Is it true that a major objective of the National Rifle Association has been to provide training in the safe and proper use of firearms since 1871?

The statement is accurate because one of the founding principles of the National Rifle Association (NRA), established in 1871, was to promote and encourage the shooting sports, which inherently includes training individuals in the safe and responsible use of firearms. The organization was created in the context of improving marksmanship among soldiers and has since evolved to encompass a broader commitment to firearms safety education and training for all individuals, regardless of their experience level. This long-standing focus on safe handling practices and proper training techniques has shaped the NRA's mission and programs over the years, reinforcing the importance of education in responsible firearm ownership and operation.