4 Things to Know Before Buying a Firearm
In America, over 32% of the population are gun owners.
Buying a firearm can be a big decision for a household. Whether you are buying for a hobby or personal safety, there are lots of considerations you need to make before you head to the gun store. If you are contemplating buying a gun but are unsure of what steps you need to take, keep reading our guide for some buying tips.
We will take you through some key things you need to think about before making that purchase.
1. Know Your Local Legislation
Gun laws are set constitutionally, but there are additional rules about what you can buy and where you can buy from that change from state to state. Owning a gun is a big responsibility, and you need to make sure that you remain legal while doing so. A reputable dealer such as someone with e Federal Firearms License (FFL) will be able to advise you on what is legal in your current state.
However, don’t forget to do a bit of research yourself online, as each state will publish its laws for you to find and understand. Also, if you are traveling with a gun, the rules may change as you pass into a new legislative area. This also includes flying with a gun which has its own complications, and you need to research it thourghly.
2. Always Assume a Gun is Loaded
When handling a new firearm, there is one rule that you must obey above all others: assume that the gun is loaded. Never point a gun at yourself or a target without an intention to shoot. Always keep your finger off the trigger and only place it there when you intend to pull it.
Every time you pick up your gun, assume that it is a dangerous weapon that could discharge live ammo if you pull the trigger. This mindset could save lives.
3. Take a Firearms Safety Course
If this is your first time buying a firearm, you may want to consider undergoing a firearms safety course. There is no legal requirement to do so, but education about handling and purchasing a firearm could be essential to keeping you and your family safe.
You could do this with your son or daughter to encourage them to understand weapon safety from the beginning and get them more engaged with your hobby.
4. Invest in a Gun Safe
You should always keep your guns safely stored in your home. If you keep your handgun in a drawer accessible to young hands, there could be an accident. Guns are not toys, but young children may not see them that way, and they will be curious about your weapons with their friends.
Buying a gun safe will keep your guns out of the hands of anyone you do not see as suitable to wield a weapon. In the case of a home invasion, this could be an intruder. By keeping your guns under lock and key, you are protecting those you care about and keeping your weapons just for you to use.
Tips for Buying a Firearm
Buying a firearm can be a big decision as there are a lot of legal and safety considerations that you need to be aware of before the purchase. It is not as simple as walking into a store and picking up a gun. However, hopefully, this guide has given you some pre-buying tips that will help you stay safe as you enjoy your shooting hobby.
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