Prepared for Action? | An Explanation of Firearm Readiness Levels
In the world of hunting, safety is paramount. One of the key ways to ensure safety is by following the States of Readiness, a standard procedure that is recommended for all hunters and their groups. This teaching method, originally developed for military and law enforcement agencies, is now a cornerstone of firearms training in New Zealand, as part of the mandatory course conducted by the MSC for NZ Police.
The States of Readiness outline techniques for loading and unloading firearms, fence crossing, and other actions aimed at keeping hunters and those around them safe in the field.
Upon arriving at the hunting property, the first safety precaution is to unload the rifle, keeping it in the unload state. This is done by ensuring the magazine and chamber are empty and the safety catch is on safe, returning it to the unload state. Before heading off to recover the deer, the rifle remains in this state.
When you are ready to fire, the rifle is moved to the action state. This involves chambering a round, with the firearm still on safe. It is only when you have identified your target beyond all doubt and have made the conscious decision to fire that you remove the safety, putting the firearm in the instant state.
After climbing several kilometres, the rifle is loaded and moved to the load state. However, it's important to note that there are no specific recommendations from the MSC regarding the safe transport of firearms during the hunting season in the United States, as per the provided search results.
Upon spotting deer, the rifle is laid on the pack while scanning the clearing with binoculars. When crossing the boundary fence, the unloaded rifle is placed under the fence with the muzzle facing away, then picked up again.
When going on a hunting trip, hunters should perform safety precautions when taking out their rifle from storage, and store the rifle in a locked case in their vehicle in the unload state. Upon returning to the vehicle, the rifle bolt and ammunition are locked away and the rifle is locked in a case after performing safety precautions.
The most obvious state of a firearm is the unload state, where there should be no ammunition in the magazine or chamber, with the firearm on safe. The States of Readiness use clear language that is more concise and easier to use than the old and often misunderstood versions.
It's also crucial to check the firing zone before making a decision to fire, ensuring safety for all involved. After shooting a deer, the rifle is unloaded to ensure it is in the unload state before heading off to recover the deer.
In conclusion, the States of Readiness provide a straightforward and effective way to ensure safety during hunting trips. By following these guidelines, hunters can enjoy their outdoor activities with peace of mind, knowing they are doing their part to prevent firearms incidents.
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