Browning A-Bolt Shotgun Owners Manual - Page 5

Remember, safe gun handling does not stop with your firearm's mechanical "safety" devices, it starts there. Always treat this firearm with the respect due a loaded, ready-to-fire firearm. Some firearms do not have a mechanical "safety." Many target firearms, lever-action firearms and pistols do not have manual "safety" mechanisms. Therefore it is critical to read and understand the owner's manual for every firearm which explains the safe operation of the firearm. While it is a good idea to "test" your firearm's mechanical "safety" periodically for proper function, never test the "safety" while your firearm is loaded or pointed in an unsafe direction. 3 Whenever you handle any firearm, or hand it to someone, always open the action immediately and visually check the firearm's chamber to Make certain that the firearm is completely unloaded. Make certain the firearm does not inadvertently contain any ammunition. Remember, merely removing the magazine does not mean the chamber is unloaded. Always keep the chamber empty and the "safety" in the on safe position unless shooting is imminent. 4 Always WEAR Ear AND Eye PROTECTION WHEN SHOOTING. Unprotected, repeated exposure to gunfire can cause hearing damage. Wear hearing protection (shooting ear plugs or muffs) to guard against such damage. Wear shooting glasses to protect your eyes from flying particles. Allow proper distance (eye relief) between a scope and your eye when firing a scoped rifle, shotgun or pistol. Do not use unorthodox shooting methods that could cause the rearward travel of the slide or bolt of a firearm to contact your eyes, face or hands. Always keep a safe distance between the muzzle of your firearm and any persons nearby, as muzzle blast, debris and ejecting shells could inflict serious injury. 3