Remember that a gun's safety is a mechanical device, and, like any mechanical device, it could fail. You can't stop a shot in mid-air. So don't fire unless you know exactly where your shot is going and what it will strike. Never fire at a sound, a movement or a patch of color. Never shoot without being absolutely sure of what you're shooting at, and what's behind it.
Every firearm is designed to use a certain caliber or gauge of ammunition.
Using the wrong ammunition, or mixing ammunition, can destroy your firearm and expose you or bystanders to serious personal injury. Always Wear Eye and Ear Protection When Shooting. Your sight and hearing risk injury from shooting, and should be protected at all times. Serious damage to your eyes, including loss of sight, can result if the barrel of your gun burst for any reason. Wear shooting glasses to guard against such injury, as well as falling shot, clay target chips, powder residue and twigs in the field.