Montana has a total of game land area that is equivalent to the area of some smaller states. As thousands of Montanans and many from other areas come here to hunt local wildlife with various types of firearms, rifle and handgun safety is more important in Big Sky Country than many other places.
What are some of the most common problems with firearms?
With stable manufactured ammunition, the chances of an accidental discharge are highest when a gun’s safety is off. People and even animals have inadvertently pulled a trigger when the safety is not engaged. Many people do not use their safety adequately while hunting.
How can hunters be safe when handling their firearms?
Assume all guns are loaded until it is confirmed they are not. Control the direction of the barrel, and never point at something a hunter would not shoot. Never shoot at hard or flat surfaces, and never shoot in the general direction of people or domestic animals.
What is the safest way to store firearms and ammunition?
Guns are best locked in a safe or drawer, and trigger locks are good supplemental device or way to guard guns in trucks or elsewhere in the open. Firearms and ammunition are best stored separately, especially if the location is not locked or hidden.
What if someone has been injured by a firearm?
Medical help is the first priority, and documentation is second. Gather all details of the incident and photograph weapons and damage if possible. Consider consulting with an attorney on the possibility of financial damages from people or companies at fault in a firearms-related injury.