Many makes and models of firearms might LOOK nearly the same. However, they differ widely in design and operation, and in the location and function of various controls.

Study this manual thoroughly. Educate yourself on the characteristics and operation of your particular firearm before attempting to handle it. DO NOT permit others to handle it - unless they also have done so.

You should have an instruction manual for every firearm you own. If you do not, write the manufacturer and obtain one. Most manufacturers will gladly send you one free. If for any reason a manual is not available, visit your public library. Many books have been published which contain detailed information on obsolete or discontinued firearms.

Your knowledge can prevent injuries.

ROSSI firearms are designed and made to offer maximum safety when correctly used. However, as with any other firearm, it is not foolproof, and may become very dangerous if the following basic recommendations are not RIGIDLY observed:

ATTENTION

1. DANGER: Never, never-ever point any firearm, loaded or unloaded, at anything you do not intend to shoot.
2. WARNING: Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
3. NOTICE: Get instruction from a competent firearms instructor before using any firearm.
4. SAFETY FIRST: The safety is only a mechanical device, not a substitute for common sense.  
5. WARNING: Keep your finger off the trigger until you are actually aiming at the target ready to shoot.
6. WARNING: Be certain the firearm is unloaded before cleaning.
7. WARNING: Always empty firearms before entering a place where there are people.
8. SAFETY FIRST: Never leave a loaded firearm unattended.
9. SAFETY FIRST: Store firearms and ammunition separately beyond the reach of children.
10. WARNING: Don't test the safety by pulling the trigger while the safety is on unless you are absolutely sure the firearm is empty and you are pointing away from everyone.
11. SAFETY FIRST: Be sure of your target and backstop before you shoot.
12. SAFETY FIRST: Firearms and alcohol or drugs don't mix. Do not shoot or handle firearms after consuming beer, wine, other alcoholic beverages or any medications or other drugs that may affect your ability.
13. WARNING: Never pull a firearm towards you by the muzzle. Don't climb a tree or cross a fence with a loaded firearm.
14. DANGER: Load and unload with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
15. SAFETY FIRST: If a firearm fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, keep it pointed at the target for at least 30 seconds. Sometimes slow primer ignition will cause a "hang" fire and the cartridge will go off after a short pause.
16. SAFETY FIRST: Never shoot at hard flat surfaces or water, bullet may ricochet.
17. DANGER: When receiving a firearm always check that it is unloaded (open breech and inspect the chamber), even if you saw it done previously.
18. DANGER: Never put your hand over the muzzle of a firearm.
19. DANGER: Check ammunition to be sure it is the right size and caliber, and that it is not dented.
20. SAFETY FIRST: Use a proper holster and draw only if you intend to shoot.
21. NOTICE: Never cock the firearm until you are ready to shoot.
22. SAFETY FIRST: Dry firing is bad for this firearm, whether the hammer block is engaged or not.
23. DANGER: WHILE HANDLING ANY FIREARM, NEVER ALLOW IT TO POINT AT ANY PART OF YOUR BODY OR AT ANOTHER PERSON. NO HARM SHOULD RESULT IF YOU OBEY THIS RULE, EVEN IF AN ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE OCCURS.
24. CAUTION: If there is any reason to suspect that a bullet is obstructing the barrel, immediately unload the firearm and look through the bore. It is not sufficient to merely look in the chamber.
25. SAFETY FIRST: Treat this firearm as a precision instrument.
26. WARNING: Old or reloaded ammunition may be dangerous. We recommend against using it.
27. DANGER: Don't try to change your firearm's trigger pull, because alteration of trigger pull usually affects sear engagement and may cause accidental discharge.
28. SAFETY FIRST: Write to us concerning any items or circumstances which might relate to your safety and the operation of our products.
29. DANGER: Never engage a gun lock on a loaded firearm.
30. SAFETY FIRST: Protect your eyes and ears.  Wear shooting glasses and ear protectors (ear-muff-type or ear-plugs) while you're firing any firearm.  Avoid wearing clothing made of nylon or other synthetics while near black powder. Static electricity can set off Pyrodex.
31. DANGER: Never smoke while loading, shooting or handling black powder or Pyrodex.
32. DANGER: Do not keep powder or primers any where near a shooting       bench or firearms that are being discharged. Both powder and primers can be detonated by sparks or intense heat. For more details on safe handling or powder and primers, read the manufacturers' instructions.