10 Commandment of Gun Safety

Getting Started Trapshooting

The Ten Commandments of Gun Safety. Please read them they are listed on the bottom of this web page. These are not the only rules but it's a good start and never forget to use common sense.

The ATA (Amateur Trapshooters Association) is one of the controlling sources for the rules set for trapshooting. Click on the ATA link above to see there rules.

One of the great parts of shooting is all of the friendly people that I have meet over the last 4 1/2 years. Everyone has helped me in so many ways, from teaching me about gun safety, reloading shot shells, and the list goes on. You can get started is by going to a Trapshooting Club in your area. Ask them what you need get started. At most clubs, they will take you off to the side and show you the important aspects that you will need to be safe, hit targets, and have fun.

The NRA, has excellent gun safety courses taught by qualified experts. The DNR in all states have great Hunter Safety Courses. Both of these classes are quite important for everyone. Many states require Hunter Safety Courses for anyone to hunt in that state.

Once you get started in the Shooting Sports joining different organizations like the NRA (National Rifle Association) and the ATA (Amateur TrapShooters Association) are very important to the shooting sports. Also the NSSF has a program just for young adults it's the Scholastic Clay Target Program this program is competition shooting, with different age groups competing against each other as teams.

Be Safe and Have Fun !! That's what's its all about.

Teach young people about the shooting sports, for we are the next generation to carry on shooting traditions. I remember every hunting trip that I went on, and I promise to help others when I get older. If there is a young trapshooter that can use your help, JUST DO IT, if you don't I can always use financial assistance to keep on shooting 4 times a week.

Guns are not toys, they must be handled properly.
NEVER handle a gun without adult supervision.
NEVER let anyone you are with mix alcohol, or drugs and guns.
Children that have toy guns should also be taught not to point them at people.
Always lock firearms and ammunition in a safe away from children.
Also ALWAYS follow these IMPORTANT safety rules:

The Ten Commandments of Gun Safety:

1. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
2. Guns should be unloaded when not actually in use.
3. Don't rely on your gun's "safety". Treat every gun as if it can fire at any time.
4. Be sure of your target and what's beyond it. Once you pull the trigger you can't stop it
5. Always Use correct ammunition.
6. If your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, HANDLE WITH CARE. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and get adult help.
7. Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting.
8. Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before shooting.
9. Don't alter or modify your gun, and DO have your gun serviced regularly.
10. Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the firearm you are using.
    

Firearm Cleaning:
Regular cleaning is important in order for your gun to operate correctly and safely. Taking proper care of it will also maintain its value and extend its life. Your gun should be cleaned every time that it is used.

A gun brought out of prolonged storage should also be cleaned before shooting. Accumulated moisture and dirt, or solidified grease and oil, can prevent the gun from operating properly.

Before cleaning your gun, make absolutely sure that it is unloaded. The gun's action should be open during the cleaning process. Also, be sure that no ammunition is present in the cleaning area.