Handgun Safety 101: How To Operate a Handgun
Treat all guns as if they are loaded
Handgun safety is something that every gun owner should take seriously. Treating all guns as if they are loaded is one of the most important rules of gun safety. This rule applies to both revolvers and pistols. It is important to always assume that a gun is loaded, even if you know for sure that it is not.
If you are not sure whether or not a gun is loaded, always check the chamber and magazine. If there is any doubt, do not handle the gun. Only handle a gun if you are certain that it is unloaded. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution.
Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction
One of the most important is to always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. This means that the gun should never be pointing at anything you don’t intend to shoot. A gun that is not pointed in a safe direction can easily be knocked over or bumped, causing it to discharge and injure someone. Never point a gun at someone, including yourself, unless you intend to shoot. Finally, never pull the trigger unless your sights are on a target.
Keep fingers off the trigger until you are ready to fire
One of the most important handgun safety rules is to keep your finger off the trigger until you are aiming at a target and ready to fire. When your finger is on the trigger, there is a significant risk that you could accidentally discharge the weapon, which could lead to serious injury or even death.
By keeping your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot, you can help to prevent an accidental discharge. Additionally, it is important to make sure that your handgun is properly holstered when not in use. If your handgun is not properly secured, there is a risk that it could be discharged unintentionally. By following these simple safety rules, you can help to prevent accidents and keep yourself and others safe.
Be sure of your target and anything beyond it
When handling a handgun, always be sure of your target and anything beyond it. This means being aware of your surroundings and knowing what is behind your target. A bullet can travel through or ricochet off surfaces, so it is important to consider what might be behind your target before taking a shot.
Be sure to always keep the safety on until you are ready to fire. Treat every gun as if it is loaded, even if you know it isn’t. Never point the gun at anything you aren’t willing to shoot. These are just a few basic handgun safety rules that should always be followed.
Know how to properly load and unload the gun
Being confident in knowing how to load and unload your gun is crucial to your safety and those around you.
First, make sure your gun is NOT loaded before loading a new magazine. Check the chamber and magazine to make sure there are no rounds present. Next, load the gun slowly and carefully, making sure to insert each round into the chamber correctly. Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot.
There are couple ways to unload depending on your handgun. Most commonly, your handgun will have a magazine button that you will push to release the magazine. Push this button slowly, making sure your gun is still pointed down and away from you or others. Once the magazine is released, check the chamber to ensure there is not a round loaded!
Are you ready to be a handgun expert?
Here at Buck & Does, we know the importance of gun safety. We offer private lessons and handgun classes that aim to make you comfortable behind a gun of any sort. Book a lesson here!
A Texas LTC Comes With Personal Responsibility
A couple of years ago I was pulled over by a county sheriff’s deputy just off IH-35 down around Lytle for “rolling through a stop sign”. Yes, I was guilty and paid the fine. No argument there. He asked for my ID, and I gave him my driver’s license, insurance card, and my License to Carry.
Before he could look at it, I politely stated that I was not carrying, nor did I have a firearm in the vehicle. I thought my response would be welcomed and put him at ease. Surprisingly, I evoked an entirely different response. For the next 10 minutes, I received a “lecture” on the importance of having an LTC, training, training, training, and always concealed carry when legal.
He stated that statistically, law enforcement cannot help victims in a timely manner, and they expect our help if they are in trouble themselves. He referred to several statistics and percentages pertaining to Texas LTC whereby the odds of someone being in the area with a concealed carry permit holder are good.
I drove away with a new take on carrying a firearm. If you have an LTC, you have voluntarily / involuntarily obligated yourself to practicing often and always carrying your firearm when legal. I also gathered from his “lecture”, if you choose to carry and not practice, please let your Texas LTC status expire.
No one needs your help if you have not stayed current with shooting classes, self-defense classes, and practice (he referred to it as being a liability on the scene). I made a choice that evening to always carry, when legal, and practice at least two to three times per month and have been doing so for 2 ½ years.
ABOUT REX MAJORS
The love Rex Majors has for the outdoors began with his twin brother Russ, when at the young age of three they were found fishing in the water meter box outside their home in Oklahoma. Rex’s passion and genuine love for outdoor sports has only deepened over the past 50 years.
Rex spent a few years in the corporate world before becoming a small business owner, working side by side with his wife of 26 years. His experience includes management positions at Academy Sports & Outdoors, as well as the convenience store and retail gas industry.
In 2015, he had the opportunity to chase his dream of owning and operating a sporting goods retail store. The Rex Majors family and the Rick Grayson family partnered up to create and build Buck & Doe’s Mercantile for the purpose of sharing their passion for shooting sports with other families here in San Antonio, Texas.
He and his wife Jennifer raised their three kids around shooting sports, hunting, fishing, and camping. When his family gathers for the holidays, you can usually find them competing in one of the ranges at Buck & Doe’s Mercantile or out shooting sporting clays at one of the several locations around San Antonio.
Why You Should Get Your License To Carry
Owning and carrying a firearm can provide you with a sense of safety and security
Although some people may feel uneasy about the idea of owning a firearm, there are many benefits to carrying one. First and foremost, having a firearm gives you a sense of safety and security. If you find yourself in a dangerous situation, you will have the ability to defend yourself and your loved ones.
Additionally, if you obtain a Texas license to carry permit, you will be able to lawfully carry your handgun with you wherever you go. This can provide an extra layer of protection when you are out and about, especially in unfamiliar or dangerous areas. Ultimately, owning and carrying a firearm is a personal decision, but for many people, it is an incredibly empowering choice.
A license to carry allows you to protect yourself and your loved one
A license to carry permit gives you the ability to protect yourself and your loved ones in the event of an emergency. It provides you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have the training and resources to defend yourself against an attacker.
In addition, a Texas license to carry permit ensures that you can always have a gun with you, where legally allowed, providing a level of protection that is not possible with other methods of self-defense. Carrying a gun on you also offers the potential to deter an attacker. For these reasons, a handgun license is an important tool for keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.
Training is available so you feel prepared and comfortable
Most people who carry a gun for self-defense will never have to use it. But the time may come when you must defend yourself or your family with lethal force. The first step in being prepared for that possibility is to get a license to carry.
You also need to receive training so that you feel confident and comfortable using your firearm in a self-defense situation. Thankfully, there are plenty of training courses available when it comes to handgun safety.
You can take classes at a local shooting range, participate in online courses, or even hire a personal instructor. Whichever route you choose, make sure you put in the time and effort to learn proper gun safety and self-defense techniques.
It’s important to be familiar with the laws in your state related to firearms and self defense
In the state of Texas, it is legal to openly carry a handgun. However, there are some restrictions on where firearms can be carried, such as in schools and government buildings. It is also important to note that the law regarding the use of deadly force in self-defense situations can vary from state to state.
In Texas, an individual is allowed to use deadly force in self-defense if they believe their life is in danger, but other states have different standards. As a gun owner, it’s important to be familiar with the laws in your state before carrying a firearm.
How to get your license to carry
A license to carry (LTC) is required for concealed carry a handgun in Texas. A Texas LTC also allows you to conceal carry in reciprocating states as you travel. The process of getting your LTC can seem daunting, but it’s relatively simple if you meet the requirements and follow the steps.
To be eligible for an LTC in Texas, you must be 21 years of age or older, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and not ineligible to possess a firearm under state or federal law. You must also have completed a firearms training course that is approved by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Once you have completed the training course and gathered all the required documents, you will need to submit an application to DPS.
Buck & Doe’s offers private lessons and LTC classes with trusted LTC instructors. In addition to offering in-person LTC classes, here is a reputable website for an online LTC course.
Can You Rent Guns At A Range?
Yes, you can rent guns at a range
If you’re new to guns and shooting, or even if you’re an experienced shooter, you may be wondering if you can rent guns at a shooting range. The answer is yes! Most ranges will have a great selection of handguns and rifles that you can rent by the hour or day. This is a great way to try out different types of guns before you buy one, or to simply practice your shooting without having to lug around your own equipment. Before heading to the range, be sure to call ahead or check the website to see what kinds of rentals are available.
There are a few things you need to know before renting a gun
There are a few things you need to know before renting a gun. First, make sure you know the laws in your state. Some states have stricter regulations than others when it comes to renting firearms. Second, be familiar with the range’s policies on gun rental.
Every range has its own policies, so be sure to read them carefully before signing anything. Once you know the laws and policies, renting a gun is easy!
Ranges typically have a wide variety of guns available for rent
Ranges typically have a variety of guns available for rent, from pistols to rifles to machine guns. Most ranges have a variety of guns available for rent, so you can try out different calibers and styles before deciding what you want to buy. This gives you a chance to try out different types of firearms and find the one that’s right for you.
You’ll need to provide ID and sign a waiver before renting a gun
Be sure to bring your ID and sign the waiver before renting a gun. Most ranges will require you to be at least 18 years old or accompanied by a parent, but some may have a higher age requirement. always read the range’s policies carefully before you go.
A good range will have staff on hand to help you select the right gun and teach you how to use it safely
A good gun range will have staff on hand to help you select the right gun and teach you how to properly use it. They will also be able to answer any questions you may have about guns and shooting. This is important, as it can help you stay safe while enjoying your time at the range.
They’ll also be able to answer any questions you have about the firearm rental process. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the range’s policies before you go, so you know what’s expected of you.
Ready to try out a new experience?
Renting a gun is easy and can be a lot of fun. Just make sure you take the time to learn about the different types of guns available and what each one can do. Ask the range safety officer at your local range or gun shop for help in selecting the right firearm for your needs.
Most importantly, always remember to handle firearms safely and responsibly. Reserve a lane now and have fun shooting!