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Tips For Tackling Your First Gun Store Trip

7 February 2016 by Julia Hart

If you're considering buying your very first firearm, a local gun store is a great place to start. Not only will a visit to the gun store give you the chance to see first-hand what your options are, it will also allow you the chance to determine which style of gun fits your hand and your preferences best. If you're not very familiar with firearms, don't let the idea of visiting a gun store intimidate you. Here are a few tips to help you get through that first visit with confidence.

Understand the Basics First

If you've never spent much time around firearms or you're just learning about proper gun handling and safety, there are a few things you'll want to remember about handling guns - even in a gun store.

• Always expect the gun to be loaded. Many people go into a gun store for the first time assuming that since the guns are in display cases and on shelves, they're not loaded. That's no excuse to handle the gun as though it's not. Always treat it as though it's loaded, for your safety and everyone else's. That means you keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot, and don't pull the trigger to "dry-fire" without validating that there is no bullet in it. Additionally, always point it toward the floor, even if you're just checking the sights.

• Always clear the weapon, even if the salesperson did it before handing it to you. Yes, most salespeople in a gun store will check the gun to make sure it's not loaded. They'll open the action and ensure that there's no bullet in it. Even if you watch the salesperson do this, do it yourself, too. The second set of eyes is a good safety measure, and it gives you the chance to see how you clear the weapon before you buy one. Ask the associate to walk you through the process if you're not sure how to do it.

Expect the Staff to Be Carrying

You don't go into a jewelry store without expecting that the sales staff will be wearing some of the merchandise, right? Most clothing stores have staff that wear the product lines. Gun stores are no different. Most gun store employees are also gun enthusiasts, so it's natural to expect them to carry. Don't let the number of openly carried guns in the store make you nervous. These are people who are in the business of gun sales, safety and education, so they know how to safely handle the piece in their holster.

Ask the Staff for Guidance

The sales staff in a gun store typically works in the field that they do because they're passionate about it. For that reason, they're a great resource to help new gun shoppers. Tell an associate in the store that you're new to firearms, explain what you do know already and ask him or her for guidance to choose the right gun for you. They'll want to know what you're buying the gun for to help you select the right one for your needs. Most will even take the time to provide you with some basic gun education information and answer any questions you might have.

Don't let your first venture into a gun store end before it begins simply because of your own uncertainty. With the tips here, you can walk through the door with an understanding of what to expect and some confidence to choose the right gun for you. For more information, consider contacting a professional like those at Northern Security Supply Inc.