Gun Safety: Moving & Handling

Gun ownership is a popular pastime in America. Whether owned for hunting, sports shooting, home protection or historical value, guns come with the risk of accidental discharge that could result in fatal consequences.

The risk of accidental discharge while moving or handling guns can be mitigated by using common sense, which can allow for safe enjoyment of your gun.

Keep Gun Unloaded

• Keep guns unloaded until ready to use.

  The best way to prevent a gun from discharging accidentally is to keep it unloaded until you are ready to use it. Guns used for sports or guns being transported should be unloaded before they are put away.

  When guns are taken out of storage they should be inspected to assure they are empty before further handling. Ammunition should be stored separately to prevent others from loading gun without the owner's knowledge.

  Safety locks should be in place regardless of whether the gun is loaded. They should only be disengaged when firing or cleaning a gun.

Pointing a Gun

• Guns should not be aimed at people.

  When handling a gun, never aim it at anyone or property. Instead hold the gun pointed down. If an accidental discharge occurs it's better to be aimed at the ground. This is true at home, outside or at a shooting range.

Trigger Finger

• Put a finger on the trigger only when you are ready to shoot.

  Guns are designed with a trigger guard to prevent accidental discharges, but the guard is only as good as the user. Gun handlers should rest their finger on the outside of the trigger guard or the side of the gun until they are ready to fire the gun. Aim should be established before putting a finger on the trigger.

Proper Ammunition

• Know the proper ammunition for your gun.

  Use the correct size and type of ammunition for the gun being fired. Improper ammunition can misfire or damage the gun, the gun handler or people nearby. Proper ammunition size is usually stamped on the barrel of the gun and written on the box of ammunition. If you are unsure, consult a gun store employee about the proper ammunition for your gun.

Secure Storage

• Gun lockers can be installed to safely hold your weapon.

  When a gun is not in use it should be stored in a secure location. Gun boxes and lockers or safes can be used for storage, while some gun locks attach directly onto guns. Many options are available depending on the needs of the gun owner.

Cleaning Safety

• Cleaning is a necessary part of gun maintenance. Gun cleaning keeps guns safe and operational. Guns that have been used or that have been in storage should be cleaned to keep parts working and the barrel clean.

  When cleaning a gun make sure it is unloaded. The gun's action should be open at all times during cleaning and no ammunition should be in the gun cleaning area.

Transporting Guns

• Transporting guns in vehicles may require a permit from your state or locality. Check local gun laws to see the standards for gun transportation.

  Federal law allows for the transport of legal guns for legal purposes across state lines. Guns must be unloaded, locked in cases and out of reach of the driver or passengers, such as in the trunk. Ammunition should be stored separately in a locked container. Guns should never be carried in the glove compartment.