A man and a woman hunter, walking through a field at sunset, with the man carrying a rifle. The woman is equipped with binoculars, indicating a hunting activity.

Published: Tuesday, September 3rd, 2024


Every year, thousands of people head to the great outdoors to hunt, driven by tradition, sport, or the simple joy of nature. Yet, with the adventure comes responsibility. Safety in hunting isn’t just about personal protection; it involves respect for other hunters, the environment, and the game itself. Missteps can lead to accidents, but they are entirely preventable with careful attention.

Whether you’re pawning, selling, or purchasing firearms, EZPAWN is committed to providing a safe and reliable experience as a firearms pawn shop (in select locations). This article provides safety insights that every hunting enthusiast needs to know.


1. Treat Every Firearm as If It's Loaded

One of the foundational rules of gun safety is to treat every firearm as if it’s loaded. This mindset ensures you handle every firearm with the respect and caution it demands. Before you handle a firearm, always check its status.

  • Check Regularly: Make it a habit to check the state of the firearm whenever it’s picked up.
  • Assume it’s Loaded: Even if you believe it’s empty, treat it with the same caution as a loaded gun.
  • Prevent Accidents: Adopting this mentality reduces the risk of accidental discharge, protecting yourself and those around you.


2. Always Control the Muzzle

Muzzle control is an essential practice for any hunter. The end of your firearm should never be pointed at anything you do not intend to shoot.

  • Safe Direction: Always be aware of where your muzzle is pointing. Choose a safe direction, especially when moving.
  • Hunting Companions: Ensure that anyone you hunt with practices the same level of muzzle awareness.
  • Respect and Responsibility: By controlling the muzzle, you demonstrate respect for the power of firearms and responsibility towards others.


3. Unload the Gun When Not in Use

A close-up of a hand holding small ammunition rounds, loading or unloading a firearm.

When your firearm is not in active use, it should always be unloaded. This practice isn't just for storage; it extends to transporting your firearm to and from hunting sites.

  • Action Open: Keep the action open to confirm that the firearm is unloaded.
  • Use Firearm Cases: Transport firearms in their cases whenever you're traveling to and from your hunting destination. This step is crucial in preventing accidental discharge during transport.


4. Know Your Target

A person aiming a rifle equipped with a scope, while hunting or practicing shooting.

A responsible hunter ensures they have a clear, identified target and safe background before shooting.

  • Positive Identification: Never shoot at a sound, movement, or flash of color. Confirm your target visually.
  • Safe Background: Be sure of what's beyond your target. A clear, safe background ensures that even a missed shot won't cause harm.
  • Avoid Assumptions: Clear identification is non-negotiable in maintaining safety and ethical hunting practices.


5. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger

Your finger should only touch the trigger when you're ready to shoot. This simple rule can prevent accidents.

  • Trigger Discipline: Practice keeping your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.
  • Muscle Memory: Train yourself so that trigger discipline becomes second nature.
  • Accident Prevention: This habit significantly reduces the chance of accidental discharge.


6. Check for Obstructions

A hunter holding binoculars and a rifle, with a dog in the background, during a hunting expedition.

Before using your firearm, ensure there are no obstructions in the barrel. An obstruction can cause the firearm to malfunction, potentially leading to dangerous situations.

  • Regular Inspections: Inspect your firearm each time you use it, especially if it's been stored for some time.
  • Cleaning Routine: Incorporate barrel checks into your regular cleaning routine.
  • Safety Assurance: By ensuring the barrel is clear, you confirm the firearm will operate safely.


7. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs

Hunting requires focus and clarity. Consuming alcohol or drugs before or during a hunt impairs judgment and reaction time, posing risks not only to you but also to others.

  • Stay Alert: Maintain full alertness and control over your actions.
  • Post-Hunt Relaxation: Save any celebratory drinks until after the hunt, when all firearms are secured.
  • Clear Mind: A clear mind is a hunter's sharpest tool.


8. Hearing and Eye Protection

Protecting your senses is crucial for both safety and enjoyment. Hearing and eye protection safeguard against the hazards of loud gunfire and environmental debris.

  • Use Quality Gear: Invest in high-quality ear and eye protection.
  • Consistency Matters: Always wear protection when shooting, regardless of the duration.
  • Long-Term Health: Protecting your senses ensures you'll enjoy hunting for years to come.


9. Store Firearms and Ammunition Separately

A close-up of a person entering a code on a digital safe keypad, related to firearm storage.

When not in use, firearms and ammunition should be securely stored. This practice prevents unauthorized access and enhances safety in the home.

  • Safe Storage: Use safes or locked cabinets for both firearms and ammunition.
  • Separate Locations: Store guns and ammunition in separate locations to minimize risk.
  • Child Safety: Protect children and untrained individuals from accidental access.


10. Don't Forget the Blaze Orange

Wearing blaze orange is a simple yet effective way to enhance safety. This high-visibility color is easily recognized by other hunters, reducing the risk of accidents.

  • Visibility Factor: Blaze orange is visible even in dense foliage or low-light conditions.
  • Safety and Compliance: Comply with local regulations regarding blaze orange requirements.


Hunting offers unparalleled experiences and moments of connection with nature. However, the joy of the hunt should never come at the expense of safety. By adhering to these safety tips, you ensure your protection and the welfare of others, wildlife, and the environment. Remember, a successful hunter is a safe hunter.

At EZPAWN, we help you navigate firearm and gun transactions confidently and securely. Before engaging in any firearm transaction, it is important to understand all legal requirements. Federal and state laws regulate the sale, purchase, and pawn of firearms.


Purchasing a Gun at a Licensed Pawn Shop

A display of various handguns, in a store, illustrating a scene of gun purchase or selection.

At EZPAWN, we adhere to all legal requirements, including mandatory background checks, waiting periods, and proper documentation for each firearm transaction. Compliance with federal regulations plays a crucial role in ensuring that all transactions are conducted in a safe and legal manner. We ensure that our customers are fully informed about their responsibilities and rights under the law.

It’s also important to note that laws may vary by state, affecting how firearms are bought, sold, and pawned. Background checks are mandatory for all firearm disposition transactions to ensure safety and compliance with the law. Being informed about these regulations can help streamline the process and ensure compliance with legal requirements..

Our friendly and experienced Team Members are trained to provide guidance and support throughout your transaction to ensure compliance with the law.


The Step-by-Step Process of Pawning Your Firearm:

Pawning your firearm at EZPAWN is a straightforward process designed with your convenience and security in mind.

First, ensure your firearm is unloaded and safely contained within a case. Then, bring your firearm and a valid government-issued ID to our store. Our experts will assess the condition and value of your firearm and offer you a fair loan amount.

We specialize in providing immediate financial solutions through pawn loans, allowing you to use your valuable items as collateral. Once you agree to the short-term loan terms,1 we’ll securely store your firearm in a safe place. Our flexible loan renewal and extension options 2 allow you to manage your pawn loan on your terms. And now you can manage it directly from the EZ+ app! We handle every aspect of the pawning process with the utmost discretion and professionalism, ensuring your peace of mind.

Additionally, the convenience and speed of obtaining cash through gun pawn loans make it an accessible option for many.


Contact Us

The exterior of an EZPAWN store, included to represent a place where guns and related equipment are bought or sold.


If you have any questions about firearm safety or our firearms services, please contact the EZPAWN location near you about its firearm policies. We are happy to help you find the right firearm for your needs.


Disclaimers

[1] - Pawn loan repayment includes interest and fees. Failure to pay, renew, or extend will result in forfeiture of firearm.

[2] - Not all services are available in all areas. Pawn extensions are not offered in Arizona, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, or Wisconsin.