The 4 Rules of Gun Safety
At Moms Who Carry®, our mission is to help women carry confidently, safely, and with purpose. Whether you’re brand new to firearms or have been carrying for years, gun safety is the foundation everything else is built on.
There’s no shortcut around it. No matter how experienced you are, the rules never change — and they must become second nature. These four rules are considered universal in the firearms community, and for good reason: when they are followed consistently, accidents are prevented, lives are protected, and confidence grows.
The 4 Rules of Gun Safety
1. Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded.
Even if you think or even know it’s not, always handle your firearm with the respect due to a loaded weapon. This rule establishes a mindset of responsibility and prevents complacency.
2. Never point your firearm at anything you’re not willing to destroy.
Where your muzzle points, your responsibility follows. Whether at the range, at home, or in daily carry, awareness of your muzzle direction keeps everyone safe.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you have made the decision to shoot.
Your trigger finger is your built-in safety. Training yourself to keep it indexed along the frame until it’s time to fire creates safe habits that protect against negligent discharges.
4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
It’s not enough to identify your target — you must also know what’s behind, beside, and in front of it. Every bullet is your responsibility, and awareness ensures you’re making informed, safe decisions.
Why These Rules Matter for Moms Who Carry®
For moms, carrying isn’t just about personal protection — it’s about protecting the little ones who rely on us. That means safety isn’t optional; it’s essential.
- In the home: Safe storage and clear rules around firearms are non-negotiable when children are present. Pairing these four rules with responsible storage gives your family peace of mind.
- In daily carry: Whether you’re grocery shopping, on the school run, or babywearing, these principles guide how you carry, how you dress, and how you prepare.
- At the range: Training is where habits are built. Respecting these rules not only protects those around you, but also sets an example for the next generation of shooters.
Building Confidence Through Consistency
At first, these rules may feel like a checklist you’re running through in your head. But with practice, they become instinct. That’s when real confidence sets in. Moms Who Carry® holsters are designed with these safety foundations in mind — offering secure retention, comfortable concealment, and quick access so you can carry responsibly and effectively.
Final Thoughts
The 4 Rules of Gun Safety aren’t just for beginners; they’re for everyone, always. The more we live them out, the more they become a part of who we are as responsible carriers.
Carrying as a mom comes with unique challenges, but also incredible purpose. Safety is the anchor that allows us to protect, defend, and carry with confidence.