By Scott Stuhr

4-H Shooting Sports is a nationwide positive youth development program that uses firearms and archery equipment to develop life skills. At its core, it’s about fostering responsibility, discipline, and respect for firearms and the community. The focus on safety ensures that every participant understands the handling of firearms and archery equipment, and the importance of following rules. 

Firearms and archery equipment, when used responsibly, can be valuable tools for education, sport, hunting, and competition. For participants in the 4-H Shooting Sports program—many of whom may be handling firearms for the first time—learning and practicing safety is critical. 4-H emphasizes safety from the very beginning, aiming to prevent accidents and promote responsible firearm use. By instilling a deep respect for firearms, archery equipment, and each other, 4-H helps young people develop a sense of responsibility that extends far beyond the shooting range.

Every 4-H Shooting Sports instructor undergoes a minimum of nine hours of discipline specific training to ensure they are equipped to teach both shooting techniques and safety. Certification is achieved through a standardized process that includes classroom instruction, which includes a minimum of three hours in positive youth development theories and standards, along with hands-on learning. Instructors are responsible for teaching and modeling safe behavior at all times, setting an example for the 4-H participant.

All participants receive safety training in their shooting sports discipline. This education includes the basic rules of firearm and archery safety: always treat a gun as if it’s loaded, never point a firearm or bow and arrow at something you don’t intend to shoot, and always be aware of your target and what lies beyond it. Firearm instructors teach and enforce MAT which stands for Muzzle (always pointed in a safe direction), Action (always open until on the line and ready to shoot), Trigger (finger off the trigger until ready to shoot), to all participants. Additionally, participants learn the importance of wearing appropriate safety gear, such as eye and ear protection.

A crucial part of maintaining safety is the regular inspection of firearms and equipment. Before any shooting activity begins, instructors and RSOs thoroughly check the condition of all firearms to ensure they are functioning correctly and are safe to use. Any malfunctioning or unsafe equipment is immediately removed from use, ensuring that only the safest, most reliable gear is used.

Handling firearms and archery equipment demands a high level of personal responsibility. Participants learn to take ownership of their actions, understanding that their decisions can have serious consequences. This sense of responsibility is reinforced through consistent practice and the guidance of instructors, preparing participants to make responsible choices in all areas of life.

Shooting sports require concentration and discipline. The safety protocols demand that participants focus on the task at hand, pay attention to details, and follow instructions. These qualities—discipline and focus—are transferable skills that benefit participants in other aspects of their lives, including academics and future careers.

The 4-H Shooting Sports program emphasizes respect—not only for the rules of the range but also for the rights and safety of others. This respect extends to their peers, instructors, and the broader community, fostering a culture of mutual respect and consideration.

The 4-H Shooting Sports program is much more than a way for young people to learn about firearms and marksmanship. It is an educational experience that places a strong emphasis on safety. By adhering to strict safety protocols, 4-H ensures that participants develop into responsible, disciplined, and respectful individuals. These qualities not only make them safer competitors but also better citizens, equipped to contribute positively to their communities. 4-H Shooting Sports’ commitment to safety is a testament to its dedication to developing well-rounded, responsible young people who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.

To learn more about the 4-H Shooting Sports program please visit 4-HShootingSports.org, or contact Scott Stuhr, National Program Coordinator, at 402-643-0704 or coordinator@4h-hshootingsports.org