ACT 235 Firearms Safety 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When storing a firearm at home, what is the most important safety measure an ACT 235 officer should follow?
- Store it loaded for quick access
- Store it unloaded in a locked container separate from ammunition (Correct answer)
- Keep it under the mattress for easy reach
- Leave it on the nightstand with the safety engaged
Correct answer: Store it unloaded in a locked container separate from ammunition
Firearms should be stored unloaded in a locked container with ammunition stored separately to prevent unauthorized access and accidents.
Question 2: Which of the following is the correct procedure when a firearm fails to fire after pulling the trigger?
- Immediately look down the barrel to check for obstruction
- Keep the firearm pointed at the target for 30 seconds, then carefully unload (Correct answer)
- Shake the firearm vigorously to dislodge the round
- Immediately hand the firearm to a supervisor
Correct answer: Keep the firearm pointed at the target for 30 seconds, then carefully unload
After a misfire, keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction for at least 30 seconds before carefully unloading, in case of a hangfire (delayed ignition).
Question 3: What does the term 'squib load' refer to in firearms safety?
- A round that fires with excessive powder charge
- A round that fires with insufficient powder, potentially lodging a bullet in the barrel (Correct answer)
- A type of armor-piercing ammunition
- A malfunction where the magazine fails to seat properly
Correct answer: A round that fires with insufficient powder, potentially lodging a bullet in the barrel
A squib load produces insufficient force to expel the bullet from the barrel, which can cause catastrophic failure if another round is fired behind it.
Question 4: Under ACT 235 standards, how should an armed security officer carry their firearm while on duty?
- Loaded with the safety off for maximum readiness
- Unloaded to prevent accidental discharge
- As directed by their employer and in compliance with their training certification (Correct answer)
- Always in a shoulder holster regardless of employer preference
Correct answer: As directed by their employer and in compliance with their training certification
ACT 235 officers must carry and handle firearms in accordance with their training certification and employer directives.
Question 5: What is the primary purpose of a firearm's mechanical safety?
- To prevent the firearm from ever discharging
- To serve as a supplemental device that reduces the risk of unintended discharge (Correct answer)
- To replace the need for safe trigger discipline
- To lock the slide in the closed position permanently
Correct answer: To serve as a supplemental device that reduces the risk of unintended discharge
A mechanical safety is a supplemental device and should never replace proper trigger discipline and safe handling practices.
Question 6: When should an armed security officer draw their firearm?
- Whenever they feel nervous or uncomfortable
- Only when they reasonably believe deadly force is justified (Correct answer)
- Anytime a suspect becomes verbally aggressive
- To demonstrate authority during routine patron interactions
Correct answer: Only when they reasonably believe deadly force is justified
A firearm should only be drawn when an officer reasonably believes the situation may justify the use of deadly force.
Question 7: Which part of the firearm should the shooter's trigger finger rest on until ready to fire?
- Inside the trigger guard on the trigger
- Along the frame outside and above the trigger guard (Correct answer)
- On the magazine release
- Against the rear of the grip
Correct answer: Along the frame outside and above the trigger guard
The trigger finger should remain along the frame outside the trigger guard until the shooter has made the decision to fire.
ACT 235 Firearms Safety 2
When storing a firearm at home, what is the most important safety measure an ACT 235 officer should follow?