Firearm Safety
Firearm safety is important and a part of responsible gun ownership.
The fundamental NRA rules for safe gun handling are:
- Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction
- Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot
- Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use
Be sure to follow these additional NRA rules:
- Know your target and what is beyond
- Know how to use the gun safely
- Be sure the gun is safe to operate
- Use only the correct ammunition for your gun
- Where eye and ear protection as appropriate
- Never use alcohol, over-the-counter drugs or prescription drugs before or while shooting
- Store guns so they are not accessible to unauthorized persons
- Be aware that certain types of guns and many shooting activities require additional safety precautions
When it comes to gun cleaning, Otis recommends the following precautions, as recommended by the NRA:
- Clean your firearm every time it is used
- A gun brought out of prolonged storage should be cleaned before shooting. Moisture and dirt, or solidified grease/oils can prevent the gun from operating properly.
- Before cleaning your gun, make absolutely sure it is unloaded. Keep the action open during the cleaning process. Be sure no ammunition is present in the cleaning area.