California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a safe practice when handling a gun?

1. Keep your finger on the trigger to maintain control

2. Store firearms and ammunition together in a locked cabinet

3. Always treat the gun as if it is loaded

4. Use alcohol to enhance focus before shooting practice

The correct answer is: Always treat the gun as if it is loaded

The correct practice when handling a gun is to always treat the gun as if it is loaded. This fundamental principle is critical because it instills a mindset of respect and caution towards firearms. By assuming that a gun is loaded, individuals are less likely to engage in careless handling or misfires. This mental habit encourages users to follow safe practices consistently, such as keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction and keeping their finger off the trigger until they are ready to fire. In contrast, keeping fingers on the trigger at all times can lead to accidental discharges, while storing firearms and ammunition together can increase the risk of unauthorized access or accidents. Using alcohol before shooting practice compromises judgment and focus, which can lead to unsafe handling and increased risk of injury. Adhering to the principle of treating every gun as if it is loaded significantly contributes to safe firearm handling practices.