Texas Hunter Education Certification Practice Exam

What is the first rule of firearm safety?

1. Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction

2. Always wear eye and ear protection

3. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot

4. Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use

The correct answer is: Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction

The first rule of firearm safety is to keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. This principle is fundamental because it helps prevent accidental discharges from causing harm to yourself or others. If the firearm is always pointed in a direction where it can’t cause injury or damage, the risks associated with handling firearms are significantly reduced. For instance, if everyone strictly observes this rule, even if a firearm were to be accidentally discharged, the bullet will not hit anyone or anything important, thereby preventing serious injuries or fatalities. This practice helps foster a culture of responsibility and awareness when handling firearms, ensuring that safety is always prioritized. While the other options represent crucial safety practices — such as using protective gear and keeping fingers off the trigger until ready to shoot — maintaining control of the firearm's direction is universally recognized as the most critical safety measure to prevent unintentional harm.