A firearms store is the perfect place to purchase a new gun or get some ammunition for the firearms you already own, but often they offer more than that. The services available at many gun shops include education and assistance for new shooters and gun owners. 

Understanding Firearms

Buying your first gun can be more challenging than most people realize. The process requires you to find a gun that will do what you want it to, is a good size and fit for you, and fits your budget. 

A visit to the local firearms store can be helpful in many different ways. The owner or associates at the store are often gun enthusiasts, and most of them have intimate knowledge about firearms that they can share with you. When you arrive at the gun shop, let them know that you are looking for a first gun, and they can go over different sizes, styles, and configurations of firearms with you. 

While the firearms dealer does want to sell guns, they are also an excellent resource for information and knowledge. Don't be afraid to ask many questions about the firearm options you have and how they work. You may also want to pick a few guns up to see how they feel in your hands while you are at the firearms store.

Determine The Use

It is vital to define your purpose behind purchasing a firearm before you can select that first gun. For many people, home defense is a concern, while for other people, getting involved in hunting may be the motivation for buying a gun. 

Modern firearms are often purpose-built for specific tasks. Because of this, you may not be able to purchase just one firearm that does everything, but you can get one that is very good at doing one thing well. 

Hunting rifles are accurate and excellent for shooting game over a long distance, and they use ammunition that will fly straight and flat for several hundred yards, making them great for hunting. Handguns however are typically not well suited to large game hunting. There can be exceptions to the rule, but in general, handguns are a better option for personal defense. 

Firearms Safety Training

A firearms store or dealer is a great place to find information about firearms safety courses and training for new shooters. The shop may offer classes there or have information about local classes available to the public for a fee. 

The firearms dealer can also be a good resource for advanced courses as your skills progress and may even have a range available to customers so you can test-fire a few guns while you are there.