Basic Firearm Safety For Hunters

Every year, hundreds of hunting accidents occur across the U.S. -- just ask Vice President Cheney. Many of these accidents could have been avoided by practicing a few basic gun safety techniques.

Know your firearm

If your firearm came with an owner’s manual, read it from cover to cover. Practice taking apart your rifle and inspecting it thoroughly. If you knowwhat your rifle looks like normally, you will be quick to recognize any abnormalities of the rifle in the field. If you drop your firearm or fall while carrying it, take it apart and inspect it for damage. Make sure that the slide operates smoothly. If you are in doubt about the integrity of your rifle, don’t fire it.