Not everyone has been raised around firearms. If you have no experience with guns and are a first-time gun buyer, it's okay to have questions. Many people have been in your shoes and like you, are a little uncertain about what to do at a gun shop.
Ask for Advice
Good gun shops have knowledgeable and experienced employees. They will be happy to answer your questions. When you go up to the counter, tell them you’re a first-time gun-buyer. Ask what guns they recommend for a beginner.
If they say they're too busy or act like they don’t want to be bothered, go somewhere else. A good shop won’t make you feel uncomfortable if you have questions. They will have no problem if you ask to check out a few different guns before making a final decision on which one to buy.
What Questions Should You Ask at the Gun Shop?
You don't need to know exactly what type of model you want. You should spend a little time figuring out what type of firearm you want before you hit the store, though, like a handgun or long gun.
- Ask to see several guns that fit your idea of what you want.
- Ask what permits and/or specialty permits you will need to purchase your gun.
- Ask what size ammo you will need.
- Ask what the pros and cons are of each firearm you are considering.
Some Recommendations for First-Time Gun Buyers
It never hurts to do a little homework first to find out which are the best gun shops in your area. Smaller shops may give you more knowledgeable and personalized service than you will get in a big box store. If you have friends that own guns, ask them for gun store recommendations.
Remember, you don’t need to buy a gun in the first shop you visit. Take some time to shop around to make sure you’re getting the best price. It's also a good idea to start visiting the gun range and renting different guns to try before you invest in your own firearm.
Before buying your first gun, consider where you will be storing it. Most states don’t require you to lock it in a gun safe. But if you're interested in keeping your gun secure from thieves and out of the hands of kids, consider a gun safe or handgun vault. With hundreds of dealers across the United States and Canada, there is a local Liberty Safe dealer near you!
