FACTORS TO CONSIDER IN FIREARMS PURCHASING
This segment will focus upon and serve as an introductory guide with factors to consider in firearms purchasing.
.
If you are considering purchasing a firearm, I suggest you consider several factors prior to making a trip to your local gun retailer.
You should have first clearly identified for which purpose you intend to purchase the firearm. Is this firearm for:
1. recreational target practice;
2. competition;
3. hunting;
4. personal defense;
Or perhaps for a combination of purposes
Consideration of these factors may help determine whether a certain firearm best meets your needs.
In today’s market, the majority of major firearm manufacturers produce firearms in each of the above categories which can be used in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Whether you are a new or seasoned firearms buyer, you should always consider your budget and if you should purchase a new versus used firearm. Most of the major firearm manufacturers have very generous warranties. Some of them may even recondition certain brands of firearms for little to no cost.
The next issue which one should consider is ergonomics. How well does the firearm fit you as an individual? In today’s market, there are a number of firearms to fit individuals of various body types, sizes, and strengths.
The issue of ergonomics also goes to the key issue of safety and whether you can safely handle the size of the firearm you intend to purchase. Not all of us have the build of the popular character “Dirty Harry” and cannot safely control a 44 Magnum. But there is a wide array of firearms suited to almost anyone from 22 caliber to 45 caliber and beyond.
In addition, the fact that Uncle Ted loved his classic 45 caliber M1911 pistol does not mean it is going to be the handgun for you. Neither does the fact that Charlie’s Angels carried the Smith & Wesson model 49 bodyguard mean it is not the gun for you..
You should also not be misled by the name. The Smith & Wesson Ladysmith is an extremely compact 38 special which can be comfortably carried by both men and women.
Although some may disagree, what should not be considered is aesthetics – unless you are purchasing the firearm for collection purposes.
If you are purchasing a firearm for use in the above four categories it will develop wear marks, scratches, and blemishes … arguably all of which will give it character. Cuteness and sexiness is better reserved for clothing and jewelry. A firearm, regardless of its appearance, is a deadly weapon capable of killing and causing serious bodily injury.
The final factor to be considered is the Massachusetts regulations concerning firearms ownership. Massachusetts has different laws regulating whether the firearm is a small capacity handgun or a large capacity handgun, or rifle, or shotgun.
I highly suggested that when you go to purchase a firearm, you take someone with you who has experience with firearms.
If, while in the gun store you handle a firearm, take care not to pull the trigger, or point the muzzle of the firearm in the direction of any other individual in that store. Make sure that the gun is always pointed in a safe direction, and never place your finger on the trigger unless the sales clerk gives you permission to do so.
In considering the purchase make sure that you are able to safely load the firearm and/or magazine. If the firearm is a semiautomatic also make sure that you can safely disassemble the firearm into its major components. This is sometimes known as field stripping and is necessary for proper cleaning and maintenance.
If purchasing the firearm for personal protection you need to consider whether you can safely and comfortably carry the firearm concealed on your person. If the size or the weight of the firearm is too bulky, or you cannot comfortably carry the firearm concealed, you will have a tendency not to carry it.
Do your Internet research. Almost every firearm manufacturer has its own webpage which offers invaluable information. Once you have settled on one or two firearms, consider going on YouTube to look for reviews and evaluations. Remember that these reviews and evaluations are one person’s opinion to be balanced against other reviews and opinions.
Although the number of magazine stands have greatly decreased, they are still available and offer the opportunity for you to browse through and purchase magazines which focus on handguns, firearms, hunting and shooting.
If you have the opportunity, look for a gun club that may have a public day where you can visit and observe various styles of firearms being used.
Also consider visiting a firing range/gun club which permits rental of firearm for use on premises.
Consider taking your spouse or significant other with you when you when you do your shopping for your initial firearm purchase. The more comfortable this other person feels with your purchase, the greater your chances will be for your second purchase. Their involvement cannot be minimized as their support for you and your purchase will hopefully lead to them providing you with accessories as gifts and possibly their own firearm.
Hopefully, the above information has provided you with some basic insight concerning factors to consider in purchasing your first firearm.
DISCLAIMER: This and other segments posted on this website are offered for informational, educational and discussion purposes only and is not offered as legal advice. All product names are the property of their respective owners/companies.