“Never point a gun at anything you don’t want/intend to shoot!”
While I agree with the concept behind the statement, it is not a rule that can really be followed. A gun is always pointing at something, and most of the time one is not intending to shoot.
Yes, a technical point, but still true. If I handle my weapon in my home, I don’t intend to shot anything, but I must still point the gun somewhere...I just make sure it is somewhere safe.
Maybe “Never point a gun at anyone you don’t intend to shoot” would be more accurate?
I stand by my point. If I am actively handling a weapon, I make sure what it is pointing at is something I would intend to shoot vs. something I don’t intend to shoot. A wall, floor, the ground or other inanimate object is much more innocuous than something animate or precious. Of course you have to keep in mind what is behind the wall or floor or other inanimate object (be aware of your surroundings).
If a weapon I am handling is going to discharge (whether by intent or accident), then what I am actively pointing at should be something I am ok with discharging any weapon I am handling into.