Promise no spam! Responsible gun ownership means learning and practicing behaviors that will help prevent needless injury, death, and theft. RULE FOUR: Know your target and what is beyond it. Once a bullet exits the barrel of a gun, it cannot be recalled; whatever damage it inflicts cannot be undone. If you’ve ever taken any sort of firearms training, you’ve probably heard the four rules of gun safety. Bullets will continue their flight path if they miss or ricochet off their intended target. However, as a concealed carry instructor, I learned that even in my rural area many people had never learned to safely (or otherwise) handle a gun. The 4 Rules of Gun Safety (Plus I added a 5th Rule) These are the rules. 1. Just because the firearm might be cleared/unloaded (meaning there is no ammunition in the gun) doesn't mean you can treat it like a toy. While most of you may know these rules I want to educate the newcomers, the apprehensive, the curious, and those that need a good reminder about the rules for firearm safety. Even if you are home and are... 2. Your gun should be cleaned every time that it is used. Bullets discharged toward the sky will return to the ground and possess the potential to cause serious injuries or fatality. 3. In the more likely case of a negligent discharge caused by failure to observe all 4 Rules of Gun Safety, persistent muzzle discipline will be the best mechanism to avoid injury, fatality or lawsuit. RULE TWO: Never point the firearm at anything you are NOT willing to destroy. You may agree with me when I say: Gun safety is the first and foremost thing to remember while you're handling the gun. Regardless, no safety mechanism can prevent negligent discharge due to carelessness or through dangerous handling of a firearm. spmp.4-1 safety rules 1. treat every weapon as if it were loaded 2. never point a weapon at anything you do not intend to shoot 3. keep finger straight and off the trigger until you are ready to fire 4. keep weapon on safe until you intend to fire. 4. Firearm Safety: 4 Rules That Every Shooter Should Follow Like any other tool, a gun is only as safe, or unsafe, as the person doing the handling, which is why every shooter should follow these four firearm safety rules developed by Col. Jeff Cooper. Always keep your finger pressed against the frame and clear of the trigger guard until your target is visible in your sights. Whether targets are made of paper or steel plates, it is important to understand what is being shot at and the effect it will have upon the bullets that strike it. Educating your child on what to do if they come across a gun should be just as important as teaching them what do in case of a fire or an emergency. You should never handle a gun carelessly and assume that the gun won’t fire just because the “safety is on.” Never touch the trigger on a firearm until you actually intend to shoot. Know Your Target (And What is Behind It). The absence of ammo shouldn't give you permission to engage in unsafe practices with your gun. Concealed Carry for Women, Self-Reliant Tips, and Style Blog, Get your own FREE printable of the 4 Rules of Gun Safety graphic at the. 4 Firearms Safety Rules 1. The firearm safety rules. Bullets can ricochet off hard surfaces (like asphalt) or bounce off the surface of calm water (like a skipping stone) so it is vital to consider one’s targets, backstop, and barriers. The muzzle is the front of the gun where the... 3. With an unfamiliar weapons system, a person might feel unsafe handling a firearm. II. Know Your Target (and Whatever is Behind It), You never shoot at a sound, you never shoot at a rustling noise, you never shoot at a silhouette or shadow or something behind a screen.[1]. Never point the gun at anything you are not willing to destroy. You never want to point the gun at something your aren't willing to destroy and/or potentially kill. 4 Rules of Gun Safety: All You Need to Know (2020) Bryan Hill / February 02 2021. Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to … Be relentlessly aware of your muzzle ensuring it is always pointed in the relative safest direction. Let’s take a look at the 4 rules of gun safety and how you can ensure a fun, safe shooting experience. A gun brought out of prolonged storage should also be cleaned before shooting. 4 Golden rules of gun safety Rule 1: Gun should be unloaded if it is not in use Always keep your gun unloaded if it is not actually in use which is the first rule you should maintain. RULE ONE: Treat all firearms as if they are always loaded. All Guns Are Always Loaded. 4 Cardinal Rules of Gun Safety Rule Number 1: Treat the Gun as if it is Always Loaded Of the 4 cardinal rules of gun safety, this one ranks above all others. Any logical exception to the first rule of gun safety should only be considered once basic safety has been positively ensured. Never place your body or limbs in front of a firearm’s muzzle. Your finger should be placed above the trigger alongside the barrel until you have your target in your sights and the have made the decision that you are going to shoot your firearm. Firearms do not discharge on their own. Never point the gun at anything you do not want to destroy. It really wasn't until the husband was serious about getting his own firearm and then we took a class that it really was emphasized. Join our mailing list for personal safety tips, new releases, our monthly newsletter, and more. Please note the quotes by Jeff Cooper: Creator of the “Modern Technique” of handgun marksmanship. Read More. You MUST abide by these at ALL TIMES to avoid accidents that may cause damage to property, injury or DEATH. Observe trigger discipline when placing and removing firearms from storage. The 4 Rules of Gun Safety - Free download as Word Doc (.doc), PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. It's easy to say that you know the rules but it's also important to be reminded and to continually practice gun safety. The permanent damage caused by a bullet fired from a gun should... 3. Being a responsible gun owner means you must always be handling your firearm safely at all times. To repeat the 4 rules of gun safety once again, they are: ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction If a firearm discharges, it will be because a person loaded it, chambered it, and manipulated its trigger. Your target is where you are pointing your weapon and what you plan to shoot when the trigger is finally pulled. Treat every single gun as if … Printable PDF. When all else fails, remember to follow the 4 Rules of Gun Safety and seek a manual. While the 4 Rules of Gun Safety are far from the end-all-be-all of firearm safety, they represent the fundamental basis for the correct handling of firearms, especially when assessing unfamiliar or unexpected situations whenever firearms are present. Modern firearms employ numerous redundant safety mechanisms that make them highly resistant to accidental discharge caused by drops and mechanical failures. The 4 Rules of Gun Safety are simple and easy to remember, but a person also requires an observant and engaged mindset to consistently exercise these rules under stress and unfamiliar situations. It is important to take a closer at the 4 Rules of Gun Safety to present a nuanced examination to anyone who is new to shooting sports, who has just purchased their first firearm, who is considering purchasing their first firearm, or to anyone who is planning their first trip to the range. Sexy 4 Rules of Gun Safety - YouTube. These rules must be applied every single time a firearm, and really, any weapon (even less-lethal devices) are being handled. Here are The Four Rules of Gun Safety! Strict observation of the rules of gun safety still requires nuance and common sense to safely and effectively handle firearms. The gun's action should be open during the cleaning process. These programs aren't about promoting firearms but instead are available to help kids understand what to do if they find a gun and to help parents start the conversation with their children. Always Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction. You should load your gun or firearm only when you are using it. The 4 Rules of Gun Safety Four Rules of Gun Safety, Firearm Safety for Adults and Children, The rules of safe gun handling RULE ONE: Treat all firearms as if they were loaded. Take an introductory gun owners course to get trained in the basic 4 rules of gun safety by a certified instructor . 4. There are no second chances with a gun and the rules for safe gun handling must always be followed to avoid accidents. Whenever firearms are passed from one person to another, the person receiving the firearm must assume the firearm is loaded until they have personally inspected and confirmed that it is unloaded. Gun Safety Source was created to connect new sport shooters and gun owners to information about firearms safety, maintenance, and training. We also share information that advertises gear that we use, but we only review items, training, and firearms we personally own at Gun Safety Source.com. On the continuum of handling firearms safely while shooting and not shooting, one’s trigger finger should only enter the trigger guard when a target is visible in the sights. Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. By taking a closer look at the 4 Rules of Gun Safety, we hope to reinforce their importance while ingraining an alert and observant mindset whenever and wherever firearms are present. When you look a little deeper, there is a lot more. I added one that I believe is overlooked for those of you that train drawing from the holster. 2. The operator of a firearm is responsible for every round that exits the muzzle; always exercise awareness and precision when directing and discharging a firearm. If you do not understand how to handle and check a weapon’s status, Always direct the muzzle of a firearm in a safe direction. Children will be naturally curious about firearms and may be tempted to "play" with them as they do in their video games or toys so starting the conversation early and often will give them the knowledge they need  so they know what to do. Rule 2: Never point your gun at anything that you are not willing to destroy. Register here for one of our high quality concealed carry classes! 1. The operator of a firearm has a personal and legal responsibility to protect bystanders by knowing who and what their firearm is being directed at. You should never blindly believe that a gun is unloaded or hold it as though it is. The most I remember was that the range officers kept urging us to always point your gun down range. Always Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction. If someone does not know how to handle a weapon, they should not take or be given it without receiving a practical demonstration on safe handling and operation. The National Rifle Association created The Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program back in 1988 as a gun accident prevention method to teach kids four easy & simple rules to follow if they ever come across a gun. Your email address will not be published. Here are four rules of gun safety. Guns are dangerous and since you’ve already bought one let’s start with the 4 basic rules of firearm safety. The key is to treat every situation involving firearms as a real-life scenario with real consequences. Treat all firearms as if they are loaded. The permanent damage caused by a bullet fired from a gun should be considered at all times when (1) handling any firearm and when placing firearms (2) upon a table, (3) the ground, (4) or into storage. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Your Target is in Your Sights, When you’re not on target, your finger is straight.[1]. CDC.gov reports that in 2017, 486 people lost their lives and 20,488 people were injured. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. They will keep you safe until you decide what to do with your unexpected rifle or pistol. I have talked about my apprehension and anxiety when it came to shooting for the first few times and a lot of that had to with not being comfortable handling a firearm. 4. https://www.mcarbo.com/ Welcome New Gun Owners! The only unloaded weapon is the one you have personally unloaded and still retain in your hand.[1]. Never pass a firearm to another person, or accept a firearm from another person, until the Watch Your Aim. Not through malice, but negligent discharge (ND) of a firearm. The 4 Rules of Gun Safety. While it's important as an adult to know the four gun safety rules it's also extremely important for parents to talk to their kids about gun safety. As such, it’s important to understand some of the basic rules that surround gun safety, whether you’re on the range, in competition, or hunting big game. The 4 Basic Rules of Gun Safety To help ensure safe practices at home and on the range, make these gun handling principles your own, and they will become natural habits whenever you handle a firearm. Be aware of anyone or anything behind and around your intended target. Rule 3: Keep your finger off the trigger and outside The ADTA observes and enforces these principles at all ADTA events, from demonstrations to dry practice events to live fire events. Bullets are can pass through intended targets to strike unintended persons or property, and they contain enough power to pass through common barriers such as drywall, car doors, and common wood construction materials. Always direct the muzzle of the firearm in a safe direction away from anyone or anything you wish to keep safe and intact. 1. They have a ton of resources and kits you can download for parents who are also gun owners to help ensure responsible gun ownership as a parent. Observe trigger discipline when unholstering and holstering firearms. What is above, below, to the left, to the right, and what is behind it. There will always be practical exceptions to conceptual absolutes of the 4 Rules of Gun Safety. 4. Keep the action open and the gun unloaded until you are ready to use it. In the extremely rare cases of an accidental discharge caused by mechanical failure, a firearm pointed in a safe direction will discharge away from people and valuables on the premises. Remember you are handling a deadly weapon and in any instance whether you are cleaning it, practicing your at-home dry fire, or showing it to a friend always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. Training systems are not important enough for you to violate these safety principles.[1]. Guns are dangerous when they are not handled or used properly and can easily injure or kill you, and those around you. Guns can be loaded or unloaded but don’t ever assume that.[1]. The 4 Rules of Gun Safety 1) Treat all guns as if they are always loaded.. Rules like this may seem like common sense. Get into a Gun Safety Class and Learn all you can! The decision to own a firearm is personal and comes with the ongoing commitment to safety and responsibility. Always treat every gun as if it were loaded. 3. Observant and keen adherence to the first rule of firearm safety is the fundamental operating basis for safe gun handling; this awareness-seeking mindset should always be applied and extend to all other forms of gun safety. If there is any need to handle a firearm as if it were unloaded, it is only safe to do so with firsthand visual confirmation. 455 Massachusetts Avenue Northwest STE 155, CCW Start Here, Dressing for Concealed Carry, my apprehension and anxiety when it came to shooting for the first few times, cartoon style video featuring Eddie Eagle and his Wing Team. One of the worst things that a novice gun owner can do is hold a rifle, pistol, or shotgun improperly. You need to be conscious of where you bullet will land. When I first went shooting with the husband and we started renting guns, I vaguely remember signs posted about the four rules of gun safety. To become an expert at handling a firearm, one should invest time and practice into proper handling, operation, and maintenance to become familiar and proficient in all aspects of competition marksmanship and self-defense. It might be, even if you think it isn't. Bullets can pass through walls and many common barriers. 2. The 4 safety rules All guns are always loaded Never let the muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy Keep your finger off the trigger till your sights are on the target Identify your target, and what is behind it When discharging firearms outdoors, take careful consideration when selecting a safe direction. There are a few great programs available to help parents educate their children on firearm safety. Never let the muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy. Keep your finger off the trigger and outside of the trigger guard until you are on target and have made the conscious decision to fire. Make sure you have an adequate backstop—don t shoot at a flat, hard surface or water. Always Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction, Never let the muzzle cover anything which you are not willing to destroy.[1]. Be aware of any object that may find its way into the trigger guard. The purpose of this rule is to develop safe habits. Rule #1: Always Treat a … Proper gun safety will ensure someone’s journey through firearm’s training will be free of incident and catastrophe. You must always be sure of your target and the surrounding area. Always be sure of your target and beyond. 4 Rules of Gun Safety. Once a firearm has been (1) holstered, (2) placed upon a table or on the ground, or (3) stored in a drawer or safe (even for a second), it must be treated as a loaded weapon until its status is once again visually confirmed. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target. On the other hand, some rules are specific and address a particular process like gun cleaning. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you have made the decision to shoot. 1. The following are the four universal rules when it comes to firearm safety and should be adhered to anytime you are handling a firearm. Be aware of anything or anyone behind the intended target. The 4 universal rules of gun safety are: Treat all guns as if they are always loaded. Before cleaning your gun, make absolutely sure that it is unloaded. 4 Rules of Gun Safety The gun is always loaded. 2. In 2015, they upgraded the program to include guides for parents, a revamped cartoon style video featuring Eddie Eagle and his Wing Team, a kids specific website, and lots more information. You never fool around or play with guns. While it is a bit intrusive and might be uncomfortable, don't be afraid to ask the parents of your child's play date if they own any firearms and if they are stored securely. Never leave your weapons unsecured or unattended. Always Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction. Providing kids with the right information can  help prevent accidents. Even when resting upon a table or on the ground, be sure the muzzle of a firearm faces a safe direction. The 4 Cardinal Rules of Firearm Safety have more meaning than the basic sentences we have memorized. The 4 Universal Gun Safety Rules (pages 58-61) *Always follow these rules when handling all firearms. 4 Rules of Gun Safety As Daniel Shaw instructs them. Each one of these tragedies occured by breaking one or more gun safety rules. Now that I am firearm owner I realize how important these basic firearm safety rules are and must be part of the fundamentals that EVERYONE should know - gun owner, shooter, or not. Rule #1: All Guns are always loaded. World and National champion shooter and mother, Julie Golob also created the book Toys, Tools, Guns & Rules to help parents start navigating this area with their children. Being alert, observant, and positively aware will always trump being casual and complacent. This guide will review clear and useful concepts to illustrate the ins and outs of gun safety while demystifying potential scenarios that might cause a person to abandon common sense. At some point, a person will affirmatively need to determine their firearm is inert for these common scenarios. Bullets that miss their target will continue their flight path at speeds of hundreds and, sometimes, thousands of meters per second. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features. The National Rifle Association provides a similar set of rules: Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. It's just best practice and that knowledge doesn't hurt. 3. This site is owned and operated by Gun Satey Source. All Guns Are Always Loaded. Some are general rules meant to safeguard the user, the people around him or her, animals, and other objects that may get destroyed by a strayed bullet. Observant and keen adherence to the first rule of firearm safety is the fundamental... 2. There are 4 rules of gun safety to observe at all times when handling a gun. This means that at any given time, no matter what the firearms perceived condition, treat the firearm like it was loaded. When the rules are followed accidents can be minimized. In order to disassemble, clean, transport, and travel with firearms, they must actually be unloaded and treated as such. Safety is the single most important aspect of owning and using a firearm, and it all begins with the basic rules of gun safety. Additional specific rules of safe gun handling Safety Rules Related to the Shooter and His Behavior. As long as the person handling the firearm visually confirms that it is unloaded, these actions can be safely performed. Keep your fingers away from the trigger while loading or unloading. Never let the muzzle point at anything that you are not willing to destroy. Be aware of any unintentional redirection of the muzzle. 2. Required fields are marked *. Gun Safety Source is a participant in the Amazon LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The 4 Rules of Gun Safety Treat every gun as if it is loaded…always. Whether you are a parent that doesn't own a firearm or doesn't have the desire to own one doesn't mean that other parents don't. Related TopicsGun Safety and KidsFirst Time Shooting Range Guide, Your email address will not be published. Rule 1: Treat all guns as though they are always loaded. Being a gun owner means that you have made a commitment to knowing these rules and living them. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Your Target is in Your Sights. Keep your finger away from the trigger until the gun is on target and you are ready to shoot. How? 3. Otherwise, it would be impossible to disassemble, clean, store, transport, or even holster a firearm. Sign up with your email address to get your own copy of the 4 Rules of Gun Safety graphic sent to your email. Know Your Target (and What is Behind It). There are 4 Rules of Gun Safety that must be followed 100% of the time. 3. All guns are always loaded. The National Shootings Sports Foundation created Project Child Safe to promote firearm safety and education. Gun Safety Rules . RULE THREE: Always keep your finger OFF the trigger until your sights are on target and you have made the decision to shoot. By living the mindset that all guns are loaded means that the rest of the firearm safety rules will naturally fall into place and that the potential of accidents are minimized. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Your Target is in Your Sights. They also put together an educational video for parents to help you start the conversation with your children regarding firearms safety.