Quick Answer
Top safety tips for AR platform hunting include being mindful of muzzle control, using the right eye dominance for scope alignment, and always checking the chamber before loading the rifle.
Scope Alignment and Eye Dominance
When setting up your AR platform rifle, make sure to align the scope with your dominant eye. The general rule of thumb is to position the scope so that the center of the reticle is at eye level and about 1-2 inches from your dominant eye. This will ensure accurate shots and minimize eye fatigue.
Muzzle Control and Safety Catches
Muzzle control is crucial when hunting with an AR platform rifle, especially when tracking coyotes in dense terrain. Always keep the muzzle pointed downrange and avoid pointing the rifle at anyone or anything not intended as a target. Engage the safety catch when not firing, even when moving through dense foliage or scrambling up or down steep terrain.
Chamber Checks and Magazine Management
Before loading your AR platform rifle, always perform a chamber check to ensure the chamber is clear of any obstructions. This includes ensuring the bolt carrier is fully closed and the rifle is on a safe mode. When hunting coyotes, use a 10-round magazine and keep it fully loaded to minimize reload time and maintain a higher rate of fire. Always manage your magazine and keep a reload ready in case of an emergency.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.
