We emphasise gun safety on the range

Because we emphasise gun safety on the range, we’d like to share some additional pointers following a previous post on gun safety.

Learn the mechanics of your firearm

The mechanics of every firearm is different. That’s why Marksman’s Nest chief ranger Geoffrey Coetzee warns, “Don’t ever handle a firearm without first familiarising yourself with that particular firearm. And always observe the safe gun handling rules for loading, unloading, carrying and handling. “Read the instruction manual carefully. Don’t try to guess how it works. For instance, one handgun manufacturer might recommend carrying its handguns with the hammer down on an empty chamber. They provide this recommendation for a reason! “Once you’ve understood the firearm’s characteristics and safe use, then, and only then, can you try it out. If in doubt, sign up for a Marksman’s Nest safe gun handling course. Do the responsible thing if you’re new to firearms and get training! Gun safety is not a choice – it’s a MUST.”

Ensure that the barrel is clear of obstructions

Another good tip is to check the barrel of your gun. “Before loading your firearm, open the action to ensure that no ammunition is in the chamber or magazine. Clear any little obstruction, such as bits of mud or excess grease in the bore. Such obstructions could cause dangerously increased pressures. And, heaven forbid, the latter might cause the barrel to burst on firing. Needless to say, this has the potential to cause injury," Geoffrey warned. “We encourage shooters to adopt the habit of cleaning the bore with a cleaning rod immediately before shooting. Should the noise or recoil on firing seem weak, stop firing straight-away and check that no obstruction has lodged in the barrel. “Pay close attention to each cartridge you insert into your firearm. By placing a smaller gauge into a gun, the smaller cartridge might fall into the barrel and cause a bore obstruction when you fire a cartridge of the proper size. You don’t want to sit with a burst barrel! So, do take care.”

Don’t modify your gun

Firearms are complicated mechanisms! Geoffrey said, “Experts design guns specifically to function properly in their original condition. Any after-market change to a firearm might make the gun dangerous. Plus of course the fact that factory warranties will be void. Please don’t jeopardise your safety or that of others by altering the trigger, safety or other mechanism on your firearm.”

Service your gun regularly

As recommended when you bought your gun, make a point of servicing it regularly. All mechanical devices are subject to wear and tear.

Finally

“We reiterate that we emphasise gun safety on the range,” Geoffrey said. “By following our safety procedures and developing safe shooting habits, you’ll enjoy many happy years of shooting like a pro.”