Hunter Tip: Load Your Firearm Correctly

Loading your firearm is not something you want to do wrong. Do you know all the steps? Watch the video for a quick refresher!

Here’s the rundown:

1. Always treat your firearm as if it’s loaded, and point the muzzle in a safe direction.
2. If your firearm has a safety, turn it to the safe position.
3. Inspect the barrel for any obstructions.
4. Load the right gauge or caliber ammunition for your gun.
5. Close the action and activate the safety if you were not able to previously.
6. Then, enjoy your hunt!

It’s important that you never even carry the wrong ammunition, as you could accidentally put the wrong ammunition in your firearm, causing a dangerous (and possibly deadly!) obstruction. For example, a 20-gauge shotshell will fit into a 12-gauge shotgun, and then become stuck in the barrel. If you then tried to put a 12-gauge shotshell in your shotgun and fired it, your shotgun could explode, causing serious injury to you and any hunting partners.