New York Firearms Safety Course Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a safety on a firearm?

1. To prevent the firearm from firing under any circumstances

2. To replace safe handling practices

3. As a supplemental aid to safe handling

4. To lock the firearm's action

The correct answer is: As a supplemental aid to safe handling

The purpose of a safety on a firearm is to serve as an extra precautionary measure to ensure safe handling of the weapon. It is meant to supplement safe handling practices, such as keeping your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot and keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction. While a safety can play a role in preventing accidental discharges, it should never be solely relied upon in place of proper handling techniques. Using a safety should also not replace proper storage of firearms, which includes keeping them unloaded and locked away when not in use. Additionally, a safety does not physically lock the firearm's action and will not prevent someone from pulling the trigger if they are determined to do so.