Safety First!

Gun safety is the most important aspect of shooting and should always be practiced so that it becomes a natural reflex. The purpose of gun safety is to eliminate or minimize the risks of unintentional death, injury or damage caused by improper handling of firearms. Gun safety training seeks to instill a certain mindset and appropriate habits by following specific rules. The mindset is that firearms are inherently dangerous and must always be handled with care. Handlers are taught to treat firearms with respect for their destructive capabilities, and strongly discouraged from playing or toying with firearms, a common cause of accidents.

1. Treat all guns as if they are loaded.
2. Keep the gun pointed in the safest possible direction.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
4. Know your target, its surroundings and beyond.
5. Know how to properly operate your gun.
6. Store your gun safely and securely to prevent unauthorized use. Guns and ammunition should be stored separately.

• Always keep actions open until its your turn to shoot.
• Firearms will only be loaded at the shooting station immediately prior to shooting.
• Aiming and pointing a firearm is only permitted toward the target area from the shooting station.
• Before leaving the range area, all firearms must be unloaded (chamber and magazine empty), cased or carried with the action open.
• Use only the correct ammunition for your firearm.
• Eye and ear protection must be worn at all times on ranges.
• Keep the end of your barrel off the dirt or grass. Make sure your barrel never becomes obstructed.
• If you have a misfire do not open your action right away. Keep the barrel pointed down range count to 30 seconds and then clear your weapon.
• Make sure to keep 12 gauge and 20 gauge ammo separated. A 20 gauge shell can easily get stuck if loaded into a 12 gauge gun with room for a 12 gauge shell to sit on top of it causing your gun to become a pipe bomb if fired.

Always check with ranges you attend as they may have specific rules or guidelines to follow.

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