The decision to purchase a firearm is a very serious one. You have the right to gun ownership, but you must always use it responsibly.
If you are interested in buying a gun, but you are afraid that the process may be too complicated, worry not. Although there is some work involved, the act of purchasing a firearm is as easy as 1...2...3.
Here is what you need to know and what you need to do.
1. Choose Your Firearm
The first step is to decide which type of gun you want to purchase, and that means understanding the purpose of the weapon and go from there.
Pistol
If you are a first-time buyer looking for a gun for home defense, then your best option is a lightweight pistol. These are smaller and have a faster reload speed along with a large choice of ammo.
A pistol is typically less expensive (starting at around $200), and it is easy to conceal in a gun safe or wherever you need it so it can be accessed quickly when trouble comes around.
However, they can also have a larger recoil, and they can fail if not properly maintained.
Shotgun
While it appears to be a lot to handle, a shotgun is actually a very easy firearm to use and maintain. They are a bit more expensive ($300 and up), but they send a message to potential criminals when you easily recognizable *ka-chunk* sound they make when you pump, so you may never have to fire a shot.
On the negative side, they can be a bit heavier and harder to store. The recoil is typically stronger than with the pistol. Plus, there is more reloading.
Hunting Rifles
If you are buying a gun for hunting purposes, then a rifle is the best bet. These firearms are designed for aiming at and shooting a target far away.
The best way to choose a hunting rifle is to think about what type of game you want to hunt and go from there.
When it comes to buying a firearm, you want to choose a reliable dealer. Below are just a few.
Guns.com
Palmetto State Armory
1-800 Guns and Ammo
2. Learn About Safety and Training
Remember that just because you want to defend yourself and your property, it doesn't mean that a firearm is the way to do it. You need to assure yourself that a gun is what you need and that you can use it when the time comes.
That is why before you buy a firearm, you should go to a gun range and practice until you feel comfortable with the weapon.
It would also be beneficial to see a gun safety class or firearms training coach. You can easily find one by searching online in your local area.
There are many different courses you can take, including:
Concealed Carry Course
Basic Pistol Shooting
Multi-State Concealed Carry Course
Private lessons
The experts at these classes can also help you choose the perfect firearm for your style and needs.
Safe Gun Storage
It is also a smart idea to keep your gun in safe storage, away from prying eyes or your children. A gun safe can keep this protected and it is easy to open if you are ever in need.
Hearing Protection
When shooting a gun, you want to keep your ears protected so you don't damage them. Electronic protection is ideal as it is lightweight and safe.
3. Complete the Paperwork
When you go to make the big purchase, verify that you have your government ID that has your current address and a second form of ID just in case.
Along with purchasing paperwork, you will need to submit to a background check. This is a process where you provide your information, including age, gender, criminal history. That information is sent to the FBI where it is verified for accuracy.
If you are a good citizen with a clean past, then you will likely be approved for gun ownership. Some reasons for decline include:
Felonies on your record.
A drug history.
Dishonorably discharged from the armed forces.
Convicted of domestic violence.
You've been involuntarily committed to a mental institution.
In some states, even if you have been approved, you may have to wait a mandatory waiting period before you can walk out of the store with the weapon.
Be Smart About Gun Ownership
Remember that owning a firearm is a very serious responsibility, and it should only be used for protection and when at a shooting range.
How about you? What is your experience with firearms? Any tips you can provide? Mention them in the comments. Please note this article contains affiliate links and commissions may be paid.