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Safety Guidelines

Safety is the responsibility of every firearms owner. Follow these guidelines at all times.

The Four Cardinal Rules of Firearms Safety

  1. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Always assume a firearm is loaded, even if you believe it is unloaded. Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
  2. Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot. Maintain muzzle awareness at all times. Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction.
  3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target. Your finger should rest along the frame or slide until you are ready to fire.
  4. Be certain of your target and what is beyond it. Identify your target, what is in front of it, and what is behind it. Bullets can pass through targets and travel considerable distances.

Safe Handling

  • Always handle firearms in a well-lit, ventilated area.
  • Never handle firearms under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that may impair judgment.
  • Always wear appropriate eye and ear protection when shooting.
  • Ensure the firearm is unloaded when cleaning or performing maintenance.
  • Never attempt to catch a falling firearm.
  • Report any malfunction immediately and keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction.

Safe Storage

Proper storage is a legal requirement in most EU jurisdictions and essential for preventing accidents and theft:

  • Store all firearms in a locked safe or cabinet designed for firearms storage.
  • Store ammunition separately from firearms, in a locked container.
  • Store the bolt or action separately from the firearm when possible.
  • Keep storage keys or combinations secure and away from unauthorized persons.
  • Ensure firearms are not accessible to minors, untrained persons, or unauthorized individuals.
  • Check your national and local regulations for specific storage requirements — they vary between EU countries.

Transport Regulations

Transporting firearms across Europe is regulated by both EU and national law:

  • Always transport firearms unloaded and unloaded.
  • Store firearms in a locked case or secure compartment during transport.
  • Keep ammunition separate from firearms during transport.
  • Carry your firearms license, purchase permit, or European Firearms Pass (EFP) at all times.
  • When transporting firearms across EU borders, ensure you have the European Firearms Pass and comply with both countries' regulations.
  • Declare firearms at border crossings where required.
  • Check the specific transport regulations of each country you plan to travel through.

Range Safety Rules

  • Follow all range officer instructions immediately.
  • Only load firearms on the firing line when the range is hot.
  • Never handle firearms when anyone is downrange.
  • Place firearms on the bench with the action open when not actively shooting.
  • Only handle ammunition appropriate for the caliber of your firearm.
  • Clean up all spent casings and packaging.

Emergency Contacts

European Emergency Number: 112 (all EU countries)

Report unsafe activity on BGUN: safety@bgun.eu

Report illegal firearms activity: Contact your local police or gendarmerie