How to Shoot a Rifle

When you decide to learn to shoot a rifle, you assume responsibility for your own safety and the safety of those around you. It's important to get to know the weapon you plan to shoot and to develop respect for its power to kill.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Sign up for classes from an authorized instructor. Hunter's education is required in some states before you can get your license or carry a rifle. Even if it isn't required, take the class to learn safety rules and how to care for and clean your rifle.
2. Take care of your ears and eyes with the proper protective gear.
3. Site your rifle. Get a professional to teach you how to check the accuracy of your rifle and make sure the sights are in alignment with the firearm. With some experience, you'll be able to do this yourself.
4. Learn the difference between shooting a shotgun and shooting a rifle. You point a shotgun at the target, focus your eyes on the target and pull the trigger. With a rifle, you aim, align your sites with the target and squeeze the trigger.
5. Breathe correctly when you shoot. Whether you are shooting a shotgun or rifle, the breathing technique is the same. Take a deep breath, sight your target, let half of your breath out, shoot and exhale. Bring the gun back to the target as it recoils.
6. Practice improves your skills. After you have become more comfortable and experienced in the use of a firearm, you will develop your own individual firing techniques.
7. Clean your weapon after every use. Maintain your rifle in good repair to decrease the chance of a malfunction. Cleaning kits are available for every kind of gun, and you must get the one made for your specific type. Always unload and remove ammunition, pins or clips before cleaning. Store your gun unloaded in a secure location when not in use.

Tips & Warnings

• Check state and federal laws governing age limits on gun use and ownership.
• It is your responsibility to keep all weapons locked up and out of the reach of children and unauthorized users.