NRA's Complete Guide: 10 Rules for Safe Firearm Handling

The NRA's safety education extends well beyond the three fundamental rules. Their complete set of safe firearm handling guidelines covers every aspect of responsible gun ownership, from the range to your home. As a certified NRA instructor in Tallahassee, I teach all of these principles in every course because each one addresses a specific risk that has caused real-world accidents.

Know your target and what is beyond it. Before you pull the trigger, you must be absolutely certain of your target and aware of what lies behind and around it. Bullets can pass through targets, miss entirely, or ricochet. At the range, the backstop handles this. In a defensive situation, you must consider what is behind the threat — other family members, neighbors, or bystanders. This rule requires situational awareness that must be practiced constantly.

Know how to use your gun safely. Every firearm operates differently. Before firing any gun, read the owner's manual, understand how to load, unload, and clear it, and know how the safety mechanisms work. If you pick up an unfamiliar firearm, do not attempt to fire it until you have received proper instruction. Our basic firearms courses in Tallahassee cover the operation of the most common handgun platforms.

Be sure the gun is safe to operate. Regular maintenance and inspection are essential. Before each use, check for obstructions in the barrel, ensure the action operates smoothly, and verify that the ammunition you are using is the correct caliber for your firearm. Using the wrong ammunition can cause catastrophic failure. If your firearm malfunctions, keep it pointed in a safe direction, remove your finger from the trigger, and seek assistance from a qualified instructor or gunsmith.

Use only the correct ammunition. Every firearm is designed for a specific caliber or gauge, which is stamped on the barrel or slide. Using incorrect ammunition can destroy the firearm and cause serious injury. Never mix ammunition types, and always inspect each round before loading. Old, corroded, or damaged ammunition should be disposed of properly — never fired.

Wear appropriate eye and ear protection. The NRA mandates eye and ear protection for all shooters and spectators. Gunfire produces sound levels that cause immediate and permanent hearing damage. Flying brass, powder residue, and target fragments can injure unprotected eyes. Use quality earmuffs or plugs rated for firearms use, and wear impact-rated shooting glasses every time you are on the range. Additionally, wear closed-toe shoes and avoid low-cut shirts to prevent burns from hot spent brass. Never use alcohol or drugs before or during shooting, as impaired judgment is incompatible with firearm safety. Store your firearms securely when not in use, and learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of every firearm you own. Source: NRA Safety Rules — nra.org.