Safety On/Off


The position of the firearm’s safety device; “On” means the safety is engaged (cannot fire), “Off” means the firearm is ready to discharge.

Related Terms

Defensive Shot


A last-resort shot taken when an animal (e.g., bear) charges or poses imminent danger, emphasizin...


View Term: Defensive Shot

Unloaded Firearm


A firearm with no ammunition in the chamber or magazine; many states require firearms to be unloa...


View Term: Unloaded Firearm

Zone of Fire


A clearly defined area in which each hunter can shoot without risking others; critical for group ...


View Term: Zone of Fire

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)


A life jacket or vest required on many waterways to ensure hunter safety when waterfowl hunting o...


View Term: Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Trigger Discipline


Keeping one’s finger off the trigger until the moment of firing; a cornerstone of firearms safety...


View Term: Trigger Discipline

Ear Protection


Gear like earplugs or earmuffs that safeguard hearing from gunshot noise.


View Term: Ear Protection

Blaze Orange


A bright orange color worn to increase hunter visibility and reduce accidental shootings, require...


View Term: Blaze Orange

Safety Mechanism


A device on a firearm (e.g., lever, button) that blocks the firing pin or trigger to prevent acci...


View Term: Safety Mechanism

Hunter Orange


Another name for blaze orange, the highly visible color mandated in many states for hunter safety.


View Term: Hunter Orange

Hunting Plan


A shared itinerary detailing hunting location, timeframe, and emergency contacts for safety and a...


View Term: Hunting Plan

Firearm Safety Rules


The core guidelines: treat every gun as loaded, muzzle in safe direction, finger off trigger unti...


View Term: Firearm Safety Rules

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