Michigan Gun Safety

Like all states, Michigan has special laws and safety programs to insure the proper use of firearms. Rifles are common throughout the state and are often used for hunting. Hand guns are also frequent and are used for target shooting as well as personal safety.

  1. Gun Laws

    • According to the Federal Gun Control Act of 1968, no one can legally own an automatic weapon unless he is approved by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, according to SAF.org. This makes the most common firearms in Michigan single-shot and semi-automatic in design. Also, handguns can only be bought and possessed by a person licensed to do so, which requires a background check as well as some training in the rules of owning such a gun.

    Gun Activities and Safety

    • The types of activities guns are being used for can help dictate how to remain safe. For instance, if you are going hunting, be sure to arm yourself with guns that are of an appropriate caliber for what you are hunting. Mix inexperienced hunters with experienced ones to help them learn. If you are using guns for other activities, such as target shooting, specific guidelines include keeping the shooting range clear, shooting at approved targets and wearing protective ear plugs. Basic rules apply to a variety of gun activities as well. Be sure to never point your gun at a living thing you don't intend to shoot and kill. Always use the safety on your gun until you intend to shoot it.

    Hunter Safety Programs

    • The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment offers shooting classes and hunter education all around the state of Michigan, according to Michigan.gov. Hunter safety programs are aimed at educating young or inexperienced hunters in the use and safety of firearms. Many people take hunter safety programs while young. However, the state website says that hunter safety is required for anyone seeking a hunting license born after January 1, 1960.

    Hand Gun Training

    • Pistol training is suggested for anyone seeking a concealed weapons permit in Michigan. This teaches you how to safely operate and handle your pistol. Pistoltraining.net says that this type of training is not only good for the owner of the handgun, but also for learning what to do in a life-threatening encounter where you may need to use your firearm.

    Considerations

    • When deciding to own a gun in Michigan, it is important to consider what you will be using your gun for. Owning excess guns with no purpose, or that are ill-fitted for their use, can lead to danger, especially around a family with young people. For home protection, many feel safe with a handgun, though a shotgun may be a better choice, since you don't have to own a permit, and a shotgun delivers a blast that requires less accuracy than a single bullet. Additionally, a shotgun is large enough to be easily kept track of and locked away safely. These types of considerations will insure the safety of having guns in your household.