Recently, firearms sales spiked more than 80 percent, dwarfing the typical number of sales from even a year prior. People want to own firearms that make them feel safe and protected, and there are gun enthusiasts clubs opening up all over the country. You'll want to follow the tips in this article to make sure you're purchasing whatever kind of gun you need.
Think about and research handguns, rifles, and shotguns
Do your homework on which guns are most popular and reviewed before you set out to make a purchase. According to the National Rifle Association (NRA), the AR-15 is the most purchased rifle among firearm consumers in the United States. In terms of handguns, the 9mm is a very popular option, especially since it is often used by law enforcement agencies. Buying a shotgun is great for home protection since the penetration is lower and you won't have to worry as much about stray bullets.
Think in terms of the gun caliber and have some prices and budgets in your head. You can expect to pay between $250 and $500 on a handgun from a licensed dealer. Rifles can easily cost more than $1,000 — especially if they are sophisticated and with excellent features.
Find a shop that has new and pre-owned firearms for sale
Once you begin learning about firearms, you'll need to also get to know the shops that sell them. Search for firearms shops that are Better Business Bureau (BBB) certified and highly graded. Weed out those that already have poor grades and reputations, and look into shops in-person and online that have a fresh selection.
Shop with gun dealers that are knowledgable since you'll definitely have questions if you're a novice gun owner. Preferably, choose a gun shop that also includes a range so that you can try them out before making a purchase.
Get your paperwork in order and learn how to use and care for your firearm
Every state will have laws on which guns you can purchase and how long a waiting period you might have after the completion of the sale. You'll need to buy a license for the gun and make sure that you keep it properly registered over the years. You may also have to pay about $40 for background checks, transfers, and other sorts of red tape.
Follow these tips as you begin reaching out to different firearms dealers. For more information about firearms for sale, contact a firearms dealer today.