New gun owner looking for information? You’re in the right place! Whether you're a new gun owner, acquiring a firearm for self-defense, sport shooting, or hunting, or an experienced gun owner looking to refresh your knowledge or share it with others, understanding and responsibility are key. As you explore or revisit firearms ownership, it's crucial to equip yourself with knowledge that ensures safety, legality, and enjoyment. Here are ten essential tips to help every gun owner navigate this responsibility confidently.

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Always be sure to fully read and understand the owner’s manual that was supplied with your firearm.  It will outline the safe operation and handling of your specific model firearm.  If you ever have any questions on the safe operation of your Savage Arms firearm, contact Savage Arms.  Further education and training is also available through many national firearm organizations.  Always be sure to follow all local, state and federal laws while shooting, hunting, handling or storing firearms.

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1. Gun Safety Rules

Gun safety is paramount to prevent accidents and ensure responsible handling. There are four fundamental rules to follow:

1. Treat Every Gun as Loaded: Always assume a gun is loaded, regardless of what you think or have been told. This mindset encourages cautious behavior and helps to prevent negligent discharges.
2. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot: Your finger should rest alongside the gun, outside the trigger guard, until you have positively identified your target and are ready to fire. 
3. Never Point a Gun at Anything You Do Not Intend to Shoot: Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. This principle, known as muzzle discipline, ensures that no harm or damage occurs unintentionally. Always be conscious of where your gun's muzzle is pointing.
4. Be Sure of Your Target and What Is Beyond It: Identifying your target, as well as what lies in front of and behind it, is crucial to avoid unintended harm. Bullets can travel through targets and strike objects or people behind them.

Additional best practices include securing firearms in a safe when not in use, using proper holsters, and regularly inspecting and maintaining guns. Taking gun safety courses and staying informed about laws and regulations further promotes responsible gun ownership. Following these guidelines helps ensure that firearms are used safely and responsibly, protecting both the user and those around them.

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2. Safe Firearm Storage

Safe gun storage is crucial for preventing unauthorized access, especially by children or unauthorized persons, and ensuring the security of firearms. There are several methods and best practices for gun owners to consider:

• Use a Gun Safe or Lockbox: A gun safe provides a secure and tamper-resistant environment for firearms. High-quality safes are often fireproof and equipped with complex locking mechanisms. For quick access, a biometric lockbox can be an effective option, allowing rapid opening with fingerprint recognition.
• Trigger and Cable Locks: These devices prevent the gun from being loaded or fired. They are useful additional security measures, especially when combined with a gun safe. Trigger locks fit directly over the trigger, while cable locks run through the barrel or action to block the operation. Get a free safety kit from Project ChildSafe.
• Store Ammunition Separately: Keeping ammunition in a separate, locked location from the firearms adds an extra layer of safety. This practice can reduce the risk of negligent shootings and unauthorized use.
• Consider the Environment: Store firearms in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. Desiccants or dehumidifiers can be used within safes to control moisture. 
• Educate Family Members: Ensure that everyone in the household, particularly children, understands the dangers of firearms and the importance of not touching them. Regular discussions about gun safety can reinforce these principles.
• Regular Inspections: Periodically check the condition of your firearms and their storage environment to ensure ongoing security and functionality.

Image courtesy of NSSF.

The NSSF offers a wealth of information on gun ownership, firearm safety, including storage tips and guidelines. Their Project ChildSafe initiative provides free gun locks and educational materials to promote safe gun storage.

Read: Safe Gun Storage - Tips for Responsible Firearm Ownership

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3. How to Warranty Register Your Firearm

Warranty registering a firearm is essential for ensuring access to manufacturer support and repairs. It provides proof of ownership and ensures you receive important safety updates or recalls, enhancing both the firearm’s longevity and your safety. 

When your warranty register your Savage firearm, you also get access to a one-time 10% discount on our online store to pick up new Savage swag or accessories. We’ve also partnered with OnX to give gun owners who warranty register their Savage firearm a free 3-month trial of OnX Premium with detailed land information to plan your next hunt. 

For more information on the Savage warranty, please visit: https://savagearms.com/content?p=warranty 

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4. Basic Cleaning and Care

Basic gun cleaning is essential for gun owners to maintain a firearm's performance and longevity. Regular cleaning and maintenance help to prevent malfunctions, and corrosion, and ensures safe operation.

Remember: Always refer to your owner’s manual when cleaning your firearm. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Make sure your firearm is completely unloaded and ensure that your workspace is void of ammunition at all times. The safety should be set to the Full Safe position. Wear eye protection.

Here's an overview of the supplies needed and the general process:

Supplies Needed:

• Cleaning Rods: Preferably with brass or nylon tips to avoid damaging the barrel.
• Bore Brushes: Bronze or nylon brushes of appropriate size for the firearm.
• Cleaning Patches: Cotton patches for wiping down components.
• Solvent: Gun cleaning solvent to remove residue and fouling.
• Lubricant: Gun oil to lubricate moving parts and protect against rust.
• Toothbrush: A soft-bristle brush for scrubbing small parts.
• Microfiber Cloths: For wiping down and polishing the firearm.
• Cleaning Mat: To protect your work surface and keep parts organized.

General Process:

1. Unload the Firearm: Ensure the gun is unloaded and the chamber is clear. Double-check for safety.
2. Disassemble: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to disassemble the firearm into its main components. Always refer to your owner’s manual.
3. Clean the Barrel: Attach a bore brush to the cleaning rod, apply solvent, and run it through the barrel several times to loosen fouling. Follow with cleaning patches until they come out clean.
4. Clean Other Components: Use the solvent and toothbrush to scrub the action, chamber, and other parts. Wipe down with clean patches or cloths.
5. Lubricate: Apply a light coat of gun oil to moving parts and the barrel. Be sparing to avoid attracting debris.
6. Reassemble and Inspect: Reassemble the firearm, ensuring all parts are properly fitted. Wipe down the exterior with a microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust. Be sure to properly function test your firearm and its safeties to ensure that it is working properly after you reassemble.
7. Store Properly: Store in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to rust.

Regular cleaning keeps your firearm in optimal condition, ensuring reliability and safety each time you use it.

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5. How to Find Your Local Gun Laws and Hunting Regulations

Finding your local gun laws and hunting regulations in the United States is crucial for responsible gun ownership and hunting practices. Here are steps and resources to help you navigate these regulations:

Research Local Gun Laws:

• State Government Websites: Each state has a government website with a section dedicated to firearm regulations. Look for pages under the Attorney General’s office, Department of Justice, or similar entities.
• Local Law Enforcement: Your local police department or sheriff’s office can provide information on gun laws and necessary permits.
• Firearm Associations: Organizations like the National Rifle Association (NRA) often have comprehensive guides on state and local gun laws.
• Legal Aid Services: Some legal aid organizations offer free or low-cost consultations and resources on firearm laws.

Hunting Regulations:

• State Fish and Wildlife Agencies: Every state has a fish and wildlife department that manages hunting regulations. Their websites offer detailed information on hunting seasons, species restrictions, and hunting zones.
• Federal Regulations: For federal lands, consult the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Bureau of Land Management websites.
• Hunting Licenses and Permits: You can often purchase hunting licenses and permits online through state fish and wildlife department websites or at authorized retailers like sporting goods stores.

Hunting Seasons and Restrictions:

• State Fish and Wildlife Websites: These sites provide calendars of hunting seasons for different game species, bag limits, and any special restrictions.
• Hunter Education Courses: Most states require hunter education courses for new hunters, which cover local regulations and safe hunting practices. Check out IHEA-USA to find a hunter education course near you.

Resources for More Information:

• Online Databases: Websites like NRA-ILA (Institute for Legislative Action) offer state-by-state summaries of gun laws and hunting regulations.
• Printed Guides: Many state fish and wildlife agencies produce annual hunting regulation booklets available at license vendors and online.
• Local Hunting and Gun Clubs: These organizations can be a valuable source of information and networking with experienced hunters and gun owners familiar with local laws.

By utilizing these resources, gun owners can stay informed about the regulations governing firearm use and hunting in their area, ensuring compliance and promoting safety. You must abide with all laws: State, Federal and Local.

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6. How to Find a Local Shooting Range

Finding a local shooting range in the United States is straightforward with the right resources. Here’s how to locate a range and some basic range etiquette to keep in mind:

Finding a Local Shooting Range:

• Online Directories: Websites like the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s (NSSF) wheretoshoot.org offer comprehensive directories of shooting ranges across the country. Simply enter your location to find nearby ranges.
• Local Gun Shops: Most local gun stores can recommend nearby shooting ranges and provide information on their facilities and services.
• Firearm Associations: Organizations like the National Rifle Association (NRA) have listings of affiliated ranges and clubs. Their websites often include additional resources and information about each range.
• Social Media and Forums: Online communities and forums dedicated to shooting sports can be valuable sources for recommendations and reviews of local ranges.
• State Fish and Wildlife Agencies: Many state agencies operate shooting ranges that the public can access at a low cost, some are even free. Check with your state's fish and wildlife agency to learn more about what's available in your area.

Basic Range Etiquette:

• Follow Range Rules: Each range has its own set of rules. Make sure to read and adhere to them strictly.
• Safety First: Always keep firearms unloaded until ready to shoot, keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to fire, and never point the gun at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
• Wear Protection: Use appropriate eye and ear protection at all times while on the range.
• Respect Others: Be mindful of other shooters. Avoid distracting behavior and keep conversations at a reasonable volume.
• Clean Up: Pick up your spent casings and dispose of any trash to keep the range clean for everyone.

For more detailed information, visit wheretoshoot.org by the NSSF. This resource provides not only locations but also insights into the amenities and specific rules of each range, helping you find the best and safest place to practice shooting.

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7. How to Find Your Eye Dominance

Finding your eye dominance is essential for accurate shooting, as it ensures you align your sights correctly with your dominant eye. Here’s a simple way to determine which eye is dominant:

1. Extend your hands forward and form a small triangular opening with your thumbs and index fingers.
2. Focus on a distant object through the opening.
3. Close one eye at a time. The eye that keeps the object centered in the opening is your dominant eye.

Understanding eye dominance helps in choosing the correct shooting stance and aiming technique. For shooters who are cross-dominant (e.g., right-handed but left-eye dominant), there are strategies to manage this, such as training the non-dominant eye, adjusting your shooting stance, or using specialized equipment.

Knowing your eye dominance can greatly improve your shooting accuracy and consistency. For more detailed guidance, visit How to Determine Eye Dominance and Deal with Cross Dominance.

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8. How to Mount an Optic

Mounting an optic on a firearm correctly is an essential step for achieving accurate and reliable shooting. Refer to your owner's manuals for the firearm and optic for specific instructions and torque specifications.

Remember: Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Make sure your firearm is completely unloaded and ensure that your workspace is void of ammunition at all times. The safety should be set to the Full Safe position. Wear eye protection.

Here’s a general guide for rifles, shotguns, and handguns:

1. Choose the Right Optic and Mount: Select an optic suitable for your firearm and intended use. Ensure the mounts or rings match the optic’s diameter and your firearm’s mounting system.
2. Prepare the Firearm: Make sure the firearm is unloaded and secure. Clean the mounting area to ensure a solid and stable base for the optic.
3. Attach the Base or Rings: For rifles, attach the base or rings to the receiver using the provided screws. Torque them to the manufacturer’s specifications to avoid overtightening. For shotguns, ensure the optic is mounted in a position that allows for proper eye relief and doesn’t interfere with the operation of the gun. For handguns, typically use a specialized mount designed for the specific model.
4. Mount the Optic: Place the optic in the rings or base, ensuring it is level. Use a bubble level to confirm the optic is aligned correctly with the firearm.
5. Secure the Optic: Tighten the ring screws incrementally and alternately to evenly distribute pressure. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.

By following these steps, you ensure that your optic is securely mounted and properly aligned, enhancing your shooting accuracy. For more detailed information and instructions, check out the following articles:

• How to Mount a Scope - Step by Step Guide
• 5 Tips for Mounting a Scope on Your New Rifle
• Boresight a Rifle - 3 Easy Methods
• A Guide to Turkey Hunting with a Red Dot

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9. How to Sight In a Rifle and Pattern a Shotgun

Sighting in a firearm or patterning a shotgun is crucial for ensuring accuracy and effectiveness in shooting. Here’s a guide based on best practices:

Sighting in a Rifle

1. Prepare Your Firearm: Ensure it’s securely mounted with an optic or iron sights. Clean the barrel and ensure all components are in working order.
2. Select a Target: Choose a target at an appropriate distance. If the optic has not been shot on this firearm yet, it is recommended to first shoot a target at either 25 or 50 yards to get the rifle close to zero. This will save time and ammunition before moving to the final zero distance (commonly 100 yards for rifles). Ensure it’s a clear and safe shooting environment.
3. Get on Paper: It is recommended to first shoot at a close target to “get on paper.” Set up a large paper target and fire a single shot while aiming at the center of the target. Using the adjustment knobs on the optic or sights, move the reticle to center the bullet hole in the target. Then fire one shot to confirm this adjustment. If the second shot is within a couple of inches proceed to the next step. This does not have to be perfect but ensures the rifle will hit the target at a longer range.
4. Shoot a Group: Fire a group of shots (typically three) at the target, aiming at the bullseye. Note where the shots land in relation to the target.
5. Adjust Sights: Using the adjustment knobs on the optic or sights, move the reticle to center the shots on the bullseye. Make small adjustments and shoot additional groups as needed until the shots consistently hit the target.
6. Confirm Zero: Once adjusted, shoot another group to confirm the rifle is zeroed. Ensure the adjustments hold and the firearm consistently hits the desired point of impact.

Read: How to Sight in a Rifle for Accurate Shooting

Patterning a Shotgun for Turkey Hunting

1. Select Ammunition: Choose the same ammunition you plan to use for hunting.
2. Set Up Target: Place a large paper target at a measured distance (often 30 yards for turkey hunting).
3. Shoot Pattern: Fire a shot at the target, aiming at the center. Examine the pattern to see how many pellets hit the vital area of the target.
4. Adjust if Necessary: Depending on the pattern, adjust choke tubes or change ammunition to achieve a denser pattern centered on the target’s vital area.
5. Repeat: Shoot multiple times to ensure consistency in pattern density and placement.

Read: Patterning Your Turkey Gun for Turkey Season, How to Pattern Your Turkey Gun 101, and Patterning a Turkey Gun

By following these steps, shooters can ensure their firearms are properly sighted in for accurate shooting or their shotguns are effectively patterned. 

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10. Your Contribution to Conservation Funding

Hunters and shooters play a crucial role in funding conservation efforts through various channels, demonstrating their commitment to preserving wildlife and habitats. One significant avenue is through tag and license sales, where a portion of the revenue generated goes directly to state wildlife agencies. These funds support wildlife management, habitat restoration, and research projects essential for maintaining healthy populations of game and non-game species alike.

The Pittman-Robertson Act, passed in 1937, imposes an excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment. Revenue from this tax is distributed to states based on the number of hunting licenses sold and land area, funding conservation initiatives such as land acquisition, habitat improvement, and hunter education programs.

Additionally, the purchase of Federal Duck Stamps by waterfowl hunters contributes directly to the conservation of wetlands and waterfowl habitats across the United States. The funds generated from Duck Stamp sales are used to acquire and protect wetlands crucial for migratory birds and other wildlife.

Through these mechanisms, hunters and shooters not only enjoy their recreational pursuits but also actively contribute to the long-term sustainability of wildlife and habitats, ensuring future generations can continue to appreciate and benefit from America's natural resources.

Read: Conservation Funding - 5 Ways that Wild Places are Protected
Read: The Federal Duck Stamp - 88 Years of Conservation Funding

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As you embark on your journey as a gun owner, remember that safety, education, and respect are paramount. Take the time to familiarize yourself with your firearm, practice proper handling and storage techniques, and stay informed about local laws and regulations. By approaching gun ownership with diligence and respect, you'll not only enhance your shooting skills but also contribute to a safe and responsible community of gun owners. Enjoy your new firearm responsibly, and welcome to the community of responsible gun ownership!