We see a ton of threads concerning gun selection and purchase information. I thought it might be a good idea to assemble a list, something that could be polished when everyone has had some input, on critical decisions one should make before trying out and/or purchasing a gun.
I’ve always felt that a gun purchase is similar to buying a car. You should have some questions answered in your mind before heading out to the dealer…otherwise you’ll be lost in the dizzying array of what’s available, and forced to rely on the seller alone for what would be “best for you.”
So, I’ll start the ball rolling with a few suggestions I offer, especially to newer shooters. They are in no specific order at this time. Please, let’s not get lost in philosophical tangents, but think along the lines of a no-nonsense approach to help the new guys and gals think the impending purchase through.
1] How much are you willing to spend? What is your preferred price range?
2] How much are you willing to spend on ammunition? [In other words, if you get an “odd” caliber, have you researched shooting costs over “common” calibers?]
3] What rules and regulations concerning gun purchases apply to you in your city and state?
4] What will be your primary reason for ownership? Secondary reason? [I.e., self-defense, plinking, hunting, competition?] Will the gun be used for concealed carry? Note that this will probably help in caliber selection.
5] Have you decided on the general “type” of gun? Rifle, shotgun, pistol revolver?
6] If you’ve decided on a handgun, do you know what the difference is between mechanical action of revolver versus semi-auto?
7] If shotgun, do you know the difference in action of pump, semi-auto, double?
8] Do you have any physical characteristics which affect your choice? [Hand size, general body size, disabilities?]
9] Availability of aftermarket parts and accessories?
10] Do you have a preferred finish selected? Do you know the difference between blued, stainless, etc.?
11] Sight hardware. Do you know the difference between fixed and adjustable sights? Do you have a preference yet?
12] Do you have guns available to "try out?" Rental, gun owner friends, etc..
…that’s for starters…after it's been up for a while, we can put it into a more reasonable order, and in the meantime, start people off with something concrete to begin their gun ownership experience!
I’ve always felt that a gun purchase is similar to buying a car. You should have some questions answered in your mind before heading out to the dealer…otherwise you’ll be lost in the dizzying array of what’s available, and forced to rely on the seller alone for what would be “best for you.”
So, I’ll start the ball rolling with a few suggestions I offer, especially to newer shooters. They are in no specific order at this time. Please, let’s not get lost in philosophical tangents, but think along the lines of a no-nonsense approach to help the new guys and gals think the impending purchase through.
1] How much are you willing to spend? What is your preferred price range?
2] How much are you willing to spend on ammunition? [In other words, if you get an “odd” caliber, have you researched shooting costs over “common” calibers?]
3] What rules and regulations concerning gun purchases apply to you in your city and state?
4] What will be your primary reason for ownership? Secondary reason? [I.e., self-defense, plinking, hunting, competition?] Will the gun be used for concealed carry? Note that this will probably help in caliber selection.
5] Have you decided on the general “type” of gun? Rifle, shotgun, pistol revolver?
6] If you’ve decided on a handgun, do you know what the difference is between mechanical action of revolver versus semi-auto?
7] If shotgun, do you know the difference in action of pump, semi-auto, double?
8] Do you have any physical characteristics which affect your choice? [Hand size, general body size, disabilities?]
9] Availability of aftermarket parts and accessories?
10] Do you have a preferred finish selected? Do you know the difference between blued, stainless, etc.?
11] Sight hardware. Do you know the difference between fixed and adjustable sights? Do you have a preference yet?
12] Do you have guns available to "try out?" Rental, gun owner friends, etc..
…that’s for starters…after it's been up for a while, we can put it into a more reasonable order, and in the meantime, start people off with something concrete to begin their gun ownership experience!
