I'll start off:
1. A gun is ALWAYS loaded! No exceptions! If someone hands you a gun, you IMMEDIATELY check to see if loaded. It doesn't matter if he just did same unless a firing range professional. If you don't know how to check for load, do NOT take physical possession;
2. NEVER EVER put your finger on the trigger until you are seconds away from firing;
3. NEVER EVER point a gun at anyone for any reason, even if inadvertently. Always be aware of the direction of the barrel. If learning, point the weapon down if no other safe direction exists.
There are other rules that the National Rifle Association discusses on their website, but they may not apply to home defense, such as keep your gun unloaded. Check their site for other safety and training protocol.
My next post will be about handling a pump shotgun, arguably the most common home defense weapon.
Top 10 Gun Safety Tips:
10. Always keep your gun pointed in a safe direction. Such as at a hippy or a commie.
9. Dumb children may get a hold of your guns and shoot each other. If your children are dumb, put them up for adoption to protect your guns.
8. No matter how responsible he seems. Never give your gun to a monkey.
7. If guns make you nervouse. Drink a bottle of whiskey before heading to the range.
6. When unholstering your weapon. It’s customary to say “Excuse me while I whip this out”
5. Don’t load your gun unless you are ready to shoot something or are just feeling angry.
4. If your gun misfires, never look down the barrel. Have someone else do it for you.
3. Never use your gun to pistol whip someone. It could mar the finish.
2. No matter how excited you are about buying your first gun. Never run around yelling “I HAVE A GUN. I HAVE A GUN.”
1. And the most important rule of gun safety. DON’T MAKE ME MAD!