Firearm and Hunting Safety The key to hunting

Firearm and Hunting Safety

The key to hunting safety is your ability to handle a gun in the right way.

Three Basic Rules • Treat every gun as though it is loaded. • Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. • Be sure of your target - and beyond.

Be Extra Alert When. . . • You are inexperienced. • When you are carrying a gun over obstacles. • When you are plinking. • When you first spot game. • When a hunting partner forgets or ignores the safety rules.

Loading a Gun • Point the muzzle in a safe direction. • Open the action and check for correct operation. Leave the action open. • Load the magazine. Count your shells. • Close the action, loading the chamber. • Make sure the safety is on. Double-check. • Prepare to carry your firearm safely.

Unloading a Gun • • Point the muzzle in a safe direction. Open the action to unload the chamber. Remove the clip, empty tube, etc. . Shells should only be ejected from the magazine by working the action if it is impossible to unload the firearm without doing so. • Count the shells. • Double-check the magazine and the chamber. Make sure the gun is on safety.

Carrying a Firearm • Double-hand or Ready • Cradle Care • Elbow Carry • Shoulder Carry • Sling Carry • Trail Carry

Rules for Carrying • Make sure the safety is on. • Keep your finger outside the trigger guard. • Always point the muzzle in a safe direction and keep it under control. • Keep the firearm unloaded until you begin to stalk game.

Crossing Rough Terrain • Unload your firearm, or at least unload the chamber. Be prepared to protect your firearm if you should fall. Control the direction of the muzzle. • Wear non-slip boots and never run or jump with a loaded firearm. • To safely cross a fence, unload, or at least open the action. Lay the gun down and point muzzle in a safe direction. Check muzzle for obstructions when you pick it up.

Shooting Positions • Standing • Sitting • Kneeling • Prone

Above All…. . . • Safety Begins and Ends With You!