Post by zoompitman on Nov 4, 2009 10:09:53 GMT 8
SHOOT SMART!
Blowguns are NOT TOYS. One must exercise great caution when using blowguns. You or others can be seriously injured if you do not follow these rules. Always remember to SHOOT SMART!
Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. There are several safe "carries" depending on the situation. NEVER ALLOW THE MUZZLE TO POINT IN THE DIRECTION OF A PERSON.
Treat every blowgun as if it were loaded. You can never be positive that you were the last person to handle the blowgun. Never take anyone's word about whether or not a dart is loaded. Always check the blowgun to see if it is loaded when removed from storage or received from another person. ALWAYS TREAT A BLOWGUN AS IF IT IS LOADED EVEN IF YOU KNOW IT ISN'T.
Only load a dart when you are shooting. A loaded blowgun has no place in your home or other place. The first thing any person picking up a blowgun especially does is, you guessed it, blow in it.
Check your target and beyond your target. Be sure all persons are well clear of the target area before you shoot. Check behind and beyond your target to be certain you have a safe backstop and that no person or property could be endangered.
Anyone shooting or near a shooter should wear shooting glasses. Also, all other persons should remain behind the shooter.
Never climb or jump with a gun. You can't control the direction of the muzzle if you stumble or fall. You should safely lay the gun down or hand it to a companion while you climb or jump over anything. Blowguns cannot accidentally discarge in this situation, but it is a very good habit to maintain.
Avoid ricochet. Never shoot at a flat hard surface. Darts can ricochet off of hard surfaces and go in un-expected directions, including at you or others.
Keep the muzzle clear. Never let anything obstruct the muzzle of a gun. Don't allow the muzzle to come in contact with the ground. Blowguns will not explode like a real gun might, but you might.
Blowguns not in use should always be unloaded. Keeping guns unloaded when not in use is critical to the safety of you and others. When you are finished shooting, clean the bore and leave it clear. Store blowguns so that they are inaccessible to untrained shooters and store ammunition separately from the blowgun. Always supervise children or keep blowguns out of their reach.
Respect other people's property. Whether you're target shooting or hunting, if you're a guest on others' land, you should leave it exactly as you found it.s
If these rules sound like firearm rules, well, they are. Take them seriously, even with blowguns.
