Manual

5
FIGURE 2
Warning
The safety switch on your Stevens GOLD WING SIDE
BY SIDE shotgun is manual and not automatic. In other
words, it does not automatically go to the SAFE
position when the shotgun breech is opened and
closed, it must be manually moved to the SAFE
position. Never try to place the safety switch between
the SAFE and FIRE positions. Unless the safety is
positioned all the way forward or all the way to the rear,
you cannot be certain whether it is on SAFE or FIRE.
The safest way to carry this shotgun is WITH NO shells
in the chamber. If you feel that you must carry the
shotgun with shells in the chambers, then the safety
MUST BE ON SAFE (“S” see FIGURE 1) or the action
should be opened. When you are ready to fire, the
safety can quickly be moved to the FIRE position
(see FIGURE 2). The only time the safety should be
placed in the FIRE position is when you intend to shoot.
Warning
Never disassemble the safety mechanism. It has been
correctly designed, fitted and tested. Any mechanical
device can fail, however, so never rely on the safety to
justify careless handling or use. Never use a firearm if
the safety does not function properly.
HOW TO LOAD
Warning
Never attempt to load your gun with ammunition that
does not meet the shell designation stamped on the left
rear of the barrel (see FIGURE 3).
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 4
Warning
Before loading this shotgun, always check the bores
to be sure they are free of grease, oil or any other
obstruction. Break the action and be sure the chambers
are empty and the safety is on SAFE.
• Before opening the action of the shotgun, make sure
that the gun is pointed in a safe direction. With one
hand, move the top lever to the right as far as it will
go (see FIGURE 4) (don’t use excessive force, the
lever should move easily). With the other hand, pull
down on the barrels until the action is fully open.
Insert one or two shells of the proper gauge into
the chambers.
• Keeping your fingers away from the trigger and out
of the action, close the action by pulling up sharply
on the barrels until it snaps shut. Although excessive
force in closing the action is not necessary, it should
be closed with enough force to hear an audible
“click” as the action locks. When the action is closed
and locked, the top lever will return to its former
position (FIGURE 5) pointing to the rear. If it does
not do so or you do not hear a distinct ‘click’, do not
attempt to fire the gun, as the action is not fully
locked and damage to the gun and serious injury
to you or others may result.
• Opening the action automatically cocks the hammers
on both barrels. As soon as the action is loaded and
fully closed, the gun is cocked and ready to fire.
Unless you intend to fire the gun as soon as it is
loaded, the safety switch should be kept in the
SAFE position.