SAFETY RULES / LEGAL

At The Carry Guy, we share a passion for firearms with the NRA, and it's crucial that we handle them with respect and safety. Here are three fundamental rules we always follow to ensure everyone's safety:

1. Always treat every gun as if it's loaded no matter WHO hands it to you or where you pick it up from. At The Carry Guy Academy, “treat every gun as loaded” means always assume a firearm is ready to fire, no matter who hands it to you or where it’s from. This core safety rule drives our training, ensuring students check and clear guns every time, preventing accidents. Safety first, always.
2. Always Point the Gun in a Safe Direction
   This is the most important rule of gun safety. A safe direction means aiming the gun where it won’t cause injury or damage if it were to discharge. Always control the muzzle's direction based on the situation.
3. Always Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot
   When handling a firearm, rest your finger on the trigger guard or alongside the gun. Do not touch the trigger until you are ready to fire.
4. Always know what's beyond the target you are shooting at. At The Carry Guy Academy, “always know what’s beyond your target” means identifying what lies past your intended shot to prevent unintended harm. This critical safety rule ensures students assess their surroundings, avoiding collateral damage during training or real-world scenarios, keeping safety first in every shot.
5. Always Keep the Gun Unloaded Until Ready to Use
   Upon picking up a firearm, immediately engage the safety, if available. If the gun has a magazine, remove it before opening the action and checking the chamber to ensure it’s clear of ammunition. If you're unsure how to do this, do not attempt it; seek help from someone knowledgeable.

By following these rules, we can all enjoy firearms safely and responsibly.

When using or storing a gun, always follow these important rules:

1. Know Your Target and What’s Beyond It
   Identify your target clearly and be aware of the area beyond it. Never fire in a direction where there are people or potential hazards. Think first, shoot second.
2. Understand Safe Gun Operation
   Learn how your gun operates, including its basic parts and how to safely open and close the action. Remember, no mechanical safety device is foolproof.
3. Ensure the Gun is Safe to Operate
   Regular maintenance is essential for safe operation. Clean and store your gun properly. If there are doubts about its function, consult a knowledgeable gunsmith.
4. Use the Correct Ammunition
   Only use ammunition specifically designed for your firearm. The correct type is usually stamped on the barrel. Never fire a gun without knowing you have the right ammunition.
5. Wear Eye and Ear Protection
   Always use shooting glasses and hearing protectors to prevent injury from noise and debris.
6. Avoid Substances that Impair Judgment
   Do not consume alcohol or any substances that may impair your mental or physical abilities before or while handling firearms.
7. Store Guns Securely
   Store firearms in a way that prevents access by unauthorized individuals. Use appropriate locking devices, but remember that they should complement, not replace, safe handling practices.
8. Be Aware of Additional Safety Precautions
   Certain guns and activities require extra safety measures. Always stay informed.
9. Regularly Clean Your Gun
   Clean your firearm after each use and before taking it out of prolonged storage. Ensure it is unloaded before cleaning, and keep ammunition away from the cleaning area.

By adhering to these rules, you can help ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your friends while enjoying your Second Amendment rights.

We encourage everyone to find an NRA training course in your area to gain the knowledge needed for safe firearm operation. Visit NRAinstructors.org to find a course near you.