Always treat every firearm as if it’s loaded, and never assume it’s unloaded without checking it yourself. Use an empty chamber indicator so there’s never any doubt. If you’re in a group or are around people who are not experienced with guns, seeing a visible reminder that a gun is empty can be reassuring to others.
How an Empty Chamber Indicator Works
Empty chamber indicators are bright pieces of plastic or silicone that may be red, yellow or blaze orange and are not very expensive–as in a buck or two. The piece is inserted into the open, empty chamber and sticks out slightly as a visual indicator.
1. You’ll make the firing range a safer place.
Many gun ranges or shooting events require empty chamber indicators when a firearm is not actively being used or when anyone is downrange during a ceasefire because they are a highly visible, non-verbal way to indicate to everyone around you that your gun’s chamber is empty. Sometimes, the Range Safety Officer (RSO) will walk down a line checking for open bolts, but a “flag” such as these makes that job instantaneous and visibly easy.
2. There’s never any doubt about a loaded firearm.
Firearm safety rules should be followed even when a chamber flag is used, but empty chamber indicators are a visual way to tell if a firearm is loaded. Not only do they show what is NOT loaded, if your gun-handling system utilizes chamber flags, the lack of a chamber flag can be a quick way to tell what IS loaded.
3. They make traveling with a gun so much easier.
Chamber flags are good to have on hand if you’re flying with a firearm. TSA agents will open a gun case, and if the gun has a flag in it it is obviously not loaded. People who are new to shooting may use them because putting one in can get someone in the habit of checking the chamber when they are done. Sometimes new guns will come with one.
4. There are plenty of options to try.
Safety indicators such as these come in a variety of styles and colors, from brightly colored flags that stick out of the action to larger pieces of plastic that extend from the barrel. We’ve even heard of making your own from brightly colored weedeater cord cut to size to be inserted with some extension out of the barrel.
If you’re not sure about whether a gun is loaded or not you’re in serious danger. Practice checking and re-checking so that you’re never unsure. Use an empty chamber indicator you help yourself and others stay safe at the range and at home.
