Soon to be first time gun owner (newbie questions)

[stuck_in_new_orleans]

Wife and I are looking into buying a gun for the sole purpose of self defense/home safety. Neither of us has owned a gun nor know anything about guns. Silly question but do gun shops usually have ranges to rent/test guns? Also, any recommendations for guns for home safety? Thanks

[Blood of Tyrants]

Some gun shops also have ranges and will rent you different firearms to try out on the range. Call and ask, you will quickly be routed to a gun shop that will meet your needs.

[Perseverando]

Yes, One for you and one for her. And soon!

[aimhigh]

For home use only, get a Mossberg 500 shotgun. 2nd choice = a Ruger GP100 revolver.

[EQAndyBuzz]

Check one of my threads on purchasing a gun. I received great information.

This thread is going to get big, fast.

[count-your-change]

For home safety: Keep the part of the gun where the bullet comes out pointed away from things/people you don’t want to shoot.

[buffaloguy]

Depending on your state you may have several nearby ranges which have rental guns.

Since you are a newbie, I would recommend a revolver. They are much easier to shoot and care for than a semi auto.

.38 special is a good caliber to start with. Good luck!

[Carriage Hill]

This thread’ll go 150 replies.

[US Navy Vet]

Check these guys out. Most gun shops LOVE to show Newbies the ropes: http://www.armsdealer.net/businesses/category/gun-shops/louisiana/new-orleans

[Jeff Chandler]

If you expect to get information about firearms on this forum then I’m afraid that you are out of luck. There is little interest in the subject at FreeRepublic.

[hope]

Bass Pro Shop.

[TheRhinelander]

Some will have test ranges, most will not. I’d recommend joining the local rod and gun club. Not everyone has the space that I do and can just set up a range on their own property.

Everyone will have different opinions on what is best. Most agree on a few things. 1. A Marlin model 60 .22 caliber rifle is a must have. 2. A good pump action 20 gauge shotgun is a must have. 3. Optionally a larger caliber scary “assault rifle” I consider a must but that’s me. I have a Saiga 7.62x39 but good luck finding anything like that now.

Anyone who tells you a hollow point .22 can’t do damage doesn’t know what they’re talking about. I personally plan on getting at least two more of them, one for son and one for wife. Tube feed. They always get under the ban radar, even Feinstein’s new bill.

Oh, and by the way, I gave all my guns away, uh, to my brother in law, yeah. That’s the ticket.

[Perseverando]

And don't forget the yard sign.

[Lurking Libertarian]

My wife and I were in the same position about two years ago. The gun shop recommended that, for first time gun owners, the easiest to learn was a revolver, so we bought a .38 Special.

Once you buy the gun, make sure you and your wife put in some practice time on a gun range. (A lesson or two wouldn't hurt, either.) A gun you haven't learned to use properly is more of a danger to you than a bad guy.

[stuck_in_new_orleans]

Link ?

[Cyber Liberty]

I don’t know the answers but you are sure as heck asking the correct questions. As a group, gun store owners are very knowledgable and will help you probe your needs. It’s not like shopping at Best Buy where the sales kids don’t know dick. Speaking of which, don’t go to Dick’s.

[al baby]

I lost all my guns and ammo in a horrible boating accident

[Uri’el-2012]

Beginners should start with NRA Certified training

I would recommend training
from an NRA Certified Instructor in

Refuse to be a victim
NRA training for women
Basic pistol
Personal protection in the home
and the newly released
Personal protection outside the home

NRA Gun Safety Rules

Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction

Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot

Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use

[TSgt]

[llevrok]

As a starter
Go to a reputable (indoor) gun range.

They usually have guns to rent so you can try different models/calibers before you buy. What you might like, your wife might not (and vice versa).They often offer shooting and gun handling courses. And I’m certain they will have an opinion on what you need or want the gun for (but remember - they are also sales people,,,)