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Instructor Reese

Firearms Safety

The foundation everything else is built on.

The four universal safety rules

These four rules are universal — taught by every credible training organization worldwide. Violating any one can cause a negligent discharge. Violating two at once is when people get hurt.

1

Treat every firearm as if it were loaded

Never assume a gun is unloaded. Physically and visually inspect the chamber every time you handle a firearm, even if someone hands it to you and says it's clear.

Mindset rule — governs all handling.

2

Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy

Control muzzle direction at all times. Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction — downrange at the range, or in a known-safe direction at home.

Muzzle discipline — the physical safety net.

3

Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target

Rest your index finger straight along the frame or receiver above the trigger guard. Only place it on the trigger when you have made the decision to fire.

Trigger discipline — prevents negligent discharge.

4

Be sure of your target and what is beyond it

Identify your target positively and know your backstop. Bullets pass through and ricochet — you are responsible for every round you fire.

Target awareness — responsibility for the shot.

Range-specific rules

  • Always follow the Range Safety Officer's commands immediately.
  • Cease fire means stop shooting, finger off trigger, and step back.
  • Keep firearms pointed downrange at all times on the firing line.
  • Do not handle firearms when people are downrange.
  • Eye and ear protection are mandatory at all times.
  • No food, drinks, or tobacco on the firing line.

Common safety violations to avoid

Sweeping yourself or others with the muzzle
Placing finger on trigger during reload or draw
Trusting someone else's 'it's unloaded'
Drawing without checking the chamber
Handling a firearm when distracted or angry
Shooting at hard surfaces that ricochet

Chamber check & clearing procedure

Run this every time you pick up or hand off a firearm.

  1. 1Point the muzzle in a safe direction, finger off the trigger.
  2. 2Remove the magazine and set it aside.
  3. 3Rack the slide to the rear and lock it open.
  4. 4Physically and visually inspect the chamber — look and feel for a round.
  5. 5Confirm clear, then either lock the slide back or let it forward gently.

Safe storage & transport

Store firearms unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition.
Use a gun safe, lock box, or cable lock — never leave a firearm unsecured.
Transport in a locked case; keep ammo in a separate container.
Know and follow your state and local transport and storage laws.