Where to start if you are looking to buy a firearm for the first time
Because we run a popular range (with our attendance growing daily) we frequently get questions from people about how to buy a firearm. It can be a daunting task for those who have no introduction to the shooting world. The fact is, in some segments of society, firearms are shunned and people might feel like they are doing something wrong in pursuing ownership. Of course, we believe it is the right of every law-abiding citizen to own a firearm and to that end, let us walk you through the first-time ownership process.
Getting FSC in California
In the State of California, to purchase a firearm, one will need a Firearms Safety Certificate. This can be obtained from any firearm retailer. The prospective buyer must read a pamphlet that outlines basic safety protocol. Then the individual must take a multiple-choice test to show they understand the material. There is a State mandated fee for this. Once satisfactorily completed, the FSC is awarded and the person is allowed to purchase a firearm. The exam is rather simple and the entire process usually goes fairly quickly for the average reader.
Choosing a firearm
Next the individual needs to decide what type of firearm to look for. The three basic firearm types are rifle, pistol, and shotgun. Each one has a specific function, and while all can be pressed into service for a variety of tasks, the inherent strengths and weaknesses of the platform are critical to the final choice. Handguns are great for short range use and for ease of carry or concealment. Rifles provide excellent range and significant energy to the target. Shotguns, while unwieldy and of low capacity, can shoot multiple pellets in one trigger pull, or a large single projectile for devastating effect.
What you intend to use the gun for, will determine which of the three to pursue. I would not want to use a handgun for bird hunting. A shotgun is difficult to conceal and rifles can be cumbersome in narrow or closed spaces. Your mission or perceived needs drives the decision. Keep in mind, in America there is no limit to the number of firearms one can own. As such, if you purchase a handgun and later decide you want to hunt with a rifle, you can purchase a rifle. And if that purchase occurs within five years of getting your FSC, you will not need a new certificate.
Setting a budget
Once the type of firearm is selected, budget must be set. This will help determine the parameters for shopping. A new firearm owner will do well to speak with others to get their impressions. Go to a range that allows rentals. At CTA we rent handguns, rifles and shotguns so the prospective buyer can make an informed decision.
Training to shoot
Getting formal training will also help. Not only does this give the new buyer a solid foundation on safety and marksmanship skills, it also helps the buyer become familiar with the workings of various guns, to find out if one style suits them better.
Check out CTA training courses.
Buying the firearm
Shop some place that will allow you to handle various guns and don’t buy the first one you handle without looking at others in your price range. For many, buying a firearm is a significant financial purchase and it should be made with some hands-on research. Also consider what it costs to practice and train with the gun.
If I had to limit my advice to two things, it would be rent a variety of firearms before you buy one. And get training with the firearm once you have purchased it. Good luck and we will see you at the range.
About the writer
Mike Lazarus
Military and Law Enforcement Veteran
FBI certified firearm instructor
MP5 and Sub Machine gun instructor
Defensive tactics instructor
