Guns are popular in the United States, where nearly a third of all adults own a firearm. Looking at the world around us, there’s no wonder why the majority of gun owners cite protection as the reason they own a firearm.
Whether you want to get in on the trend for protection reasons as well, want to hunt, practice target shooting, or something else, there are a set of general gun basics all current and prospective gun owners should know.
If this is news to you, don’t fret. Here’s a quick guide on learning about guns for beginners.
Handle Your Firearm With Care
The one single most important thing to know about guns is how to handle one properly. In 2018, over 39,000 gun-related deaths were unintentional and could have been avoided. Here are some basic rules about handling a gun.
1. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger
One of the most common ways that gun accidents happen is by accidentally pulling the trigger. Learning to keep your finger away from the trigger except when you’re totally prepared to shoot is the way to go.
2. If the Gun Isn’t Loaded, Act Like It Is
Another way to handle your gun in order to avoid unintentional discharge is by always treating the gun like it’s loaded, even when you know it’s not. This way, you get in the habit of handling your gun extra carefully, so when the gun actually is loaded, you won’t get hurt or hurt someone else.
3. Never Ever Look Down the Barrel
You’d be surprised about how often gun accidents happen when someone looks down the barrel of a loaded gun. There are a number of reasons that guns won’t fire, and none of them will be solved by staring down the barrel. If you find your gun is having an issue and your first thought is to look down the barrel, save yourself a trip to the hospital, and take it to a professional instead.
Storing Guns Safely
Most people who are injured or killed in gun accidents are under 24 years old. Sadly, this statistic includes even young children.
Preventing child gun deaths is easy with a locking gun cabinet or safe. Get in the habit of locking your gun away every time you leave it alone. Whether you have children or not, this will help avoid accidents as well as theft.
Keep Your Gun in Top Condition
One of the things people don’t often talk about when buying guns is maintaining the firearm. Like any other mechanical instrument, firearms need proper care to keep them in working order and to keep you safe.
Learning to maintain your own gun with your own set of gunsmithing tools will save you grief and money, and can even help you make a buck on the side.
More Gun Basics and Hunting Information
Now that you’ve learned about these important gun basics, it’s time to get out there and practice shooting. With proper safety and gun care in mind, you and your gun will be in top condition and you’ll be making the big leagues in no time.
For more gun and hunting news to help you along the road to success, look no further than our blog. We have everything you need to be a successful hunter right here, so get to reading!
