|
How should I go about buying my first firearm?
I basically know nothing about guns other than a bit of basic research I've done online. I've never used a gun before.
Should I go to a range and practice with different guns before deciding what to buy? Or should I buy a rifle or shotgun immediately, and then practice with that? I would be able to stockpile ammo quicker this way I think. Should I bother going to a pistol permit class, or should I stick with rifles and shotguns where I don't need a license? I've read all of the previous threads about buying firearms, and I don't recall these specific questions being brought up. I am considering buying a rifle like an AK 47 and some ammo immediately, just in case things turn bad in a short period of time. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
*Warning I am not an expert and have only purchased one firearm so far.*
Let me start off by encouraging you to get your pistol permit, if your state allows concealed carry. A gun on hand is better than 10 guns at home. That aside, a shotgun is generally considered the best firearm for home defense. As far as rifles go.. If you are anticipating mutant zombie bikers (MZB's) some sort of assault rifle would be handy. I don't know enough to recommend any particular one. :bandit: |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
My 2 pennies
If possible, try out differiant guns. Personally, I have smaller hands and some pistols don't feel comfortable to me. For a combat or a home defense situation I would want my firearm to be an extension of myself. Yes. Get a pistol, a rifle, and a shotgun. Then practice not only your shooting, but how to clean and load/unload. Classes don't hurt. If your state/locale requires carry permits, get one. Oh yeah, consider the wife and kids in all this (if you have either/or). Take them with you and get them as skilled and educated as you are. My 45/70 Sharps is worthless to my girlfriend. Wouldn't even make a good club. So, it stays in the gun safe while 9mm stuff is stashed around the house. Jmho DBD |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Start by taking a class so that you develop good habits and skills right from the start instead of having to unlearn bad habits later. Then go to a range and practice with a variety of guns.
Then next thing you need to do is decide what you're buying the gun for. The arguments about the best SHTF guns will go on for pages and pages! Most people seem to consider range, stopping power (another buzz phrase that can generate pages of argument), and portability (if you foresee bugging out on foot, don't choose the heaviest gun and ammo). Obviously, ammo supply and cost is a big factor, which is why you should learn to reload your own and stock up on reloading supplies. The usual "survival arsenal" breaks down something like this: - A .22 or .17 rifle or handgun (Ruger Mark II is a classic .22 target pistol). Basically, .22 ammo is cheap, so you can plink away for hours without hurting the wallet, and it's great for hunting squirrels and other small furry pot-fillers. Plus, you can arm your assault wheelbarrow with it (sorry, stupid GK joke). -Pistol: Lots of argument here, too. This is your extreme close-in, feel- naked-without-it-on-the-hip weapon that is just right for those times when your hands might be too busy to carry a rifle around your home. The most popular calibers seem to be .45 and 9 mm (inexpensive). This is where you really want to try out different guns to see what fits your hand best. I have quite a few pistols, but my hands down favorites are 1911s...just something about how it feels in the hand, like a gun is supposed to feel. -Close-in to medium-range: Shotguns and assault-style rifles. Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 seem to reign in popularity in the shotgun category. Popular rifles are the SKS (inexpensive, effective, and fun to shoot), the AR15 and CAR15 (lightweight, accurate, fun to shoot, but the battle rifle boys will make fun of your "pea shooter"), and the AK47. I have at least one of each, but I think the SKS is the most fun to shoot with the AR running a close second. The AK (SAR) is kind of a workhorse of a rifle. -Battle rifles: Mostly .308s. These are your long-range, sniping kind of rifles. The M1A, M14, and the FAL seem to be top contenders in this category. May I just say: M1As rock! Mine never gets left behind in the safe when I go to the range. -Hunting rifles: If you foresee hunting larger game than squirrels, get some experience now and buy a rifle that fits the needs for the game and terrain where you're likely to be. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
First off the AK47 is a great rifle for anyone, especally a novice. Not alot of parts, easy to clean, super reliable. That's probably the best semi-auto rifle to reccomend, it's also very inexpensive. Ammo prices even at 180 a case (currently at 140) is vry cheap as far as assault rifle ammo goes.
For generic advice, get some sort of training, either from a knowledgable friend or professionally. Learn your weapons, where the controls are so you can do it half asleep and w/o looking (your life may depend on it some night). IMO, the priorites should be a pistol and a rifle first. shotguns have a much more limited role in a shtf senario, which from your post is what your main reason for a firearm is. Get a decent pistol (9mm, 40 s&w, .45auto), I'd suggest 9mm, 11 cents a round to train with and inexpensive to stockpile. Also, 9mm gives your pistol better reach than 45 IMO, and .40s&w is IMO a poor subsitute for the original 10mm (too expensive to stockpile for a newbie IMO). You don't have to buy anything top of the line, a ruger P94 is dirt cheap right, a springfield XD, beretta 92fs... those would suit you well. Rifle, we got that covered with a AK47, get something like a SAR1 or romak. under 400 bucks and they will do everything a 800 dollar AK will do. Consider a AK74 (like a SAR2) chambered in 5.45x39 if your getting older or have a spouse who may not be able to handle the larger 7.62x39 (which isn't that bad compared to .308). Ammo is the same if not cheaper and 30 round mags are cheaper as well. After that, I'd get a .22lr rifle and pistol. Marlin 795, ruger 10/22 or mossberg plinkster for the rifle. For the .22lr pistol a ruger mark II or walther p22 would be a good choice. Shotguns (a low priority IMO), a mossberg 500 can be ought new in the box for 250 bucks out the door. A awesome 12 ga. That should be your first thought when buying a shotgun. hunting rifles, if you already bought an AK (either one) and .22lr rifle you have all you need for almost any game in the 48 continious states. while 5.45x39 isn't approved pre-shtf for deer hunting in most states, it is a very effective round when placed properly. Low priority IMO. If you want one, get a .308 H&K G3 clone (such as a century centurion 99). You have a battlerifle and hunting rifle in one. They'll group 1.5-2 MOA at 100 yards with match ammo, SA surplus will hold within 2-3". What state you are in will also determine what you can buy and if you need (by law) to take a firearms class. Good luck and be warned, firearms are addicitve. ;) |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
If you're looking for an ak47, most of your choices are going to be Romanian.
Read through this site http://www.gunsnet.net/Linx310/index.shtml It has all the info you will need about aks. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Congratulations on your decision. I made the same decision this year. The firearms class is mandatory in my state to own a firearm. I just took it. It was conducted by a local revolver club and certified by the NRA. This class was extremely valuable and fun. They recommend starting with a .22 because they are cheap to use and more accurate for practice. Then you can always start upgrading from there. We also practiced with 9mm, .44 magnum, and .357 magnum. I found the magnums were almost too powerful for anything I would need them for. They really have a kick to them. I suspect they would blow an assailant's head or limb completely off. Then you would have that mess to clean up. While a .22 would send a clear message and could be lethal if you are a good shot and know where to aim. Also a .22 can be used for small game hunting. You can also use the same ammo in a .22 pistol and a .22 rifle. They say you don't want too many different types of ammo to deal with.
|
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Thanks for the advise, I'll probably look to get some training at the range where I live.
|
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
I made the move to buy a firearm very recently myself. I got a Ruger 10/22 with a scope, and I would recommend you do the same. 550 hollow point cartridges for $8 at wal-mart can't be beat.
Next, I plan on getting a 9mm handgun, probably a Glock or Springfield XD. I also want a SKS (since AKs are not available in california) and probably a shotgun at some point. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
I agree with most of what Fiat Mutiny has said.
I would buy a handgun first because most states have a provision to carry one in some fashion in your car. I would also get a concealed weapons permit as quickly as possible. As far as getting a rifle or shotgun, everything would depend on what you were trying to do. Shotguns are great indoors but aren't the greatest weapon in the world for engaging that local gang on a rampage during a breakdown in civil order. An assault rifle or carbine is better for that. If you live on a hill in open country you might want a fullhouse .30cal rifle with a scope for defending your castle from a distance. There are quite a few variables and personal preference is definately among them. Lately I have been regaining an appreciation for the pistol paired up with a pistol caliber carbine that shares the same ammo. If you look into a Kel-Tec Sub-2000 you could save yourself several logistical headaches while simultaneously extending your effective range out to 100+ yards. Your Sub-2000 could share ammo and magazines with one of several pistols so what you stockpile early on would be useful with both your longarm and sidearm, if you have a gf or buddy with you could act as a team with only those two weapons and be able to toss a spare mag to eachother if needed, etc. AK's are really good weapons. Some people swear by the Romanians, I like the SAR's ok but the WASR's leave me flat(others are very happy with theirs). Veprs are kind of heavy but very accurate, Arsenal's milled AK's are somewhat expensive but of very high quality. The SKS is a suprisingly good weapon as well, if you get one stock up on stripper clips. I've seen some guys who could really rock their SKS with stripper clips and the standard SKS stripper clip chest pouch, costing only a few dollars when you find them, will hold 200rds on clips. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Get a subscription to Gun Tests. No bias, no advertisements, only straight skinny. Aug 06 for example give high marks to SA XD 45.
Personally, 45 ACP is my favorite. 230 grains of serious man stopper. Have a Springfield Armory Mil-Spec M1911A1 with Crimson Trace laser grips and love it. Have a short barrel 870 riot pump with Star Tac barrel mount flashlight for home defense. Will not put a flash light on a handgun. Don't want to have to point the muzzle at the boy when he comes in late from a date. Plus, some would argue that a weapon mounted flashlight only gives away your position. A hand held provides for better deception when used with a hand gun. Not a concern with the 12ga. If I need to grab it, and if the sound of racking the slide has not scared off the bad guys, then they will soon know where I am anyway. By the time they get sillouetted, they'll get perforated as well. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
I wouldn't suggest that you get a gun. It's costly and unpatriotic. The government is there to defend you anyway. Only terrorists own guns, obedient citizen would never even get this idea in his mind.
|
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Quote:
|
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Some excellent advice on this thread!!!
Lots of pros and cons....lots of good opinions! Now, here's a suggestion - not in lieu of classes, they are useful and important - but I have found DVDs on each of my various guns which include operation, cleaning, even breakdown (something many of us will never really do, but if TSHTF, isn't is nice to be able to see and have that info!), and points on shooting. For those of us who are not able to get to ranges or go shooting on a regular basis - just being able to pop them in and watch them a couple of times a year is a great refresher course! And they always go over safety basics which is something I think everyone needs to hear now and then, no matter how much we think we know them! If anyone is interested, PM me and I will give you the link! ALSO - a couple of other points not covered........> First and foremost, I bought handguns (years ago, and yes, I have had to use them but never shot them at anyone - just seeing them has caused the bad guys to take off) I bought a Glock in 45 first, discovered it was way too big for my then-girlfriend to handle, and bought a Glock in 9mm for her (she's gone, the gun is still here) and, after talking to dozens of police and detectives and reading hundred of articles, ended up with a Ladysmith and Wesson in 9mm for back up - its just a bit smaller than the regular 9mm but its easy to conceal! Figured, between the three, I was using the two most common ammos, and the easiest to find if TSHTF or the stores were locked and I had to borrow (tho I have plenty of ammo now and will not have to borrow) THEN - When I bought my shotgun, I thought, well, that's good for keeping the bad guys and gangs out of the house and off the back porch.........then I got to thinking......maybe two would be a better thing to do! I got them at a great price but my thinking was - a) while using one, another family member could be loading the other; b) what if those trying to get our food or metals decided to split into two groups and try to come in thru the back, now another family member could protect the other side of the house and c) if TSHTF it would be very hard to replace guns and shotguns because the stores would probably be locked up (as we've seen in LA doing the riots) and if, by chance BOTH shotguns were damaged or jammed, it might be possible to replace parts enough to make one working shotgun. Hence, Yin and Yang - the two shotguns! (Yin, the male, is loaded with buckshot! Yang, the female, is loaded with worse!) I do not at this time have a rifle, tho I am considering it, and if I lived in a more rural area I would certainly have gotten one by now, but around here it would be, at least for now, overkill.......I live in a city with limited crime, mostly older people, and no terrorists......at least for now, I feel the shotguns and handguns would cover most of what I would have to deal with. That's my two cents........others here have made great suggestions........ Whatever you do - learn your weapon, and always practice the basic safety rules. Cheers! |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
I am no expert but here are my thoughts.
First buy a pistol. Preferably a cheap but good quality 9mm like a CZ 75B. Remember that the point of a pistol is close quarters self defense. Get your CCW and practice more. Then if you want move up to a 40 or 45 but make sure you are comfortable with a 9mm first. Next get a rifle and remember that the point of a rifle is reach. Personally I think the best rifle would be some form of bolt action. Don't feel like you are missing out because it is not semi-auto. Although I'm not knocking Kalashnikov's or the like I just think in a rifle it is unnecessary. I feel if you develop both these skill then a shotgun becomes unnecessary. Something to take into consideration. I see an advantage in having a rifle and pistol in the same caliber because then you don't need to carry around two forms of ammo in a SHTF situation. An example would be a wheel gun in .357 mag or .44 mag and a lever action carbine. Just my 2 cents. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Take lessons as to how to handle a firearm then go to a gun show and buy your gun or guns either under the table or those walking around selling theirs....... but of course I never done that myself, I own no guns :wink:
|
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Hand slap for the "under the table" comment. Spoken like a true Brady bunch gun grabber. There are no laws against a private sale nor should there be. Freedom means rule of law and respect for private property. My guns are my private property, and if I want to sell one to a neighbor or friend, it is nobody's bidness but mine and theirs. End of discussion.
There are too many laws taking away too many of our liberties. D'ya think maybe some should be repealed?? You can start with the GCA, gun control act, of 1936 which was modelled after Hitler's Enabling Act. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
I took his "under the table" comment to be in reference to those gun dealers who sell a gun sans paperwork from their dealer's booth at a gun show. If it's the vendor's personal gun, I don't have a problem with it (of course, I don't believe there should be paperwork tying a gun to a buyer at all), but I'd guess the person running the gun show would have a big problem with it and that it's something dealers agree not to do at a show. In that regard, it would be an "under the table" transaction, not necessarily because of the federal laws but because of the dealer's (presumed) agreement with the show.
You can hardly call him a Brady Buncher when he just recommended buying from someone privately selling a gun at a show! |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
:aetsch: Hey Maddie.... lighten up buddy. Just a friendly poke. My point was that we need to stop using the jargon of the enemy, eg Brady bunch. You know, things like, gun show loopholes, under the table, etc. I just sold two hand guns at a local show, and have bought one as well. It's all on the up and up, and the show hosts have absolutely no problem with it.
Hey Ponce, you know I luv ya. :coolbeer: |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Because of the "up and up" if there is paper work you will be the first one to loose your weapons ....... if they know about them you will loose them.
|
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
that is L O S E your weapons. I don't want loose weapons, I want 'em tight.
:proud: |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
A rose by any other name?....... still you will "lose" your weapon :beer:
|
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
The first thing you need to realize is that all guns are dangerous. Sure, they may act like inert objects, but while you sleep, they will sneak out of the closet, load themselves full of ammo, turn the safety off, enter your bedroom and discharge!
How do I know this? Politicians have told me so! |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Bomber,
I won't get into the "which gun is best" discussion. That's been beaten to death, and there really is no single answer. What I do want to add (or re-iterate) is that if and when you do get a gun, get some training from someone who knows what they are doing. I've done a lot of teaching for firearms qualifications. Can you guess who the best, or most easily trained shooters are? Those who have never shot before. It is much easier to teach good shooting form and habits than it is to break bad habits. The best gun for you is the one that you have access to, that you can handle correctly and safely, and with which you can hit your intended target, be that a squirrel on a log or someone intent on harming you or a loved one. Learn how to handle it, learn how to shoot it, and learn when to use it. And always remember that once the hammer falls, that bullet is not coming back no matter how bad you want it to. Welcome to the world of gun ownership. :clap2: |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Bomber, if you want any advice on specific firearms later on let us know. We'll let you know if you are making a good choice*
*Not a pissing match that gLock is better than a Springfield XD, but a level analisis that both guns would serve you very well... unlike the jennings which could very likely explode in your hands ;) Oh yeah, .45auto is antiquated :aetsch: |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Quote:
|
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
1 Attachment(s)
Quote:
Attachment 19408 |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
My gun buying plan: Pleaset give me your input and suggestions.
1. 9mm handgun - purchased In order I plan to get them: 2. SKS (Looks like a neat cheap rifle.) 3. Pump action 12ga shotty (Skeet, game, home defense) 4. .22 handgun for some plinking fun (I may pass on this.) 5. Nothing! I can't spend ALL of my money on guns. I probably won't bother with a .22 rifle. I have a .22 pellet rifle that should serve quite nicely for small game. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Noelephant:
Just keep your primary application in mind. You wouldn't play 18 holes with only a 9 iron. Pick your weapons accordingly. A 12ga for home defense will have a high capacity magazine, short barrel, cylinder or modified choke and possibly a pistol grip. For clay pigeons, or wing shooting there are better solutions. Same with large game like white tail. Get a second barrel, rifled slug with rifle sights. Whatever you buy make sure it takes 2 3/4, 3 and 3.5 inch shells. No point in limiting your choices of available ammo. More 2 3/4 inch with 00 buck will fit in the magazinem, and will work just fine in close quarters. 3 and 3.5 for small game like turkey, etc. Larger shell size equals more pellets and powder. Again, for home defense, short barrel for maximum pattern spread. On the SKS, I'd say spend some time shooting and reloading. Most folks would not choose stripper clip reloads when under stress. Look for one that takes high capacity magazines. Or better yet buy an MIA SOCOM, short barreled .308 with red dot sight. Lastly, don't buy cheap magazines. You don't want a feed failure at a critical time. Buy twice as many as you think you should have. And lots of ammo. |
Re: How should I go about buying my first firearm?
Quote:
I didnt say anything about a Garand. I would not recommend an M1 unless you want to lose a thumb due to lack of practice. M1A SOCOMs are great for self defense due to a short barrel, picatinney rail options, high capacity, and 7.62 x 51 NATO round (Win .308). Readily available with excellent knock down power. 20 and 30 round magazines are available. I've read where Marines in Iraq prefer the older M-14 to the .223 weapons issued, for longer range and higher percentage one shot kills. It also can be had a lot cheaper than you say. http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...?Item=56894041 You can buy an M1 Garand for less that $1k also. Nothing wrong with an SKS. 100,000 Chicoms can't be wrong. :proud: |
| All times are GMT -4. The time now is 10:18 AM. |
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.4
Copyright ©2000 - 2010, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Copyright = None use it and Link to GIM