5 Basic Safety Tips For Your Personal Firearm

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

Whether you’re interested in joining the armed forces, becoming a police officer, getting armed security guard certification, or are simply buying your first handgun for home protection and self-defense, the very first thing on your mind should be firearm safety. And while the military and police force will teach you how to properly handle your firearm, if you’re a civilian, or are hoping to become an armed guard, your weapons training is pretty much up to you.

There are some excellent online practical defense classes out there that offer shooting and concealed carry permit courses, as well as security guard card training services, but any instructor will expect you to at least know the fundamentals of gun safety before you begin. Here are some basic firearm safety tips that every prospective gun owner should know:

Get to Know Your Firearm
Not all handguns are the same. It is important that you familiarize yourself with the particular mechanical features of your specific firearm before you use it. Uncertainty about the operation of your weapon can have serious and/or deadly consequences, so get to know your firearm inside and out. If you ever have any questions, there is no shame in consulting the manual, your local gun store, or contacting the manufacturer.

Always Treat Your Weapon As If It Were Loaded
When not in use, your firearm’s safety should be on, but either way you should still treat it as if the safety is off and the weapon is loaded. No matter what, you should never take someone’s word for it. Always check for yourself. And never pass your firearm to someone else without first opening the cylinder or action and visually confirming that it is unloaded.

Do Not Point Your Firearm at Anything You Don’t Intend to Shoot
Whether it is loaded or unloaded, even if the safety is on and your finger is outside the trigger guard, you should always keep your gun pointed in a safe direction. Keep this in mind especially when loading and unloading your firearm.

Store Your Firearm Safely
Safe and secure storage requires constant vigilance and is one of the biggest responsibilities that comes with firearms ownership. Even momentary lapses have cost people (mostly young children) their lives. If you think your child doesn’t know where you keep your handgun, you’re probably wrong. Use a gun safe, or good gun lock, store your firearm and ammunition separately, and always keep your weapon out of reach and sight of children.

Always Use The Correct Ammo And Equipment
It’s important that you know what goes with your particular firearm and what doesn’t. The ammunition to be used with your particular firearm will be indicated by the marking on the barrel. And you should never use non-standard, reloaded, or hand-loaded ammunition. Also, when buying accessories, such as holsters, grips, slings, vests etc., make sure they are compatible with your firearm. Accessories that aren’t just right for your weapon might interfere with safe operation.

These safety tips might seem like pretty simple common sense rules, but you’d be surprised how often even experienced gun owners forget them. We all need reminding of the basics sometimes, so try to keep these in mind when purchasing and training with your new gun. Doing so will you keep you from damaging your firearm and could even save your life, or the life of someone you care about.

This content is courtesy of Practical Defense Systems. They offer security guard training, certification and classes. Whether you have a desire to begin a career in security and protective services, are looking to increase your current skills, or simply want to be able to protect yourself and those you love, Practical Defense Systems have the experience and training to help you.