Being a Safe and Responsible Firearms Owner

At Viking 6 Tactical, we believe responsible firearm ownership is about more than just owning a gun, it requires education, training, secure storage, and a thorough understanding of firearm laws. Whether you are a first-time gun owner or a seasoned firearms enthusiast, taking these responsibilities seriously can help prevent accidents, keep your loved ones safe, and ensure you remain compliant with all legal requirements.

Education and Training: The Foundation of Responsible Ownership

Proper education and training are the cornerstones of firearm safety. A 2015 survey found that approximately 61% of firearm owners in the United States have received formal training on firearm safety and use. Training reduces the likelihood of accidental discharges and ensures that gun owners understand how to handle, store, and use their firearms effectively.

It’s also critical that all members of a household, including children, receive basic firearm safety education. Studies have shown that children who are trained on firearm safety are less likely to be involved in unintentional firearm injuries. Basic safety training should include:

• Keeping fingers off the trigger until ready to shoot

• Muzzle awareness, always pointing a firearm in a safe direction

• What to do if they encounter a firearm (not touching it and immediately notifying an adult)

• The dangers of improper firearm handling

• How to safely move a firearm if necessary

Safe Storage: Protecting Your Household and Community

Proper storage of firearms is crucial for preventing unauthorized access. Firearms not in use should be unloaded, locked, and stored separately from ammunition. This significantly reduces the risk of accidents, particularly involving children or unauthorized individuals.

For firearms used for personal defense, Viking 6 Tactical strongly recommends quick-access safes. These safes allow for rapid retrieval in emergencies while keeping the firearm out of reach of children or intruders. The best quick-access safes feature:

• Biometric fingerprint scanners for rapid access

• Combination or keypad entry with backup keys

• Tamper alerts and reinforced construction

• Secure mounting to heavy furniture or a bedframe

If you keep a loaded firearm for self-defense, we recommend storing it in a quick-access safe, in a holster that covers the trigger. This allows you to grab the firearm and establish a proper grip without risking an accidental discharge. Additionally, a flashlight should be stored alongside your firearm for identifying potential threats in low-light situations.

Understanding Firearm Laws: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Being a responsible gun owner also means understanding and following firearm laws. Firearm regulations vary by state and locality, covering areas such as:

• Where and when you can legally carry a firearm

• Safe storage requirements

• Transportation laws for firearms

• Use-of-force laws and self-defense statutes

Ignorance of the law is not an excuse for violating it. Keeping up with changes in legislation and ensuring you comply with all regulations is essential for responsible ownership.

Community Safety: Extending Responsibility Beyond Your Home

Safe firearm ownership extends beyond your household. Community education initiatives, gun safety advocacy, and supporting responsible firearm storage laws contribute to a safer society. Some states have implemented child-access prevention laws, which require firearms to be securely stored to prevent unauthorized access by minors.

Additionally, firearm owners should take steps to prevent theft. Firearms left in vehicles should always be stored in a vehicle-mounted safe rather than in the glove compartment, under a seat, or in the center console. Many firearms used in crimes are stolen from vehicles, making secure storage outside the home just as important as inside.

At Viking 6 Tactical, we promote a comprehensive approach to firearm safety—one that includes thorough education, ongoing training, secure storage practices, and a strong understanding of legal responsibilities. By embracing these principles, gun owners can significantly reduce risks and ensure their firearms remain tools for defense and sport, not sources of danger.

Being a responsible gun owner isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about protecting those around you. If you’re interested in learning more about firearm safety and training, Viking 6 Tactical offers classes for homeowners on securing their homes and firearms. Contact us today to learn more!