FSC - Firearm Safety Certificate Firearm Handling and Operation Questions and Answers

Question 1

When handing a firearm to another person, what is the proper procedure to ensure safety?

Accepted Answer

Unload it, open the action, and visually verify it is empty.

Answer

To safely hand a firearm to another person, you must first ensure it is completely unloaded. The action (the cylinder for a revolver, the slide for a semi-automatic) should be opened so that the chamber(s) are visible. Both the person handing over the firearm and the person receiving it should visually inspect the chamber to confirm it is empty.

Question 2

You are at a shooting range, and after pulling the trigger on your semi-automatic pistol, you hear a 'click' but the gun does not fire. What is the most appropriate immediate action to take?

Accepted Answer

Tap the bottom of the magazine firmly, then rack the slide to eject the misfired round and chamber a new one.

Answer

A 'click' with no 'bang' typically indicates a failure to fire or a failure to feed. The standard immediate action drill for this type of malfunction is often called 'Tap, Rack, Bang'. You tap the magazine to ensure it's properly seated, rack the slide to clear the chamber and load a new round, and then you are ready to fire again.

Question 3

Which of the following is a fundamental rule of firearm safety that must be followed at all times?

Accepted Answer

Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

Answer

One of the most critical rules of gun safety is to always keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until you have made the decision to shoot. This prevents accidental discharges that could be caused by muscle contraction from being startled, losing balance, or other involuntary actions.

Question 4

A shooter is preparing to unload their semi-automatic pistol. Which of the following describes the correct first two steps?

Accepted Answer

Point the firearm in a safe direction, then remove the magazine.

Answer

The first step in any firearm operation is to ensure the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction. The second step when unloading a semi-automatic pistol is to remove the source of ammunition, which is the magazine. Removing the magazine first prevents a new cartridge from being loaded into the chamber when you cycle the slide.

Question 5

While hunting, you hear a rustling sound in the bushes and see a flash of color that you believe is your target. According to the rules of safe firearm handling, what should you do?

Accepted Answer

Do not fire until you have positively identified your target and what is beyond it.

Answer

A core principle of firearm safety is to know your target, its surroundings, and what lies beyond it. You must never fire at a sound, color, or movement alone. You must be absolutely certain of your target's identity to prevent accidentally shooting a person, livestock, or causing property damage.

Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Test

Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Test

FSC - Firearm Safety Certificate Firearm Handling and Operation Questions and Answers