Archive for the ‘Hunter Safety Tips’ Category
Muzzle Loading Safety And Use
The use of muzzle loading equipment has become a popular part of the deer hunting season over the past decade or so. Today’s high tech and modern guns provide extreme accuracy and are generally easier to maintain than from years past. Here are a few safety and useful tips for adding a muzzle loader to your arsenal.
1. A muzzle loader is a firearm, as with any firearm, always think safety first.
2. Always read, understand, and follow the manufacturers instructions for proper use of a muzzle loader.
3. Only use the proper types and proper amounts of black powder or black powder substitutes as recommended by the gun manufacturer.
4. Make sure there are no obstructions inside the barrel before using.
5. Only use the proper bullet and size, percussion cap, any any other equipment as per the manufacturer.
6. If you can’t remember whether or not a muzzle loader is loaded, check before reloading. A double load can result in serious consequences.
7. Make sure all screws, bolts, breech plugs, and nipples are secure before discharging a muzzle loader.
8. Never force a bullet down the barrel of a muzzle loader. Use proper lubricate or switch to a different type of bullet.
9. Always store the powder and percussion caps in it’s original container and away from any fire or heat source.
10. Unload unfired loads after each daily use. Moisture can build up inside a barrel and result in corrosion, improper firing, or poor shot placement.
11. Keep a muzzle loader clean to prevent fowling. Run a patch down the barrel after each shot. Use a bore cleaner after use.
12. If using during wet weather, clean the muzzle loader as soon as possible after the hunt.
13. Thoroughly clean and lubricate a muzzle loader after seasonal use and when corrosion is detected.
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Tree Stand Safety Tips
This is a hunter safety tips article that provides a list of tree stand safety tips.
1. Always use a safety harness when using a tree stand. There are many available on the market. Make sure to get one that fits adequately and supports your body weight class.
2. Only use tree stands that you are comfortable with and know how to properly use. Make sure the stand is adequate for your size.
3. Always use caution when climbing with or up to a tree stand. Take your time and pay attention to each step or climbing motion.
4. Always use a pull up rope to bring weapons up a tree. Never climb a tree with weapons. Always unload firearms before bringing them up the tree.
5. Always make sure the tree stand is securely attached to the tree. Also make sure the tree is of appropriate size to hold the tree stand and body weight.
6. If using tree steps, make sure they are of quality and are properly and securely attached. Use short step placements for easy climbing and better safety.
7. Use extra caution when climbing during wet conditions. The step and or tree will be slick.
8. Always check tree stands for loose screws or bolts prior to use. Also check any attachments to be used for proper fit and tightness. Make sure the stand is completely secure.
9. If using an attached seat, make sure the seat is securely attached to the stand. Also make sure the seat has not deteriorated from one season to the next. Replace if necessary.
10. Always follow the tree stand manufacturers instructions for proper use.
11. Always remove stands from trees at the end of each season. This will prevent damage from the elements.
12. Always use a climbing belt when climbing up or down from a tree.
13. Let someone know of your stand locations if hunting alone. This way if something does happen, they will know where to look.
14. Only use tree stands that have been properly constructed. Especially with homemade stands, don’t build them cheaply. Use quality materials.
15. Always practice using a tree stand prior to actual use in a hunting situation.
16. Always use caution when moving around in a tree stand. The chance of an accident is higher during movement.
17. Do not use a tree stand during bad weather conditions such as ice storms, thunder storms, or extreme windy conditions.
18. Never take chances when using a tree stand. Use common sense. It is always better to be extra cautious.
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Hunting Safety Tips
As an avid hunter and outdoors man myself, it always seems amazing to me how often hunting accidents occur. I am referring to the one’s involving the use of firearms. Every year when hunting season starts, there is a news brief about some one that has shot himself or some one else. I have been safely hunting for nearly forty years. I try to use good judgment and common sense. With the coming of turkey season, I have compiled a list of hunting safety rules.
1. Do not use alcoholic beverages before or during hunting.
2. Do not use illegal drugs before or during hunting.
3. If you are currently taking legal prescription drugs, make sure they do not cause any mental or physical issues that may reduce hunter safety.
4. Treat all firearms as if loaded.
5. Keep the safety on your firearm until ready to shoot.
6. Keep your fingers away from the trigger area until you are in a safe position to shoot.
7. Do not load your weapon until you are in a safe place to shoot.
8. Always be aware of the direction that your firearm is pointing. Downward is the safest position.
9. Know what you are shooting at before you shoot.
10. If you are not absolutely sure of your target, do not shoot.
11. Know what is behind your target before you shoot.
12. Use common sense. If you are unsure about any thing, do not shoot.
It is always better to be safe than sorry. Never take chances, one mistake may cost you or some one else their life. With the hunting season on top of us, just remember to be safe out there. No turkey or other game animal is worth any one’s life. Always use good judgment and watch out for others.