Reply #15: That's why you clear your weapon and place it on the bench or holster it ...

[spin]

before you check your target.

It also helps if you have the commonsense to follow gun safety rules.

1. ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.

This is the primary rule of gun safety. A safe direction means that the gun is pointed so that even if it were to go off it would not cause injury or damage. The key to this rule is to control where the muzzle or front end of the barrel is pointed at all times. Common sense dictates the safest direction, depending on different circumstances.

2. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

When holding a gun, rest your finger on the trigger guard or along the side of the gun. Until you are actually ready to fire, do not touch the trigger.

3. ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.

Whenever you pick up a gun, immediately engage the safety device if possible, and, if the gun has a magazine, remove it before opening the action and looking into the chamber(s) which should be clear of ammunition. If you do not know how to open the action or inspect the chamber(s), leave the gun alone and get help from someone who does.
http://www.nrahq.org/education/guide.asp

I've shot and handled handguns on a regular basis for over forty years and haven't had an accidental discharge yet. I am well aware that if I allow my confidence in my experience to override my respect for the weapon, I could have an accident. Hopefully if I ever do, I will have at least remembered to have the muzzle of the weapon pointed in a safe direction.

I have often heard that there a are two types of shooters. Those who have had an accidental discharge and those who will.