Skill in handling firearms safely means actually applying the gun safety rules. Skill is perfected through practice, practice, and more practice. Always Keep the Gun Pointed in a Safe Direction . The key to this rule is to control where the muzzle or front end of the barrel is pointed at all times. Always Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot .
People have a natural tendency to place their finger on the trigger while holding a gun.
The correct method is to rest your finger along the side of the gun. Do not touch the trigger until you're ready to fire 3. Always Keep the Gun Unloaded Until Ready to Use . When picking up a gun, if it has a magazine, remove it and open the action to check to see that the chamber's empty. If you don't know how, refer to the owners manual or get help from someone knowledgeable.