Different guns and revolvers on shelves store weapons on shop center.
Congrats on deciding to get a gun! Buying a gun can allow you to take part in recreational activities like hunting, competitions, and other range activities. But it is also a huge responsibility. You don’t want to buy a gun without first thinking over what you need to know and doing your research.
Before you put all your money on the table, consider these tips to help you make the best decision. And if you think it through and weigh all your options, you’ll end up with the perfect gun for you and your needs.
1. Know The Rules
What are the laws in your area about gun ownership and carrying a firearm? Are you aware of where you can have a gun and what you will need to buy a gun? It helps to know about the rules in your area before owning a gun so you don’t risk a fine or having it taken away right when you get it.
Check out these Concealed Carry Permits to see if you should have one for your gun when you buy it if you intend to carry it around. You may need additional documentation simply to own a gun depending on where you live.
2. Training
Before you run out at the sight of the first “gun for sale” sign you see, make sure you are well versed in gun safety. Do you know how to use a gun, and especially the kind you are looking to buy? There are many different types of guns and it’s important to know how to use what you’re getting.
A gun can be used for recreation, but it can also be a tool for defense and incredibly dangerous. Before you purchase a gun, consider taking a course or at a minimum going to a shooting range several times. This will both better prepare you for owning and using a gun, but also give you a taste of the kinds of guns you can own.
3. Right Kind
Do you know the exact kind of gun you want and have you used it before? Getting a gun is expensive, and you want to be certain you’re getting the right one for you, especially since many sales are final offer. Don’t buy the first gun you see in a pawn shop window.
Try out a few models to see what feels right. And also consider what you’re using it for. You might want a rifle for hunting, but you wouldn’t typically use that for home defense. If you want one for the home in case of an emergency, a handgun would be a better option.
Is this only for your use or for your household? Does everyone know how to use a certain kind?
4. What’s Available
You may see a bunch of different guns online that you’d like to buy, but then none are available in your area. You need to buy from a reputable seller who has all the proper documentation in place. The last thing you want as a first-time gun owner is to be sold an illegal firearm.
Do your research on the type of gun you want, and what you can own. And also look into what you need. If you are specifically looking for a gun for hunting, you might get some new ideas by searching through your options. A gun shouldn’t be bought in a rush, so consider all your choices.
5. Shop Around
As mentioned above, you don’t need to rush into your decision, but should look at your options. Compare prices and learn about the gun maintenance needed for the types you’re considering. Other than looking at websites and in stores, you can also ask friends.
Do you know people at your local range? Ask them about their favorite types of guns and where they got them.
Having a recommendation from someone you trust can go a long way in your decision. Online reviews can help, but an actual conversation will give you more information.
6. Test the Gun
When you’re at a shop looking at guns, see if you can test it. Not all places will allow this, and that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still consider that gun, but it never hurts to ask. Often you can buy guns at your range, and they may let you try out that model before you make your final purchase.
This is especially useful if you haven’t tried out a lot of guns. You don’t know how firing it will feel until it’s in your hands and you’re pulling the trigger.
7. Safety First
Do you have a good place to store your gun? Have you talked to those you live with about gun safety? This is probably the most important tip to consider before you purchase a gun.
You want to be trained but you also want to know how to take care of your gun and make sure it doesn’t hurt anyone. Store it in a safe place, and always keep it unloaded. Talk to your household about how to handle it safely and what they should never do, like point it at someone else.
A simple conversation could save you a lawsuit or even a life.
When Buying a Gun
Don’t buy the first gun you see and don’t go buying a gun without knowing how to use one. There are a lot of integral safety tips that come with learning how to use a gun, and those should never be bypassed before you hold one in your hands.
If you consider these tips, you’ll likely get the right gun for you, and you won’t need to prepare for any mishandling. And if this was helpful, keep reading for more firearm tips.