Before you pick up a gun for the first time it is critical that you know and internalize these four rules of firearm safety. Ignorance of these rules can have disastrous consequences.
You should learn and memorize these rules. Never forget them. Pretty much every website or video I’ve read and viewed refer to these rules in this order. It is not uncommon to see people use the numbers of these rules as shorthand. For example: “Do not holster your gun this way because you would violate rule number two.”
- Always treat all firearms as if they’re loaded.
- Never point a firearm at anything you’re not willing to kill or destroy.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until on target and ready to fire.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond.
Continue reading: The Anatomy of Ammunition