Owning a gun can be very enjoyable, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility that many people fail to take into account. All too often, new gun owners aren’t great about following the simplest of safety protocols, and that ignorance can come with deadly consequences. So, whether it’s safely storing your firearm, how you handle it outside of the shooting range or how you shoot it, there are some important safety rules you must learn and abide by.
Thinking about buying a handgun in Olathe, KS? Already own a gun for home security? Here are some key gun safety tips you should not ignore as a new (or experienced) gun owner:
- Never point your gun at something you don’t intend to shoot: It’s a very simple rule, but sometimes new gun owners start pointing their guns at other people like they’re toys. A gun is not a toy! Never, ever point a gun—loaded or not—at another person or animal. If you are being attacked, that’s a different story, but otherwise, always be thinking about where the barrel is pointing and what a bullet would hit if the gun were to suddenly discharge.
- Keep your finger off the trigger unless you are ready to shoot: Guns are designed to sit comfortably in the hand. Because of this, people often rest their fingers on the trigger as a force of habit. This is very dangerous. If you are carrying the gun and trip or are startled, you can inadvertently fire off a round. This can mean accidentally hitting someone.
- Think about what is behind your target: Bullets, even those that hit their targets, can travel for great distances and go on to hit other unintended targets. For example, shooting a paper target in an open field might seem safe, but for the homes 200 yards behind it, it is a very different and dangerous story. Always be aware of your surroundings and never shoot toward homes or buildings.
- Be aware of others: As a gun owner, it is your responsibility to not hurt or fatally shoot other people with your firearm. When engaging in target practice, make sure the people around you are accounted for at all times, and never fire your gun if they are anywhere in front or off to the sides of the gun. If anyone wants to change a target, unload your gun and stop shooting altogether until everyone is out of the way.
- Wear ear and eye protection: Modern guns are pretty safe when it comes to how they are constructed and how they function, but there is always room for surprises. A jam or hot load can cause mechanical damage and throw debris into your eyes, and repetitive loud noise exposure can cause permanent damage to your hearing. Always wear proper eye and ear protection when shooting.
If you would like to see a great selection of guns all in one place, then head on over to Harrison Street Pawn. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to answer your questions about any handgun in Olathe, KS. Visit us today!