4 Things To Do Before Buying Your First Gun
Posted on: 30 April 2020
Thinking about buying your first gun? Whether for hunting or self-defense, gun ownership is not something to be taken lightly. Before you go through the process of purchasing your first gun, there are some things you should do.
Take a Gun Safety Course
While not required in every state, taking a basic gun safety and handling course is highly recommended for first-time gun buyers. A gun safety course can help you feel more confident in handling, loading, firing, and cleaning a gun properly. Just keep in mind that courses can vary greatly in what they cover. Some are very basic, whereas others may come with range time and one-on-one instruction. If you're not sure what type of course would be best suited for your needs, talk to somebody at your local gun shop for recommendations.
Have a Plan For Safe Storage
Before you bring a gun home, you'll want to have a plan for storing it safely. This means you should have some sort of locking gun safe, case, or vault where you will store the gun at all times. Guns should always be stored unloaded, and ammunition should be kept separate from the firearm itself. If you have young children in your home, it is especially important that you keep guns out of reach and locked away at all times.
Understand Your State's Laws
States can vary greatly when it comes to the legal requirements for purchasing a firearm. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the process in your state so you can prepare as needed. For example, you'll definitely need some form of identification to buy a gun, whether it be a state-issued driver's license or another form of government I.D. Keep in mind that if you plan on carrying your weapon, you may need additional permits and documentation as well.
Do Your Research
With so many different firearms to choose from, you'll want to do plenty of research before you decide on one. You might even consider looking for a local gun range that offers gun rentals so you can "try out" a specific type of gun before you buy. For example, if you're a first-time gun owner who is not very confident in loading a magazine, a revolver-style gun may be better suited for you.
Regardless of the type of gun you're looking for, a reputable gun shop will be able to assist you in selecting the best firearm to suit your needs and budget.
To learn more, contact a gun shop.
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