If you have ever used a firearm, you know there’s no time to waste when it comes to deciding whether it is loaded or unloaded. Chamber flags provide a quick way for shooters to know the status of a weapon without having to guess.
In this article, we’ll tackle some of the most common myths about purchasing and using flags for storing, transporting and keeping weapons at the shooting range.
Myth 1: Firearm flags are just for hunting.
While chamber flags are essential for safe hunting, the need for chamber flags isn’t limited to hunters and outdoorsmen. The simple truth is that every person who owns firearms, or anyone who is interested in gun safety, should own and use flags.
Muzzleloaders are one great example. It’s all too common to stow guns away after a muzzle shoot with the ball and charge left inside. Best case scenario, you remember to discharge the load first before shooting again—and even that is a waste of perfectly good ammunition. Worst case scenario, you forget, and the load remains in the chamber indefinitely, creating the potential for a tragic accident.
Myth 2: Any firearm flag will do.
This is another common myth that could not be further from the truth. For one thing, quality matters. Smart gun owners know that the best safety flags are made in the USA from durable ABS plastic, designed to be range-safety compliant. Flags should be purchased from an experienced craftsman—not from a fly-by-night bulk seller who focuses on quantity over quality.
Function matters, too. Some chamber flags are designed with a stem to be inserted directly into the barrel, while others attach over the side or are fixed with a string or zip-tie. Before purchasing, check the list below to ensure you’re using the correct flag for your firearm and shooting preferences.
Myth 3: Flags are one-size-fits-all.
As we mentioned, gun flags come in many different shapes, sizes and styles—and that variety exists for a reason. Here are some of our most popular types of flags, along with weapon recommendations and tips for using each one safely and effectively.
Standard Chamber Flag
Size: 1 1/2"W x 3 1/4"H x 1 1/4"D
Best for: Caliber .22 or Higher
Revolutionizing chamber flags of the past, this standard flag can be inserted into the firearm along with a loaded magazine. Simply place the stem directly into the chamber of your firearm, which will make it virtually impossible to discharge.
Over-the-side Flag
Size: 5.25"H x 1.5"W x 1.5"D
Best for: Any Firearm
These easy-to-use chamber flags attach over the side and require no firearm modification. Simply insert the flag into the firearm’s barrel anytime you’re storing, transporting or keeping firearms on standby at the shooting range.
T-shaped Barrel Flag
Size: 8.75"H x 4.5"W x 0.5"D
Best for: Any Firearm
This dynamic flag can be used both as a loaded/unloaded indicator as well as to set the ball or bullet into the barrel. Simply insert the flag into the barrel of your firearm while storing, transporting or at the range.
Stringed Barrel Flag
Size: 1 1/2"W x 3 1/4"H x 1 1/4"D
Best for: .22 and Pellet Guns
Feed the string completely through the chamber of your firearm through the length of the barrel, and then trim accordingly. This will make it virtually impossible to discharge the weapon, so remember to close the chamber carefully on the flag to avoid damage.
Zip-tie Chamber Flag
Size: 1 1/2"W x 3 1/4"H x 1 1/4"D
Best for: Break-barrel Firearms
Insert the flag into the chamber, then loop and secure the zip-tie through the trigger guard, which will make it virtually impossible to discharge the weapon. To remove, simply cut the zip-tie and replace with another standard-size zip as needed.
The bottom line: Safe shooters use a gun flag every time.
Gun flags have evolved over time, and they are fast becoming a legal requirement for hunting, range shooting and many other gun-related activities. That’s why at Muzlstik, we’ve expanded our flag line to include our original T-shape flag, as well as options for over-the-side clips and our revolutionary new chamber flag.
Despite our name, these flags are essential not just for muzzleloaders, but for every firearm that you may have in your home. Because when seconds count, nothing replaces the peace of mind you’ll have knowing your weapon’s status when you reach into the gun cabinet, rack or drawer. We hope that our flags will give your family the same reassurance they have given ours and countless others.