On March 2nd, the hunting safety test was held at Elkins High School. The school has three officers at the media center, training and helping students with the test, and answering questions. One of the topics discussed was the most common mistakes new hunters make. Danny expressed that these include not maintaining muzzle control and not identifying your target.  “These are simple words, but they are very hard to focus on when you’re a beginner, which is why these mistakes happen a lot”, he said.

 Danny stated that there are many questions about different types of guns, rules, and regulations. “These are important things to know when you’re taking the test”, he said. “It’s a state law to take the class before you can buy a hunting license.”

 Hunting is common in West Virginia and enjoyed by many high schoolers. “Hunting is important because it’s something I did and enjoyed doing with my grandparents”, Danny said.

Finally, students in the class explained why they liked hunting. “I like exploring and walking through the woods and just practicing my shot and being outside enjoying nature,” Hunter Shaffer said. This class helps students understand the safety of hunting, what they could encounter in the woods, and safer ways to handle certain situations. And also being able to get your hunting license.