New to Firearms? Where to Start
By Weapons.com Editorial Team · Published
A plain-language path for first-timers: learn the safety rules, take a class, check your state's rules, and pick the right ammunition.
If you have never handled a firearm, the number of choices can feel like a lot. The good news is that the first steps are the same for almost everyone, whatever you end up shooting.
1. Learn the safety rules first
Before anything else, learn the basic safety rules and practice them until they're automatic. The NRA's rules start with: always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use. Read our walkthrough of the universal safety rules.
2. Take a class with a qualified instructor
A good beginner class covers safe handling, how the parts of a firearm work, loading and unloading, and basic marksmanship, usually with time on a range under supervision. It's also the easiest way to try different firearms before you buy one. Find a class near you.
3. Check the rules where you live
Rules on buying, carrying, transporting and storing firearms differ from state to state and change over time. We don't summarize them in articles. Instead, check the current guides:
- State firearm laws for buying, transport and storage topics
- Carry permit guides if you're thinking about a carry permit
4. Match ammunition to the firearm
Every firearm is built for a specific cartridge. SAAMI advises making sure the cartridge designation on the ammunition's headstamp matches the designation marked on the firearm's barrel. See how to read caliber and cartridge names, then compare ammo prices.
5. Plan for storage before you bring one home
Project ChildSafe calls secure storage the number one way to help prevent firearm accidents, thefts and misuse. Decide where and how you'll store a firearm before you own one. Our safe storage guide covers the options.
6. Protect your eyes and ears
Gunfire is loud enough to damage hearing, and ranges require eye protection. Read about eye and ear protection before your first range trip.