There are only four rules of
firearms safety that you need to know, you can break 2 and never get into trouble, but if you break three of them then harm can be done, just don't break any
1. Treat every firearm as loaded.
2. Never point the firearm at something you are not willing to destroy.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
4. Clearly identify your target and what is behind it.
My user name might give you some insight into what I do for a day job (hopefully give this up for a cockpit soon!), which also involves lots of weapons work.
Please also note the distinction (however much you want to split hairs) of a weapon and a firearm.
Anything can be a weapon including a firearm, but unless a firearm is used to hurt or harm people or property or conduct illegl acts then it is just an inanimate object and should be called a firearm and not a weapon.
Off my soap box now as well....
Cheers Mr Bomb