Safety Tips Guide: Essential AR-15 Safety Practices
Introduction
Owning an AR-15 rifle comes with great responsibility. At Motion Guard Arms, we’re committed to helping you maintain the highest safety standards, whether you’re at home, on the range, or in the field. Use this guide to enhance your safety practices and protect what matters most.
1. The Foundation of Firearm Safety
Always follow these core rules:
- Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to fire.
- Never point the rifle at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
- Be certain of your target, as well as what’s beyond and around it.
2. Home Safety Precautions for AR-15s
To prevent unauthorized access, always secure your AR-15 in a safe location. Here’s how:
- Store it unloaded: Keep the chamber empty and the magazine removed when not in use.
- Use a trigger lock or SafetyPin: Mechanical safety tools like SafetyPin add an extra layer of protection against accidental discharges.
- Separate ammo and firearm: Store ammunition separately, particularly if children or untrained individuals are present.
3. Proper Handling and Transportation
Transporting an AR-15 requires attention to legality and security.
- Keep it unloaded: Always unload your rifle when transporting, with the magazine removed.
- Invest in a quality case: A secure, lockable case is essential for safe and legal transportation.
- Check local laws: Know the laws in your area and where you’re traveling; compliance is crucial.
4. Routine Maintenance and Inspection
An AR-15 requires regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure safe operation.
- Inspect before and after use: Look for any loose or worn parts, especially in the firing mechanism and sights.
- Clean regularly: Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning to prevent malfunctions.
- Use quality parts: Replace worn parts only with high-quality, manufacturer-approved components to maintain the rifle’s integrity.
5. Training and Practice
To improve handling safety and accuracy, invest in training:
- Attend a firearm safety course: Courses designed for AR-15 owners cover specifics of handling, maintenance, and storage.
- Practice regularly: The more familiar you are with your rifle, the safer and more effective you’ll be in handling it.
- Know your equipment: Get comfortable with your rifle’s features, including the safety switch, magazine release, and bolt catch.
6. Situational Awareness at the Range
Range safety requires clear focus and respect for everyone present.
- Follow range rules: Ranges have specific rules in place to maintain safety.
- Communicate: If shooting with others, communicate openly to avoid accidents.
- Keep your finger off the trigger: Until you’re aiming at a target and ready to fire, maintain trigger discipline.
7. Emergency Preparedness
Knowing what to do in case of a malfunction can prevent accidents.
- Recognize a misfire: Wait several seconds before clearing a misfire to prevent delayed firing.
- Handle jams safely: Clear jams with caution, keeping the rifle pointed in a safe direction.
- Seek professional help if needed: If you encounter a persistent issue, consult a gunsmith.
Conclusion
By integrating these safety tips into your routine, you help protect yourself and those around you. As part of Motion Guard Arms, we’re proud to support responsible ownership with products like the SafetyPin, offering an additional layer of security for AR-15 owners.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with responsible firearm practices.
