Effective October 30, 2009, the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife changed their guidelines for distance learning. Students are now required to spend a minimum amount of time on each course page before proceeding to the certification exam.

Click here to go to the latest version of the Today's Hunter in Delaware online course—the official hunter education course of the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife.

The following course material is for reference only. Please go to the new course to complete your Delaware certification.

Safely Transporting Firearms

Transporting firearms involves both legal and safe practices. In addition to federal laws, there are regulations that vary from state to state.

General Rules

Always unload and case firearms before transporting them. In many states, this may be the law. The action should be open or the gun broken down, whichever makes the firearm safest if it’s mishandled.

Firearms should not be displayed in window gun racks because the display may provoke anti-hunter sentiment. It’s also an invitation to thieves.

Lean a firearm against a secure rest only. A vehicle does not provide a secure resting place. A gun that falls over might accidentally discharge or be damaged.

Typical Gun Cases

Padded, soft-sided case

Material: Canvas, nylon, neoprene, polyester, or leather

Padded, soft-sided gun cases

Advantages:

Light, easy to handle and store
Many designs accommodate scoped rifles
Offered in camouflage
Waterproof and floating cases available for duck hunters
Less costly than hard cases

Disadvantage:

Less protection than hard-sided cases

Lockable, hard-sided case

Material: Aluminum or composite

Lockable, hard-sided gun cases

Advantages:

Lightweight but sturdy
Meets airline standards
Can include deep foam padding that holds firearm in place and cushions impact
Composite models can be molded to fit firearm
Available in waterproof models

Disadvantage:

Bulkier and costlier than soft-sided cases

Gun sock

Material: Durable stretch fabric (polyester/acrylic) or soft pile materials

Advantages:

Lightweight protection from dust, dirt, and moisture
Offered in camouflage
Often used as a second case to carry a firearm from a vehicle into a hunting area

Disadvantage:

Minimal protection from elements or impact