Firearm Safety Rules

How much should you rely on a semiautomatic pistol's safety?

Answer

Not completely — a safety is not foolproof and should be considered only an additional safety measure

Most semiautomatic pistols have a safety designed to prevent firing when engaged, but it is not foolproof. Do not rely on the safety to prevent an accidental discharge; treat it as an additional safety measure.

Source: Chapter 3: Semiautomatic Pistol Parts and Operation

Not the answer

  • Completely — a firearm cannot fire while the safety is on
  • Completely, but only on newer firearms
  • Not at all — safeties should be removed to avoid confusion

Practice this

The California Firearm Safety Certificate test is 30 questions and takes 23 correct — 75% — to pass. The app’s page carries a free ten-question test drawn from the same bank, marked as you go.

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