As you know, gun ownership is a privilege that also comes with a lot of responsibility. The right to bear arms and protect ourselves and our families is sacred, and it’s something we take very seriously here at Muzlstik.
You’re probably already aware of the 10 “Golden Rules” of firearm safety—things like ALWAYS using brightly colored chamber flags and ALWAYS keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the other mistakes that new gun owners make, and how you can prevent an unnecessary tragedy by educating yourself and others.
Mistake 1: Storing and holstering the firearm improperly.
It’s extremely risky to store your guns in a car, out in the open or any place where they are accessible by the wrong people. Your best bet is to keep guns locked in a safe, or at the very least, hidden out of sight. For those who own guns for self defense, there are a range of Gunvaults and other products on the market that keep guns secure while not in use, but easily accessible if there comes a time you need them.
When it comes to holstering your firearm, it’s important to make sure your holster is designed for your specific make, model and caliber. Avoid cheaply made holsters, and NEVER holster your gun in the waistband of your pants.
Mistake 2: Skipping the essential safety check.
It should be obvious, but many new gun owners simply lack the experience to know that they should ALWAYS check the chamber or cylinder to confirm their firearm isn’t loaded.
Our wide range of chamber safety flags can help make this a lot simpler. But even if you’re using flags, and even if someone hands you a firearm they claim to have checked, don’t take their word for it. Only you can avoid unnecessary tragedy by taking the right steps to making it a habit to confirm your gun’s status every single time you use it.
Mistake 3: Failing to research firearm laws in your location.
It’s the responsibility of every gun owner to know all relevant local, state and federal gun laws—for example, whether or not you live in a “stand your ground” state. If you plan to conceal/carry, research the necessary steps to obtain a concealed carry license. It’s also essential to know how many and what type of firearms you’re allowed to own in your state, as well as any restrictions on magazine capacity.
Failing to understand the laws that are applicable to you could result in heavy fines or worse. But the good news is that groups like the NRA make it very easy to research gun laws by state.
Mistake 4: Not cleaning your gun between uses.
Every time you discharge your firearm, residual lubricant, dirt, dust and debris from the bullet and burned gunpowder collects in the barrel and internal mechanisms. As you continue applying oil and lubricant, this residue thickens and over time can result in costly damage to the gun, decreased precision, or even cause the gun to misfire.
That’s why it’s important to clean and maintain all your firearms using a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. For many gun owners, cleaning a firearm is a relaxing and reassuring process that gives them peace of mind knowing their gun will operate in tip-top shape if and when they need to use it.
Mistake 5: Not being properly trained.
For a new shooter, it can be hard to contain your excitement. Your impulse will be to start shooting right away, before getting the necessary training—but that’s a huge mistake! How can you be expected to use a firearm correctly if you don’t have practice?
Do yourself a favor and connect with a firearms instructor or gun range professional. They can teach you the proper ways to practice, shoot, transport and store your firearm. If you need help connecting with shooter education, contact us here!
