California Firearms Safety Certificates (CAFSC) Practice Exam

When should your trigger finger be placed until you are ready to shoot?

1. On the grip

2. On the trigger

3. In a safe position off the trigger

4. By your side

The correct answer is: In a safe position off the trigger

The appropriate placement of your trigger finger is critical for firearm safety. Keeping your trigger finger in a safe position off the trigger until you are ready to shoot helps prevent accidental discharges. This practice reinforces the fundamental safety rule that a finger should only be placed on the trigger when you're prepared to fire the weapon. Maintaining your finger off the trigger also aids in developing good shooting habits and promotes a safer handling of firearms in general. It allows you to maintain control over the firearm and reduces the risk of unintentionally firing it. This is particularly important in both training and practical scenarios, where distractions might otherwise lead to unsafe practices. Other options might suggest alternative placements for your finger, such as on the grip or on the trigger itself, which could imply readiness to shoot prematurely. However, placing the finger by your side does not align with maintaining control of the firearm in a ready position. Overall, the focus on safety with the trigger finger off the trigger until ready to engage is a fundamental tenet of responsible gun handling.