Welcome to the growing community of
first time gun buyers!
It's estimated that in the U.S., over 12 million guns were purchased from January through July of 2020. That includes almost 5 million first-time gun owners! If you are a first time gun buyer we would would like to be one of the first to welcome you and invite you to become active in our community and hobbies.
If you're like many first time buyers, walking into a gun shop can be overwhelming. You likely know "why" you want to purchase a gun...
- target shooting
- home protection
- concealed carry
- hunting
...you may not know which model is best for you. Unlike some things in life, one size does not fit all when it comes to firearms.
While the choice may seem daunting, armed with the right information, your selection process should be easier.
This site is dedicated to the first time gun buyer. We want to provide you with a trustworthy, safe, comfortable and truthful place:
- to turn to for firearm industry information
- to get your questions answered
- to be connected with valuable industry resources
When you go into your local gun shop for the first time, don't be shy about letting them know you are a first time buyer! They should be happy to see you and welcome the chance to help you!!
Ask questions. Ask to handle the models that interest you.
And again, welcome to the community!
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Explore Various Types of Handguns
Pistols are a type of handgun that fire single projectiles through a rifled bore each time the trigger is pulled.
Pistols typically have a removable magazine which holds the ammunition.
Revolvers are a type of handgun that fire single projectiles through a rifled bore each time the trigger is pulled.
Revolvers hold their ammunition in a revolving cylinder.
Derringers are very compact and easy-to-conceal handguns.
Many first time gun buyers are not familiar with the derringer although it's a good option to consider for concealed carry, close-range shooting, and personal protection.
Read MoreExplore Various Types of Long Guns
Rifles are a type of long gun that fire single projectiles through a rifled bore when the trigger is pulled.
A rifled bore enables the bullet to travel farther than if the bore were not rifled.
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Shotguns are a type of long gun that fire multiple pellets (shot) that spread out as they exit the gun barrel.
They are versatile firearms as one gun can shoot projectiles of varying sizes.
Explore Various Types of Ammunition
In a rimfire cartridge, the primer is placed in the rim of the cartridge. Therefore, the firing pin must strike the cartridge on its rim, where the primer is.
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In a centerfire cartridge, the primer is in the center of the cartridge. Therefore, the firing pin must strike the cartridge in the center, where the primer is.
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Shotshells are a type of ammunition that contain either small pellets or a slug. There are three main types of shotshells: bird shot, buck shot, and slugs.
A full metal jacket bullet has a soft core (most often lead) that is encased in a separate outer shell made of harder metal.
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Hollow point bullets are easy to recognize. They have a distinguishing indent, dip, or cup-like formation at the tip of the bullet.
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Soft point bullets are made by surrounding a soft lead core with a hard jacket while leaving an exposed lead tip.