• @shalafi
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      1011 months ago

      Do so now before prices spike. Keep in mind, there is a high learning curve with firearms. Even the simple safety rules require practice to make them unbreakable habits.

      • @FontMasterFlex
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        611 months ago

        There are 4 safety rules that if you follow you will never have an issue. If you can’t follow these 4 simple rules, maybe rethink having a firearm.

        1. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. …

        2. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. …

        3. Be certain of your target and what’s beyond it. …

        4. Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.

        • @shalafi
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          111 months ago

          I’ll add this, as simple as those rules are, they require practice. #1 is a great example. You want your actions to be habits, unbreakable.

          Couple more rules at my camp when other people are around.

          • Everyone must be present and accounted for.
          • Make eye contact with each person so they know you’re about to fire. No surprises.
          • Be certain each person in the group has their ears on. No surprise hearing loss.
          • While you’re looking around, be certain no one else is handling a firearm foolishly. Reloading is fine.

          It’s a bit of a PITA playing range safety officer. I mostly like shooting alone. :)

          • @FontMasterFlex
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            111 months ago

            How does it take practice to treat something with respect? All 4 of the rules I mentioned are time tested and industry standard. I was an NRA instructor for a number of years. There’s a reason these 4 rules are drilled into everyone’s head. Again, if you can’t read, understand, and follow those 4 incredibly simple things, you’re not mature enough, responsible enough, or ready to have a firearm. It’s quite simple.

            • @shalafi
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              211 months ago

              There’s a reason these 4 rules are drilled into everyone’s head.

              To make them habits? Sounds like we agree. Talking about the rules is one thing. People practicing those rules under supervision is where we get results.

              As an instructor, I know damn well you had to correct people from time to time. I’ve done it. That means our students were practicing, getting better.

              I can teach my 8 and 10-yo kids the rules, get them to regurgitate them to me. But until we get on the range, I know one of 'em is going to try to flag me. Again, practice.

              and follow those 4 incredibly simple things

              LOL, that’s why I don’t go to a range anymore. Mine was private, only $150/yr., and no one acted foolish. But still, I want to relax and not have my head on a swivel.