buying a gun is like buying a car

The idea to write ‘How to Buy Your First Gun’ emerged naturally, after teaching many people gun safety and gun handling basics after they asked for advice and help buying their first gun. The request is almost always simply to provide advice about which gun to purchase, but I offer to back up and start with safety and handling intro.  Because….  

Buying a gun is very similar to buying a car.  Both provide huge benefits and capabilities; both can be exciting and daunting choosing among all the various types and features. But, like buying a car, buying a gun means you’re about to acquire equipment that requires knowledge about its use and safe operation.  Also, like buying a car, you should have some upfront understanding of the additional responsibilities and costs you’re signing up for, in this case training you need to plan for and ancillary equipment you need to purchase in tandem. 

If you don’t know how to drive, buying a car and then driving it without training would be irresponsible and dangerous.  Buying a car without knowing you’ll need car insurance, or to plan for spending on fuel, oil changes and tires would be an unwelcome surprise.  Buying a gun benefits from the same knowledge, foresight and planning.