Posted by on 1/14/2022 to
As a gun owner, you are responsible for the safety of that gun as well as the safety of all others by that gun. How to keep everything and everyone safe can be more easily done by following a few guidelines. If some of these seem redundant it is because they are. Safety is important enough that it should be approached from every angle.
- Treat every gun as if it is loaded at all times.
- Learn the proper use of your firearm, including proper loading and adjusting
- Safely ensure that the barrel is clear and ready for use
- Only load your gun when you are ready to use it.
- Do not put your finger on the trigger until you are ready to fire.
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Be sure of your target
- Be aware of what is around and beyond the target
- Make sure you are using the correct ammunition
- Learn how to properly clear misfires, jams, and all other issues
- If your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, do not move the gun from the target, hold your position for several seconds, then with your muzzle pointed to a safe place, carefully unload the gun
- Use the safety, but don’t count on it completely, point your gun as if it could fire at any time
- Wear ear and eye protection
- Never allow the gun to be pointed at anything you do not intend to shoot. This does not mean that everywhere it is pointed would be an ideal place for it to fire, however it should never be pointed anywhere that would cause harm if it did fire.
Safe storage of your firearm is very important for the safety of your firearm as well as everyone around that firearm. Many of the accidental gun deaths every year could be prevented by following safe gun storage guidelines.
First, make sure that the gun is not loaded when not in use. You can keep a full magazine nearby, though it should be kept separately from your gun. Basically, you want to make it nigh impossible for anyone who might come across the gun to be able to load it, there should not be a cartridge in the chamber of the gun. The gun should not be cocked even if unloaded.
- Guns should be stored unloaded, uncocked, and securely locked out of sight or reach
- Treat all guns as if they are loaded
- Check the chamber of a semi-automatic handgun for bullets when removing the magazine
- Lock your gun, keep the key on you
- Individual guns should have their own locks, especially if not in a locked container of some kind like a cabinet or safe
- Lock ammunition separately from your gun
- Keep ammunition away from moisture and heat
- Storage should be cool, clean, and dry
- Guns should be stored horizontally or with the muzzle pointing down. When guns are stored upright gun oil can seep downward causing stickyness on the action and wood.
There are different types of gun storage containers and each has their own advantages and drawbacks. Determine which are best for you depending on your budget, space, and needs.
Trigger Lock - These are locks that go over the actual trigger on the gun, rendering them unusable until the lock is removed. Lock your trigger and hide the gun somewhere out of sight and away from easy access. This is a simple yet effective tool for preventing unwanted accidents. This works great in conjunction with other options as it will provide redundant security.
Lock your Gun Case - Guns often come in their own carrying case and they will usually have a locking system on the case. Even if it is just a hole in the case where you can insert your own padlock, it is an extra layer of security.
Gun Storage Bag- A great option as it secures the gun and allows for convenient storage and transportation. These first few security measures have the advantage of easy transportation, which can become a drawback, as it can be easily removed if stolen.
A Locked Storage Closet or Cabinet - Keep your firearms locked and out of sight. Can also be used to store other things. Great if you don’t have a lot of guns and want to maximize space. Works well in tandem with a Gun Storage Bag and Trigger Locks.
Gun Cabinets - Excellent for any gun owner, the more guns you have the better. This secures your guns in a place where the case itself is not readily moved along with its cargo. In some instances, you can even still view your collection without opening it. If they are in view it does add risk because others can see them. Even if you do opt for the more secure and solid doors, it just takes a quick unlock and you have access to your guns.
Safes - These are designed from the outset to keep everything inside them safe, so it is a great place to keep your gun safe from theft and fire damage.
Gun Specific Safes - Just about ideal. These will keep your firearms safe and in good condition. The only thing better might be…
A Secret, Climate Controlled Room with a secret code that only you know - Straight out of the movies. Okay so this may have less to do with safety and more to do with your love of firearms and awesomeness. If you can do this, why not? Keeps your guns safe and in good condition. Enjoy the sight of the room opening and the display of all of your awesome firearms. You may not want to go to this trouble if you only own a regular handgun for home protection.