HUNTINGsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Module 04 - SHOTGUNS 101

Illustration of a hunter's hands holding a forward facing break action shotgun.

STEP 1: Assume the shotgun is loaded.

Illustration of a hunter's hands turning on a break action shotgun's safety.

STEP 2: Turn the safety ‘ON’ and point the shotgun in a safe direction.

Illustration of a hunter's hands holding a break action shotgun with the action open.

STEP 3: Open the action by operating the action release and hinging the barrel open (once open, the barrel should drop downward).

Illustration of a hunter's hands holding a break action shotgun with an open action to check the chambers for ammunition.

STEP 4: Visually check the chamber, receiver and magazine for ammunition.

Illustration of a hunter's hands holding a break action shotgun with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

STEP 5: Grasp the shotgun with both hands and point the muzzle in a safe direction.