Gun Ownership

Parents must provide gun safety rules to children. Even if firearms are not in your household, with guns in about half of all U.S. households, your children may be exposed to firearms. The NRA safety programs for children are especially helpful.

If you are a new shooter, it is best to seek complete and thorough instruction on the safe and proper use of firearms. There are many choices, including the NRA, depending on the style of shooting you intend to do. See your local law enforcement agency, local gun shop, or a local shooting club.

Initially, perform dry firing only, with an unloaded firearm. Do not have a magazine or any ammunition in the same room. You must still point only in a safe direction. Practice until you are smooth and familiar with all of your firearm's features and safeties. Once confident with your firearm, practice live firing only at a shooting range. Again, start very slowly and concentrate on all safety procedures. Remember, perfect practices makes perfect!

You are responsible for the correct maintenance of your firearms. Even the best gun, like all precision machines, require periodic maintenance and review. While you may use lubricants liberally on moving arts in your firearm, avoid any lubricants or aerosols on cartridges. ALWAYS empty a firearm before cleaning. Remove the magazine, check the chamber, and NEVER look down the barrel. Every time you pick up a pistol, even if you just laid it down, verify it is unloaded and clear.