How to Teach Firearm Safety

Instructing a beginning shooter in the basics of firearm safety is one of the most important tasks a sporting shooter will take on. The grave consequences of sending a beginning shooter on the range without adequate preparation testify to the importance of this safety step. When proper safety rules are enforced, a trip to the shooting range can be an educational and enjoyable way to introduce someone to this dynamic outdoor sport.

Instructions

    • 1

      Drive home the point that every weapon needs to be treated as though it is loaded until proper action has been taken to clear the chamber. Supposedly unloaded guns are frequently the cause of many firearm accidents.

    • 2

      Repeat to the beginning shooter never to point a weapon or gun at anything he doesn't intend to shoot. Frivolous gun play should never be tolerated, either on the range or at home.

    • 3

      Instruct the shooter to keep his or her finger straight and off the trigger until ready to fire. This is sound advice for marksmanship practice as well.

    • 4

      Intervene immediately in the case of a firearm malfunction, such as a jammed cartridge. Beginning shooters are likely to become confused and disregard safety instruction when faced with an unexpected mechanical problem with the firearm.

    • 5

      Escort the shooter from the range immediately is he or she fails to observe the rules of the range or appears not to take the instruction seriously. Many are attracted to gun culture without understanding the etiquette necessary to participate.