Firearm Ownership

UNDERSTAND THE SAFETY ASPECTS OF YOUR FIREARM

Get advice from a professional sales person on the safety aspects of the firearm you are considering buying. Select the firearm that best suits your personal needs. Ask a lot of questions! Ask about the correct ammunition for the firearm you have selected.

Become thoroughly familiar with the mechanics of the firearm you have selected. By knowing exactly how your firearm works, you are more likely to recognize any possible safety problems.

CAREFULLY READ ALL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL

An owner’s manual from the manufacturer of your firearm should be provided when you buy a new firearm. Manuals for used firearms usually can be obtained by writing or calling the manufacturer.
Carefully read the manual and use it to familiarize yourself with the firearm and its operation.

ENROLL IN A FIREARM TRAINING COURSE

To help you learn to drive a car you probably had some “behind the wheel” training and practice before you got your driver’s license. This also applies to firearm ownership. The best way to become skilled in using and understanding how your firearm operates is to enroll in a “hands-on” training course. There are many firearm training courses that can provide additional safety information.

For information on training courses in your area, contact a local firearms dealer or firearms safety organization.

CLEANING AND REPAIR

Maintenance is part of being a responsible firearms owner. Firearms should be cleaned regularly and especially after prolonged storage. The barrel should be cleaned after every use. Accumulated moisture, dirt or grease can interfere with the efficient and safe operation of a firearm.

Firearm cleaning kits and materials can be purchased from most firearms dealers. Be aware that some firearm cleaning substances are toxic. Carefully read and follow the instructions on the cleaning products.

You should clean your firearm in a location where you will have no distractions. Before you begin, always make sure your firearm is unloaded and remove any ammunition from the cleaning area. Accidents can happen if cleaning procedures are not followed correctly and safely. Therefore, you should follow the cleaning instructions in your owner’s manual and on your cleaning products. Firearms dealers or gunsmiths also are good sources for cleaning information.

Care should be taken to ensure adequate ventilation at all times to reduce the risk of inhaling lead particles. To avoid accidental ingestion of lead particles, never handle food or drink without first washing your hands. Do not smoke when exposed to lead. Wash your hands thoroughly after exposure.

Periodically inspect all firearms you own to be sure that they are in good working condition. If you notice any problems, have your firearm checked by a competent gunsmith. Any repairs should be made only by a gunsmith or the manufacturer of the firearm.

You should not attempt to make any major modifications to your firearm. Some modifications are illegal and dangerous. They also could void the manufacturer’s warranty.

By keeping your firearm properly maintained, you will ensure that it is safe to operate and will function reliably for many years.