# Basic gun safety

While gun safety isn't hard to understand, it *should* be common sense, but some people make even *understanding* guns into a [political](politics-conservativeliberal.md).

With that said, here are the basics.

## Storage

Keep the ammo in a dry, cool place.

- It needs to be dry for functionality reasons, not safety.
- However, a very hot case of ammo could theoretically discharge.

Unless you have a specific use for the gun (e.g., expecting self-defense), keep the gun unloaded at all times until you're using it.

Store the ammo and gun separately unless you have a rapid need for it.

Keep the gun in a locked container unless you have a rapid need for it.

If transporting ammo, make sure it's secured so it doesn't bounce freely.

## Handling guns

Always keep the gun pointed where discharging it will not harm anyone or damage anything significant.

- The easiest and most effective way to do this is to always point it downward.

Unless the gun is disassembled, *never* look down its barrel.

- Instead, look inside the chamber to inspect it for ammunition.

To unload a gun of all ammunition:

1. Pull the clip out.
2. Inspect the chamber for a prepared round.

Always keep the safety on until you're ready to fire it.

Keep the gun cleaned, especially the barrel.

- A misfire can be inconvenient, but any obstructions in the barrel may cause the barrel to break and send shrapnel flying.

## Lawful gun use

Research exactly how you're lawfully permitted to carry guns.

- At one time, freely carrying a gun was considered standard [personal security](safety-security.md), but is now [taboo](morality-taboo.md) in most of the West.