Ranges

The Four Basic Rules of Firearm Safety

(first codified by Colonel Jeff Cooper* of the U.S. Marines and known through the shooting world, in order, as rules 1 -4)

1. Rule One: Always handle firearms as if they are loaded.
2. Rule Two: Never let the muzzle cross anything which you are not willing to destroy. (aka: “Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction.”
3. Rule 3: Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.
4. Rule 4: Always be sure of your target and what is beyond and around your target.

Other worthwhile firearm safety rules that don’t have official numbers:

• Make sure the barrel is clear of dirt and obstructions.
• Keep firearms inaccessible to unauthorized persons.
• Use ear and eye protection while shooting.
• Use safety glasses while cleaning your firearm (protects you from springs, solvents, etc.)

Colonel Jeff Cooper was the most influential person of the 20th Century in the development of modern firearms tactics and doctrine. He was the founder of Gunsite Academy, the most famous firearms training facility in the world. He was the father of the tactical shotgun and the scout rifle and his contributions are too numerous to list here.