ibfestus,
That 'near miss' goes back to the owner of the rifle and the one it was loaned to..
Both probably could have done differently.

First, make certain that anyone who is going to use a firearm is understanding of the way it works.

Second, IF someone hands you a firearm, make sure YOU know how it works..:) Jim

PS: make certain THAT IT DOES WORK and is in proper mechanical condition..:) Jim