper ammunition for your firearm.

6. Unload firearms when not in use.
Leave actions open, and carry firearms in cases and unloaded to and from the shooting area.

7. Point a firearm only at something you intend to shoot.
Avoid all horseplay with a gun.

Never Run or jump with a loaded gun

8. DON’T run, jump or climb with a loaded firearm.
Unload a firearm before you climb a fence or tree, or jump a ditch. Pull a firearm toward you by the butt, not the muzzle

9. Store firearms and ammunition separately and securely.
Store each in secured locations beyond the reach of children and careless adults.

10. Avoid alcoholic beverages before and during shooting.
Also avoid mind – or behavior – altering prescription medicines or drugs.

Guest Blogger Shawn McCardell

fin-field-logo


About Fin & Field

Fin & Field is changing the way sportsmen find, compare, book and share their fishing and hunting adventures. We’ve consolidated the hunting and fishing industry into a powerful marketplace that connects sportsmen and operators (charter boats, fishing guides, hunting guides, lodges, marinas, outfitters, outdoor brands, and more). We’re using technology to drive more meaningful, fun, and efficient communication that’s making it easier for sportsmen to get the information they need to do what they love.

Book your next adventure at www.finandfield.com.

Written By
More from Staff Writer
10 Hunting Tips for Beginners
Last week we published 10 Fishing Tips for Beginners, check it out...
Read More
0 replies on “The Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety”