A Gun Person’s Pet Peeves: Choosing the Right Weapon and Etiquette at the Range

As a seasoned gun owner, one of the things that irk me the most is seeing new gun owners making mistakes that reveal a lack of proper knowledge and training. This isn’t just about choosing the right weapon for the job, but also understanding the importance of proper etiquette and safety at the range. Let's dive into the pet peeves that make my eye roll the most.

Choosing the Right Handgun

When entering the world of handguns, the first mistake new owners often make is selecting a firearm based on aesthetics rather than functionality. A handgun needs to fit comfortably in your hand, which means it should be of a size that allows for quick and easy manipulation. This is why it's crucial to spend time at a shooting range with an experienced instructor to get a feel for different models.

A proper handgun should not feel too heavy, too long, or too short for your grip. Ensuring that you can draw the weapon quickly and reload efficiently is paramount. You must also consider the ammunition capacity. In a worst-case scenario, you need to ensure you have sufficient ammo to face any situation.

Remember, a handgun can look visually appealing, but until you've taken the time to shoot it, you can’t be sure if it’s the right fit for you. Investing time and effort into finding the perfect weapon is worth the effort.

Gun Etiquette 101

Another area where new gun owners fall short is in understanding proper gun etiquette. I have witnessed countless times people at the range, unfamiliar with the basics of how to handle a firearm, point the gun in all directions other than the correct direction. It's a behavior that's both dangerous and embarrassing for those around them. Experiencing and understanding gun etiquette is fundamental for safe and responsible gun ownership.

Beyond the Aesthetic: Choosing Your Firearm

There are those who, without due diligence, buy big and flashy firearms after just reading a magazine or watching a few YouTube videos. For instance, I spent two long years researching my choice of a rifle, handling dozens of different models to find one that felt just right. When someone impulsively buys a gun because it looks cool in a movie or on a gun show, it disappoints me to no end.

Every gun is a serious responsibility, and you should treat it as such. Compare and consider firearms just as you would when choosing a car. Spend the time to understand the weight, balance, fit, and function of the weapon. Precision and comfort are key, as you don't want to feel hindered by the weapon when you need it most.

Safety First and Entertaining Last

Safety is non-negotiable in the world of firearms. Ignoring this fact is not only irresponsible but also plain dangerous. Some new gun owners believe their weapons can be used solely for entertainment. Please do not fall into this trap—it's not something to be taken lightly. The power of a firearm is immense and can lead to severe consequences if mishandled.

There are countless videos online of individuals showing off their new guns by pointing them at themselves or others, completely disregarding the safety protocols. These individuals don't comprehend the magnitude of the danger they pose. To me, such behavior is unacceptable, and I have even severed friendships with people who engage in such behavior.

While I enjoy entertaining friends and engaging in activities, I have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to firearms. Safety must always come first, and the thrill and entertainment should not overshadow the gravity of responsible firearm ownership.

Overall, becoming a responsible gun owner requires patience, research, and respect for the tools in your hands. Understanding proper firearm etiquette and prioritizing safety are non-negotiable aspects of this journey. Let’s strive to follow best practices and set excellent examples for others.