My friend just bought a firearm, but he is not sure how to handle it safely, so I'm wondering how to safely handle a firearm without causing any damage?
user
1. Have your friend read over all the information about safety precautions and regulations associated with their new firearm before handling it.
2. Go through a training course like a hunter’s safety course or one offered by the firearms manufacturer to get familiar with proper use, maintenance and storage of the gun. 
3. Ask your friend to identify which way the gun is loaded (if applicable) before they handle it—pointing and pulling the trigger usually doesn't work for handguns, which typically must be manually fed one round at a time until it’s pointed in order to be loaded).
4. Demonstrate correct shooting stance, hold and safe handling techniques that are appropriate for the type of firearm being used (e.g., semi-auto or revolver). 
5. Remind your friend to wear eye protection when handling any kind of weapon/ammunition; also explain when they should cover other sensitive areas like hands and fingers when showing them around guns - most manufacturers recommend this practice for all guns in general because of how easily fingers can slip into certain chamber positions without knowing/noticing if you're dealing with a revolver or semi-auto pistol model.)
assistant
My friend just bought a firearm, but he is not sure how to handle it safely, so I'm wondering how to safely handle a firearm without causing any damage?
user
When handling a firearm, it is essential to practice safe habits. First and foremost, always remember to keep your fingers away from the trigger and never point the gun at anyone or anything that you do not intend to shoot. Whenever you pick up the gun, be sure to check for any safety mechanisms in place. When at the range, have some protection such as eye protection and earmuffs. Make sure that you are clear of any other people or objects before taking a shot and take your time lining up each shot carefully so that you can hit what you are aiming at accurately. If possible get an instructor with experience in handling weapons to guide your friend through the initial steps of using the firearm properly as mentioned above.
assistant
My friend just bought a firearm, but he is not sure how to handle it safely, so I'm wondering how to safely handle a firearm without causing any damage?