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Loading Handguns

Hands loading pistol rounds into magazine

Even something as simple as loading or unloading a handgun can result in tragedy if it isn’t done properly. To load a handgun safely:

  • Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
  • If the firearm has a safety, put the safety on if you can open the action and load the firearm with the safety on.
  • Keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard.
  • Open the action or cylinder on your handgun. Make sure the firearm’s chamber and barrel are clear and unobstructed. If loading a semi-automatic handgun, drop the magazine if it is not already out of the handgun.
  • Load the correct ammunition into the cylinder or magazine.
  • Insert your magazine if you shoot a semi-automatic handgun, or close the cylinder on your revolver.
  • Put the safety on if it is not on already.
Hands putting rounds into revolver chamber
  • Unit 2 of 9
  • Topic 3 of 4
  • Page 2 of 3
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