What to Do If Your Firearm Falls in Water

Accidents can happen to the best of us, especially when you’re out in the wild, enjoying nature and the thrill of the hunt. One moment you’re zeroing in on that perfect shot, and the next, your firearm takes an unexpected plunge into the water. It’s a heart-stopping moment, no doubt! But what’s your next move? You might think of drying it off or even just plowing ahead like nothing happened. But here’s the thing— the first and most important step is to unload your firearm and check for obstructions.

Why does this matter? Imagine you’re out in the field, ready to take that shot. You pull the trigger, and—oops!—there’s a malfunction because of water stuck in the barrel. That’s not just a bad day; it could be dangerous. You see, water can obstruct the barrel, causing a buildup of pressure when you fire. That’s potentially a recipe for catastrophic failure.

So, let’s unpack this step-by-step. First off, unloading your firearm is a no-brainer—it’s about keeping yourself and others safe. You don’t want to take any chances, after all. Just as you check food for obstructions before cooking (ever bitten into a pesky grit?), doing the same with your firearm can save a lot of hassle and ensure it operates smoothly.

Once unloaded, it's time to check for any water or debris. Look down the barrel. Is there any water lingering there? If so, don’t just blow through it thinking you’ll clear it—this is not how you want to play it. Remember that moisture can cause corrosion and long-term damage, so a thorough inspection is crucial. After making sure everything’s clear, feel free to wipe the exterior and let it dry properly.

You might also be tempted to dry it off immediately with a cloth. While it’s helpful to keep your equipment looking good, it doesn’t replace the preemptive safety measures we’ve discussed. At the end of the day, your firearm’s functionality is strictly tied to how well you tend to it right after that unexpected dip.

To wrap it up, safety should always be at the forefront, especially when firearms and water collide. So next time your firearm takes an unplanned swim, remember to unload it and carefully check for any obstruction before you even think about drying it off or continuing your hunt. Your everyday boater may say, 'Better safe than soggy,' and that rings just as true when it comes to handling firearms.