You should adhere to gun safety tips to ensure that you won’t experience issues such as property damage, unintentional injury, or even death when you mishandle a firearm. There are numerous deaths globally that arise from improper possession, storage, and mishandling of firearms.
The hunting season is near, and you should get to learn about some of the gun safety tips you should adhere to as a hunter and they include:
- Ensure You’re Aware of Your Target
After releasing a shot, you can’t recall it. In short, you’re not in control anymore. When shooting, you should ensure you’re aware of your target and what lies beyond the target. The bullet should not go ahead and hit anything that lies beyond the target. The type of ammunition that you use will travel for a certain distance.
Always keep in mind that your target will not stop the bullet completely. Ensure the bullet won’t go beyond the target.
- When the Gun is Not in Use, It Should Be Unloaded
The gun should only be loaded when you’re in a shooting area. When you’re done with the gun, ensure it is unloaded. The loaded gun should also not be placed in the car.
If the gun is loaded, you should not push it towards another person. When dealing with a firearm, you should ensure there are no assumptions. It is as simple as checking whether the gun is loaded or unloaded. When assumptions are involved, you may end up endangering your life or someone else’s life. The moment you avoid assumptions, it is a sign that you’re a responsible individual. As a gun owner, you should also ensure that unauthorized personnel and children won’t have access to your gun. You should also acquire your firearm from a reputable dealer who also sells the accessories you need to ensure your hunting session progresses well.
- Use the Correct Ammunition
If you use the wrong ammunition, you’ll end up destroying your gun. You may also end up incurring some injuries. You should be sure about the ammunition you have acquired and ensure that it is compatible with your gun.
If the ammunition is wet, you should not use it. Also, you should not spray solvents on the ammo. When you use the wrong ammo, some of the issues you’ll experience include poor performance and ignition.
A responsible firearm owner will ensure they’re using the correct ammo, and they’ll also ensure it’s not damaged. The main focus is on ensuring the gun is functioning well throughout the hunting session such that you won’t have to worry about getting injured.
- The Muzzle Should be Pointed Upwards or Downwards
This is a basic rule when you’re holding a firearm. If you don’t intend to shoot, ensure it is facing upwards or downwards such that it will be possible to avoid unexpected accidents.
If you don’t intend to shoot anything, you should not point your gun in any direction, especially if you’re a hunter. As you unload the gun, also ensure it is pointed in a safe direction.
- Your Fingers Should Be Kept Away from the Trigger Unless You’re Ready to Shoot
As a responsible firearm owner, you should handle your gun accordingly. It means you cannot touch the firearm’s trigger until you’re ready to take that shot. The main focus is on guaranteeing your safety as a hunter.
- Acquire Protective Gear
Before you go on a hunting spree, you should ensure you have protective gear, including hearing protectors and shooting glasses. When you’re exposed to loud noises, your hearing will be affected. As a result, you need to have protective gear.
Final Thoughts
There are more gun safety tips that hunters can adhere to; however, we have focused on the essential ones.
