During firearm handling, where should your finger be when you are not ready to shoot?

When handling a firearm and you are not ready to shoot, your finger should always be out of the trigger guard. This practice is crucial for firearm safety. Keeping your finger outside the trigger guard helps prevent accidental discharges, which can occur due to a reflexive action or if the firearm is unexpectedly jostled. By positioning your finger away from the trigger, you maintain a safer handling process, reducing the risk of unintended harm to yourself or others.

This fundamental rule is a cornerstone of gun safety training and is emphasized in hunter education programs to instill safe habits in handling firearms. By ensuring that the finger remains off the trigger until you are fully prepared to shoot, you demonstrate responsible and careful firearms management.