Women’s Outdoor News and Avery Skipalis bring you an article covering things to consider before purchasing a firearm.
Sponsored by GLOCK
Has the thought crossed your mind to purchase a firearm, but you have no idea of where to start? If this sounds familiar, keep reading because this article is for you. However, there are many things to consider when purchasing a firearm for the first time. This article is only going to cover a handful of them. Many people make firearm purchases based on recommendations they received from their friends or family. This can be a costly mistake if the person making the recommendation doesn’t take the time to understand your needs fully or isn’t properly educated on the topic themselves.
Intended use: Determine what the intended or primary use of the firearm will be. Will you use this firearm for concealed carry, home defense, shooting sports or a combination of uses? Caliber selection should be considered and may depend on the firearm’s intended use.
Budget: Many factors may add more unexpected dollar signs to your firearm purchase. Often people only focus on the base price of the firearm. A few things to consider are the price of accessories like holsters, optics and lights, ammunition for self-defense and the range, cleaning supplies, and a proper way to secure the firearm.
Manufacturer: Set aside some time to research manufacturers or brands. Don’t select a brand based solely on what others regurgitate about that brand. Be an informed buyer and do your research as well. Only you truly know your list of dos and don’ts. Find out which manufacturer with the desired features that are still within your budget. Customer service, aftermarket support, recalls, reliability, and warranty are all areas you should research when selecting a brand. Reliability should be at the forefront due to firearms serving in a defensive capacity for many. Warranty is a factor that many consumers focus on. Knowing this information can save some heartache if you pass the firearm on to a loved one or resell it later.
Check out GLOCK’s line of firearms here.
Hopefully, this article armed you with the information you need to select your first firearm. Consider taking a list of notes with you to the gun store. These notes could also be stored in your phone. Armed with the correct information can ensure you purchase the best firearm for your needs.
Avery Skipalis is the owner of Skip’s Tactical Solutions, an organization that focuses on empowering women, men and children to make sure that no one else becomes a victim. She gained her firearms experience from the military where she’s been a military firearms instructor for 10.5 years. She’s also a certified NRA rifle and pistol instructor and Glock Advanced Armorer since 2015. She’s attended Sig Sauer Academy, FNH, Special Operations Command Armorers courses as well as multiple Advanced Shooting Schools across the United States. She resides in Florida with her husband and 2 kids. She’s currently serving in the United States Air Force and loves sharing her passion with others. She thinks it’s important that women also feel like they’re in control of their own safety. View all posts by Avery Skipalis
