Question

The safety on a firearm should be used _____.

1) As a primary safety measure
2) Only when cleaning a firearm
3) Only when the firearm is in storage
4) As an additional safety measure

Answer 1

The safety on a firearm should be used as an additional safety measure to prevent accidental discharge.

Step-by-step explanation:

The safety on a firearm should be used as an additional safety measure. While the primary safety measure is always proper handling and storage of firearms, utilizing the safety is an extra precaution to prevent accidental discharge. By engaging the safety, the likelihood of an unintended firing of the firearm is reduced, especially in situations where the firearm may be dropped or mishandled.

Answer 2

The safety on a firearm should be used as an additional safety measure, complementing other firearm handling practices, and not as the primary safety mechanism.

Step-by-step explanation:

The safety on a firearm is a crucial feature that acts as a mechanical device to help prevent the accidental discharge of the firearm. It should be regarded as an additional safety measure, complementing other safe handling practices rather than replacing them.

Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded, keep it pointed in a safe direction, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and be aware of your target and what is beyond it. The use of a safety is important in the context of responsible gun ownership, which balances an individual's interest in self-protection, sporting pleasure, or hunting with society's interest in reducing injuries and deaths from firearms.