Please Remove Your Finger

I have noticed a large number of pictures lately on social networks that involve people holding a gun with their finger on the trigger.  Some people in what I can only assume is an attempt to look tough even point the gun directly at the camera.  I keep waiting to see a news headline about someone shooting a friend in the head while trying to take a picture for a facebook avi.

There are 4 basic rules for handling a firearm.  Most of us know them but a few people act as if they have no clue, so.. I am compelled to share Jake’s 4 basic rules to use in any situation when handling a firearm.

Rule #1: Always treat the firearm as if it were loaded.

Treat every firearm as if were loaded every time you handle it.  Even when you are 110% positive that all rounds have been removed, you STILL treat it as if it were LOADED!  Any time you hear of an accidental shooting, what is the first thing the person holding the firearm says?  “I didn’t think it was loaded.” 

Rule #2: Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

Do not point the muzzle of a firearm at anything that you are not willing to destroy.  This includes cameras and other picture taking devices.  It doesn’t look cool to have a picture of yourself pointing a firearm at a camera, it looks FOOLISH. 

Rule #3: Keep your finger off the trigger.

You should NEVER have your finger on the trigger until you are ready to discharge the firearm.  Another way to put is it this: Keep your booger hook off the “go bang” switch.  Simple enough!!!  Even in PICTURES!!!

Rule #4: Know your target

Know your target AND what is beyond it.  Do not assume anything.  Do not discharge your firearm until you have positively identified the intended target.  That rustling in the bushes that you believe to be a deer may very well be a person walking their dog.

Now I may have over simplified these rules, but they are the BARE MINIMUM expectation when handling a firearm.  It is your responsibility to handle your firearm in a safe manner EVERY TIME you pick it up.  Even when taking pictures.  Every picture I see where a person in pointing the gun at the camera makes me want to yell at the person in the picture…Hey… you’re not a bad ass.. you’re a dumb ass. And the fact that you now have a picture of you pointing a gun at a camera with your finger on the trigger should be a constant reminder.

Please handle firearms responsibly.