How to Safely Handle Gun Parts

Even the smallest gun parts, such as pins and springs, are powerful and can eject forcefully when released. Damaged cartridges and cases may also lead to malfunctions and accidental detonations. To avoid such accidents and inconveniences, practice safe gun handling and wear proper gear, including eye and ear protection. Here are a few ways to safely handle firearm parts:

Assume Your Gun Is Loaded

You can never be too cautious when handling guns, and the safest practice is to always assume the gun is loaded. This practice helps minimize the chances of injury in the event of accidental detonation. Treating the firearm as if it’s loaded allows you to take extra precautions whenever you’re handling gun parts. Before touching any component, point the firearm in a safe direction and remove the magazine if present.

Never point the firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot. When disassembling the gun, start by opening the action and inspecting the chamber to confirm it’s empty. Clear all ammunition from your workspace and use a controlled, dedicated area to minimize damage in case of an accident. When holding the firearm, keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to aim and shoot.

Wear Proper Safety Gear

Safety gear protects your eyes, ears, hands, and body from potential injury when handling firearm parts. Gun components may be under spring tension or feature sharp edges. When released, the parts can fly out with significant force, causing injury or damage to areas they contact. Working in a controlled workspace localizes the damage to the dedicated room and reduces the chances of losing components.

Wear protective gear to absorb the impact from flying springs and debris. Nitrile or mechanical gloves are beneficial when handling gun powder, cleaning chemicals, and oily parts. If you’re testing the firing mechanism with blanks or snap caps, wear ear protection. Safety glasses protect your eyes from knocks, powders, spills, and chemical fumes. Use organizers and trays to hold your components and label them if necessary for easy retrieval and assembly.

Follow Firearm Guidelines

Always use the firearm’s official owner’s manual or guide when disassembling, cleaning, or reloading. Each firearm comes with specific directions for safe assembly and disassembly, so don’t rely solely on prior experience with other guns. Read each step carefully, paying close attention to proper torque and component alignment. Adhering to the provided guidelines helps prevent improper installation, which could cause malfunctions or damage. Before loading, test the movement of all parts and verify that safety features operate as intended. Conduct a full function check without ammunition to confirm reliable operation. Use only the cleaning, priming, and reloading supplies that are officially recommended. Avoid using makeshift tools, as these can increase the risk of injury or damage.

Store Firearm Parts Safely

Guns and ammo should be stored in cool, dry areas away from excess heat, moisture, and sunlight. Keep your firearm parts organized and secure, preferably in labeled bags or containers. Lock the parts inside a toolbox or cabinet to keep the firearm and ammo away from children and unauthorized persons in your house. Live ammunition should be kept separately from other parts when cleaning and handling your firearm.

When testing the trigger mechanism or firing pin, use dummy rounds and snap caps until you’re sure the gun functions properly. Clean and lubricate your firearm before storage to prevent rust and damage. Degrease dirty parts using recommended solvents and a nylon brush. Dry them thoroughly and lubricate them lightly to avoid attracting excess dirt and carbon buildup. Use the right storage bags, boxes, and cabinets, or use the original containers and organizers. Proper storage protects your guns and ammunition from damage, keeping them functional and less likely to cause a malfunction. Gun part suppliers carry the necessary cleaning tools and equipment you need to keep your firearm in good shape.

Find Quality Gun Parts Today

Handling firearm parts poses potential hazards that can be mitigated by following safety guidelines. If you’re new to guns, a safety handling course may equip you with the skills and knowledge required to prevent accidents. High-quality tools and supplies also reduce the chances of a malfunction. Contact a firearm and ammo supplier today to find out more about high-quality gun parts and how to handle them.