Know Your Target

by Staff January 24, 2015

written by Staff January 24, 2015 0 comment

MONTGOMERY-When handling a gun or bow, the responsibility to do so safely, legally and ethically belongs to the handler. Whether you are on a range or in the woods; new to shooting sports or a trained professional; the responsibility of firearms ownership belongs to you. It is also your responsibility to positively identify your target and know what is beyond it before discharging a firearm or bow. Practicing and becoming proficient with a firearm or bow is also a part of that responsibility.

Practicing your shooting skills at a range will allow you to become more proficient in a safe environment.

Understanding how to hit your target is important, but knowing where to aim your bullet or arrow and where it will stop if you miss the target is critical. As fun as it may be to set up tin cans in the backyard for target practice, there are safer ways to become more proficient. A .22-caliber bullet can travel up to a mile or more if the target is missed, and larger caliber bullets can travel up to 3 miles. Whether or not you hit the can, the chance of injury is not worth the risk. Something as simple as a rock can cause a bullet to ricochet right back in your direction. For this reason, always use an earthen berm as a backstop to shoot into, or preferably a shooting range built for that purpose. A list of public and privately operated ranges is available at www.outdooralabama.com/alabama-shooting-ranges.
Proper identification of the animal you are hunting is not only important for human safety but also to ensure you are targeting an animal that is legal to hunt. Never identify an animal through a scope; always use binoculars for absolute certainty. Not being positive in your identification and target zone could result in suffering for the animal. In the excitement of the moment, sometimes you can rationalize seeing what you want to see rather than what is actually there. Take the time to properly identify the target and know that it is the right target before putting your finger on the trigger or release. Taking this little bit of extra time can ensure you are not aiming a rifle or bow at a human. After correctly identifying the animal, make sure the bullet or arrow will hit in a safe place if it misses the target.
Shooting opportunities come fast and require a quick response when hunting for small game animals such as duck, dove, rabbit or quail. Before taking a shot, be aware of the landscape and the location of other hunters to make sure that there is nothing beyond your barrel or bow that may be harmed. Make sure your shot will not fall in another hunter’s direction.
Proper handling of your firearm or bow requires the owner to be safe, ethical and responsible. In addition, hunters should understand their equipment, be able to properly identify the target and know what is beyond that target every time. Taking a few extra steps and being aware of your surroundings can keep not only the hunter and others safe but can help ensure an enjoyable, safe and successful hunting trip.
For more information about shooting and programs presented by the Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, contact Stuart R. Goldsby at (256) 737-8732, or stuart.goldsby@dcnr.alabama.gov.