Module 3: Rules of Gun Safety
Every shooter, whether they shoot once in their lifetime or compete on a regular basis MUST
know the 4 Rules of Guns Safety.
1. All guns are always loaded.
2. Never let the muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.
4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
In a match, these rules are enhanced:
1. COLD RANGE: Unless you are actually in the course of fire and under the direction of a Range Officer, your gun must be in its holster or bagged with the hammer (or striker) down on an empty chamber and the magazine well or cylinder must be empty. The only place you may handle your gun off the line is in the designated safety area and no ammunition (dummy and empty cases, loaded magazines, loaded speed loading devices and live rounds) must not be handled in a Safety Area under any circumstances. If you are new to a range, ask for the location of the safety area(s) and where it is acceptable to holster or un-holster your firearm. If you are legally allowed to carry a firearm, disarm yourself before entering the premises of a match. Clubs may provide an area separate from a safety area for LEO or concealed carry permit holders to safely remove their LE or concealed carry firearm prior to the match and to gun up prior to leaving the range.
2. 90 DEGREE RULE: Your muzzle must never cover more than 90 degrees from the median intercept of the backstop (including up or down) during a course of fire. For new shooters, Range officers might warn a new shooter if they see you getting close to violating this rule, however, it is your responsibility to be aware of your location and orientation.
3. SWEEPING or MUZZLING: Ensure your muzzle does not cover your own hands or body while drawing, moving, reloading, reaching for a door, reholstering, etc. This also means never pointing the muzzle of your firearm at anyone.
4. FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER: When you are not actually engaging a target, your finger must be off the trigger and clearly outside the trigger guard. This includes while moving, reloading, drawing, reholstering, and clearing malfunctions.
5. KNOW YOUR TARGET AND WHAT IS BEYOND: Take your time and make every shot count. You are responsible for every shot you send down range. If a course appears unsafe to you, contact a match official immediately.