Firearms
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Load only one round into the firearm when teaching a novice to shoot.
If the novice loses control, drops the gun, or points it at you in excitement, the gun will be empty after firing.
- Especially true for handguns.
2 people, independently
Recognize that vehicles are dangerous weapons in road rage incidents because of their weight.
A car weighs 1.5-3 tonnes and can kill without a gun.
one person who lived it
Ensure your gun safe is fireproof.
Otherwise it is garbage.
one person who lived it
Demonstrate that dropping the magazine does not empty the firearm by chambering a round, removing the magazine, and firing downrange.
It guarantees the novice understands the gun is still loaded without the magazine.
one person who lived it
If you are the sole user of a defensive weapon and do not open carry, avoid displaying identifiable markings on it to prevent friends or family from recognizing it in public.
Preventing recognition ensures that no one can identify the weapon as yours if seen by others.
one person who lived it
Connect with experienced gun owners to share knowledge and gain training.
Gun owners are often friendly and love opportunities to pass on their experience and knowledge.
one person who lived it
Use electronic earmuffs at the range so you can hear commands while protecting your hearing.
Electronic earmuffs allow you to hear commands while protecting hearing.
one person who lived it
Monitor your child's social media usage and stay informed about what is happening in their lives.
It is a parental responsibility to be aware of a child's activities and circumstances.
one person who lived it
Practice handling your handguns regularly to avoid becoming unfamiliar with their mechanics.
Lack of practice can lead to total unfamiliarity with semi-automatic handguns when you next visit the range.
one person who lived it
3 more on this
Drive defensively by assuming other drivers may act aggressively or dangerously.
This approach holds true for safety.
one person who lived it
Place your concealed carry license over your driver's license when handing ID to police.
This prevents verbal misinterpretation and notifies them immediately.
one person who lived it
Store ammunition separately from firearms if children are in the household.
one person who lived it