It’s often said women are inherently safety conscious, although this can also apply to any responsible handgun owner in Texas. Even when there’s a natural predisposition to safety, it’s possible to overlook some very important safety guidelines. Below, the firearms education pros from Online Texas LTC, a premier provider of LTC online classes, present some basic handgun safety tips for women to keep in mind when handling or using a handgun.
Always Assume Your Handgun Is Loaded
Never assume a handgun isn’t loaded, even if you’re fairly certain it is. This is definitely something to keep in mind if someone hands you a gun, even if the individual assures you it’s not loaded. With any handgun you’re handling or transferring from one person to another, take the time to open and check the chamber and remove the magazine.
Don’t Point the Muzzle at Anything You’re Not Actively Firing At
Whether you’re practicing at the range or just cleaning your handgun, don’t point the muzzle at anything you’re not planning to fire at. Be just as cautious when placing your handgun in its holster. Look for holsters that remain stable and don’t collapse when the gun is withdrawn to further avoid the risk of negligent discharge.
Dry Fire Practice at Home
Dry firing simply means simulating the discharge of a firearm without any ammo. Doing this at home can give you some added confidence and skill with gun use and manipulation if you’re a fairly new handgun owner or an occasional handgun user. Dry firing also allows you to work on the following skills:
• Proper grip and trigger control
• Stance
• Sight picture and alignment
Know What’s Behind Your Target
In many instances, a bullet doesn’t stop just because it hits the intended target. Always be aware of what’s behind your target when you use your handgun, especially when practicing outside. In the event you have to use your handgun to mitigate an imminent threat, do your best to quickly size up the situation and determine what’s directly behind your target.
Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Fire
Because all the parts of your hand tend to naturally want to work together, it can be difficult to separate the act of pressing the trigger from gripping your handgun. However, you’ll be safer if you get into the habit of keeping your finger off the trigger as you grip your handgun until you’re absolutely sure you’re ready to fire. Go further and shift your finger from the trigger any time your sights are off the target.
Bonus tip: Practice placing your trigger finger along the frame as you prepare to fire to keep it off the trigger until you’re ready.
Regularly Clean & Inspect Your Handgun
Lastly, regularly clean and inspect your handgun. It’s important to do this to make sure the gun is free of any debris, isn’t clogged, and is working as intended. Inspecting your handgun regularly also gives you a chance to spot anything out of the ordinary that should be fixed before you use it again.
Whatever your reason for choosing to carry a firearm, it’s vital to know how to use it safely. Online Texas LTC is dedicated to providing the finest firearms training possible. Whether you want to take a Texas LTC class to get your carry permit or you simply want to learn how to handle a gun and shoot safely, Online Texas LTC has what you need. Give us a call today at 512-675-2124.
