What is the second gun handling rule?

• A. All weapons must be treated as if they are always loaded
• B. Keep your finger off the trigger and out of the trigger guard until the sights are on the target and you are prepared to shoot
• C. Always be certain of the target and beyond
• D. Never let the muzzle of a weapon point at anything you are not willing to destroy

Answer: (D)

Never let the muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy. This rule centers on muzzle discipline—keeping the gun pointed in a safe direction at all times so that if anything goes wrong, it can’t cause unintended harm. Even when you think a firearm is not a risk, treat it as if it could discharge, and ensure the muzzle isn’t aimed at people, valuable objects, or anything you’re not prepared to damage. This approach reduces the chance of accidents, independent of whether you’re actively firing or handling the gun casually. While other rules remind you to keep your finger off the trigger and to know your target and what’s beyond, the second rule establishes the default safe orientation for the firearm in every situation.