I want to get my first gun!

     The first thing you want to ask yourself is what do I want the gun for?  Is it for self defense or home protection? Do I want to get started in marksmanship competition?  Or do I just want to learn to shoot and plink for my own enjoyment?

     If your a first time buyer you may be confused by all the different types of guns available, i.e. rifles, shotguns, pistols and revolvers. 

     Once you've decided why you want a gun you will need to seek out someone who is extremely familiar with guns of all types.  Preferably someone who is a competitive shooter or a collector.  I say this because talking to someone who is just a casual gun owner or maybe a police officer who only carries a gun because it is a part of the uniform may not be the best people to inform or instruct you on your purchase.

     If you are going to buy a gun for self defense (concealed carry permit), be sure it is a gun that has a proven track record!  By that I mean you want a gun that is from a big name manufacturer like Smith & Wesson, Colt, Beretta and such.  Stay away from the cheap import and domestic junk brands.

    If you are a first time gun owner you will want to stay away from the Safe Action pistols such as the Glocks and the Smith M&P.  This type of pistol has the safety in the trigger and can be accidentally discharged by having the trigger contacted by clothing or a holster, leave these for when you become more experienced in safe gun handling.

     Speaking of safe gun handling you will want to either take a gun safety course or lessons from a well experienced shooter.  Courses are available through the NRA and some gun clubs.  You can also join a gun club where you will find the right people to help you.

     If you cannot find the answers you need locally you can contact me and I will help you in your decision making and help get you started in the right direction.  As stated elsewhere on this website I have been carrying a gun for over thirty years and have been a very successful competitive shooter having won several State titles and a National Championship!  Though not currently involved in competition, I do keep up on my shooting skills by all too frequent trips to the shooting range and also shooting daily with my precision airgun at home!  I'm currently involved with the building and modifications and accuracy tweeks of the AR-15 (Versatile Black Rifle). So if I can be of help to you in your choices I would certainly welcome your inquiries.