One thing that many first-time gun buyers have in common is some apprehension about going into a gun store. So, if you feel in any way nervous or intimidated by the idea of going into a gun shop or gun department in a sporting goods store, you’re not alone!
But, now that we’ve acknowledged this possible concern, let’s dispel it. We all know you can run into poorly trained or rude salespeople in any type of store these days. But, in general, you should find the folks working behind the counter in a gun shop to be friendly and interested in helping you find and purchase your first firearm. One thing almost all people working in gun stores have in common is an interest in firearms. And if there’s a common trait of people with this interest, it’s that we like to talk about it! What I’m saying is the folks working in the gun shop almost certainly are firearms enthusiasts who enjoy talking about guns. They are essentially the perfect people for you to talk to about your interest in buying your first gun.
That said, I think I can narrow down the most common fears of first timers when they are about to walk into a gun shop.
- I don’t know the rules
- I don’t want to ask dumb questions
- I don’t want to feel looked down on if I don’t know that much
Let’s knock those apprehensions off the list.
I don’t know the rules
This one is a very legitimate question and one you shouldn’t feel strange about not knowing. Gun stores often have different rules about what customers can do when handling a firearm. Don’t feel at all strange when you ask how you’re allowed to handle a firearm in the store. Anyone entering a new store for the first time won’t know the specific rules of that shop, until they ask. So, don’t feel weird about this at all!
I don’t want to ask dumb questions
I know it’s easy to say, but honestly, there are no dumb questions. Especially when you’re new to firearms. Most people working in gun shops have been talking to people in your situation for as long as they’ve worked there. They’ve probably already heard every possible question you can think of. So, ask away. Answering all your questions is quite literally what they are there for.
I don’t want to feel looked down on if I don’t know that much
No one likes to be looked down on. I totally get it. And, I can’t promise that you won’t ever run into a jerk working at a gun shop who will be rude or dismissive. But, in my experience, most of the folks you’ll meet in a gun store will be welcoming, open, and happy to help you learn more about firearms. At one point, they were exactly where you are: new to firearms. So, don’t spend time worrying about this one. The chances are, you’ll find very friendly people at your local gun store. And, if for some reason you don’t, just cross that shop off your list and find another.
A Few Gun Store Tips
- When a salesperson asks if you want to look at anything while you’re browsing, take the opportunity to tell them what you’re looking for.
- There’s nothing wrong with letting them know you’re a first-time buyer. In fact it can help them give you better service.
- There really aren’t any dumb questions. So, don’t feel strange asking the questions on your mind.
- Ask about their handling rules. Can you rack the slide? Can you dry fire (i.e. pull the trigger)?
- Don’t feel weird asking to see a gun. That’s literally what the salesperson is there for. Even if you’re not planning on buying, you should handle as many guns you might be considering as possible.
- Don’t be afraid to pick up the gun and hold it up as if you’re aiming at a target. However, follow the store’s rules and your basic gun safety rules. Treat the gun like it’s loaded, even when you know it isn’t. Keep the barrel pointed away from people and your finger off the trigger until you are going to dry fire (if it’s allowed by the store).