Crossing obstacles How to cross fences, logs, streams and other obstacles with a firearm

• Safely unload the firearm and leave the action open

• Point the muzzle in a safe direction and cover the muzzle

• Place the firearm on the ground, under the fence

• Cross the obstacle at a safe distance from the firearm to eliminate the risk of falling or tripping over it

• Retrieve the firearm by approaching the stock end

• Check the barrel for obstructions before loading

• Reload the firearm

When crossing a stream you will have to modify this procedure as you won’t have the option of placing your firearm on the ground. In this case ensure your firearm is unloaded and leave the action open.

• Safely unload the firearm while standing back-to-back and leave the action open
• The first hunter hands their firearm to the second hunter
• The second hunter visually confirms that both firearms are unloaded, that the safeties are on and that the actions are open and verbally confirms control of both firearms by saying “I got it” or “Thank you”
• The first hunter crosses the obstacle
• The second hunter passes both firearms over the obstacle to the first hunter
• The second hunter then crosses the obstacle and retrieves his firearm
•  Both hunters stand back-to-back to reload, before continuing the hunt