If you are considering buying a handgun for the first time, chances are you're a bit overwhelmed by the sheer amount of choices on today's market. Following are five strategies designed to help you make the handgun purchase that best suits your individual needs and preferences.
Decide How the Gun Will Be Used
If your intent is to obtain a concealed carry license, you're going to want a small gun that's as unobtrusive as possible so that it can easily be carried in an under-the-clothing holster or in your purse or pack. If you're getting one mostly because you routinely recreate in areas where wildlife may be a threat to you -- such as mountain biking, hiking, or horseback riding on wooded trails in black or grizzly bear country during cub season, you're going to want a larger caliber capable of offering you real protection in the event of a bear encounter. You'll probably want something in between if your primary plans for your gun involve leaving it in your home in an easily accessible place so you'll be able to quickly protect yourself from home intruders.
Decide on a Budget
The next step in finding the gun that's right for your particular situation is to establish a realistic budget. Deciding on how much you can spend will help narrow the available choices to a workable level. However, if you have your heart set on a certain type of gun, there may be no need to be disappointed simply because the price of new firearm is prohibitive. Used guns of all types are available on today's market. First time buyers should always have pre-owned guns inspected by a professional gun dealer prior to purchase -- if the seller seems reluctant to allow an inspection, that's a clear sign that you need to move forward with your search.
Visit Your Local Shooting Range
Although some shooting ranges are strictly for those who bring their own firearms, others have guns available for use by the general public. This can be an excellent way to become familiar with different sizes and calibers as well as provide you with with a minimal amount of firearms training and get you used to dealing with issues such as recoil -- and after a bit of practice, you may discover that you can handle a larger caliber with greater recoil. You'll be able to try different types and sizes until you find the one that's right for you.
Take a Gun Safety Course
There are many tragedies involving firearms that might have been prevented if a good course that covered the basics of gun safety had been a part of the picture. One of the issues with modern first-time gun owners is that they frequently don't have a friend or family member with firearms skills who can pass on their knowledge. Depending on your state, you may be required to pass a gun safety course in order to legally own a gun or to apply for a concealed carry permit.
Pay Attention to How the Gun Feels in Your Hand
Never buy a gun that feels awkward when you hold it in your hand. Your index finger should be able to reach the trigger easily and naturally rather than having to stretch or reach. If you're a woman, ask your gun dealer about firearms specifically designed for smaller hands.
Your local gun dealer is an excellent resource for first-time gun buyers, so don't hesitate to approach them with any questions that you may have concerning making the best possible gun purchasing decision. Taking advantage of his or her expertise will result in an optimal experience for first-time gun buyers.
Share13 July 2017
My husband and I enjoy all sorts of sports. We regularly watch our favorite football, baseball, and basketball teams on television. Whenever the weather gets warm outside, we also like to play a little baseball in our backyard. Because we are planning an extensive home renovation project, I plan to invite more people to our home in the future. I’m looking forward to hosting fun outdoor parties. At these parties, I hope to participate in a variety of sports with my friends and family members. One sport I definitely want to play is volleyball. However, we will need to purchase a volleyball net first. On this blog, you will discover the types of sports equipment you will need to host fun, competitive outdoor parties during the summer months.
