Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW)
Proficiency 2026 Test – (2 Versions)
Question Study Guide with Answers
Overview.
Q1. According to the four universal firearms safety rules,
what is the FIRST and most important safety rule?
A) Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot
B) Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use
C) Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction
D) Be sure of your target and what is beyond it
Answer: C
Rationale: The first and most important rule of firearm safety is
to always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. This is the
foundational rule because if followed, even an accidental
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discharge will not cause injury . The other rules are also critical
but secondary in priority.
Q2. What is the second rule of firearm safety?
A) Never let the firearm point at anything you are not willing
to destroy
B) Always keep the firearm unloaded until ready to use
C) Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot
D) Be certain of your target and what is beyond it
Answer: A
Rationale: The second rule reinforces the first by specifying that
you should never allow the muzzle to cover anything you are not
prepared to shoot or destroy. This applies even when you
believe the gun is unloaded .
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Q3. The third firearms safety rule states:
A) Always keep the gun loaded for self-defense
B) Keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger
guard until you are on target and ready to shoot
C) Never point the gun at anything you don't intend to shoot
D) Always use a holster
Answer: B
Rationale: The third rule addresses trigger discipline. Your finger
should rest along the frame of the firearm, outside the trigger
guard, until your sights are on the target and you have made the
conscious decision to fire .
Q4. The fourth firearms safety rule requires you to:
A) Use only factory ammunition
B) Be sure of your target and what is beyond and around it
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C) Clean your firearm after each use
D) Store firearms unloaded
Answer: B
Rationale: The fourth rule addresses target identification and
backstop awareness. You must positively identify your target,
ensure there are no innocent bystanders, and be aware of what
lies beyond the target in case of a miss or over-penetration .
Q5. What is the underlying principle of firearms safety that
should govern all your actions with a firearm?
A) Treat every gun as if it is loaded at all times
B) Only load your gun when you intend to shoot
C) Guns are dangerous and should be feared
D) Practice makes perfect
Answer: A