Health & Safety
Shooting is a sport with a high risk potential. You need to be physically and mentally competent and capable of safely controlling your firearm. Good eyesight is also important because you must be able to identify your target beyond all doubt and shoot with accuracy. Even colour blindness can cause problems so if you have any doubts, visit an eye specialist.
Wearing safety glasses will protect your eyes. You can protect your hearing with proper muffs or earplugs. This is particularly important at a firing range where others are firing alongside you.
All firearms users should have first aid skills. You may be the first to arrive at a shooting incident scene so you need to be prepared. Knowing what to do in this situation could prevent further injury and possibly save a life
Crossing fences
If there is a gate - use it! Never climb a fence while carrying a firearm. Carrying loaded firearms through fences and over obstacles can cause injury and death.
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If two or more people: One should climb over the fence without a firearm. Then, pass the unloaded firearms across with the actions open, and pointed in a safe direction.
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If you are on your own: Unload the firearm and place it, muzzle first, through the fence. Lay the firearm on the ground, and then climb over the fence.
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Electric fences: Take special care when crossing electric fences. Have your firearm unloaded and the action open before you get near the fence. An electric shock can cause your muscles to contract and your hands to clench.
- The Arms Code
Arms Code info
View here an article on the Arms Code written by MSC Firearms Programme manager Mike Spray for NZ Hunting and Wildlife. All hunters should know the Arms Code well, and conform with all parts of it at all times. The Arms Code is available for free download from http://www.police.govt.nz/service/firearms/arms-code.pdf
Chamber Safety Device (CSDs)
View here an article on chamber safety devices which are produced by MSC. CSDs are inserted into the chamber of a firearm which then clearly demonstrates that it is free of live ammunition.
Article written by MSC Firearms Programme manager Mike Spray for NZ Hunting and Wildlife.
A pack of five (5) CSDs is available from our online store here
Where to get futher help:
With all firearms pursuits there is a good case in favour of getting involved with an appropriate club. Whether your interest is in collecting firearms, in target shooting, in hunting or in collecting antique firearms, it will be to your advantage to belong to a club catering for your particular interest. The members of these clubs are enthusiasts who can pass on valuable information.
The Police Arms Officer or the Mountain Safety Council, or local firearms dealers, can give you lists of clubs in all the firearms pursuits.
Another source of valuable information, advice and practical help is a qualified gunsmith. Even when brand new your firearm may need telescopic sights or other modifications.
For a list of contacts see our Get Outdoors
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