NRA Hunter Safety

Forty-nine states make hunter safety training mandatory for persons born after 1977 to obtain a hunting license. The objectives of the course are broad in that it covers not only gun safety, but wildlife conservation, first aid, basic survival techniques and wildlife laws. The program helps to educate hunters and others who venture into the forest for sport. The National Rifle Association sponsors and supports federal, state and local gun and hunter safety programs.

  1. Gun Safety

    • Foremost on the curriculum for NRA hunter safety is the safe use of firearms. As most hunters use a rifle or handgun, safe handling both in and out of the woods is imperative. Topics include shooting safety, properly securing a firearm, dangers of handling a loaded firearm, awareness of bystanders as well as proper care and maintenance.

    Wildlife Conservation

    • Hunters have long been the pioneers of conserving the land's natural resources. In standing with that philosophy, appreciation for nature and its conservation must be demonstrated for most state hunter training programs.

    Basic First Aid

    • There is always a chance for injury of some type while hunting or camping in the wilderness. The ability to perform basic first aid on yourself or others may save someone's life. CPR, wound treatment, treating snake bites and immobilization of a broken or sprained limb are commonly found in such a training course.

    Basic Survival Techniques

    • Becoming lost or stranded in the woods is a harrowing experience. When everything around looks the same, you can easily get turned around and lose your way. A panicked reaction to the realization of being lost will only compound the problem. Exposure to basic survival techniques provides valuable information on surviving such an ordeal, and the knowledge of knowing what to do often prevents panic.

    Wildlife Laws

    • Hunting laws are abundant and diverse. Obtaining a hunting license and possessing the ability to shoot a gun do not qualify someone as a responsible hunter. Conveying an appreciation for wildlife is in part achieved through education of game species. The ability to confidently identify the wildlife and thoroughly understand the laws regulating them comprise the capstone of an NRA hunter safety course.