woman shooting handgun at range with ear muffs

Target Practice for Beginners: 3 Vital Shooting Range Tips You Should Know

Imagine this: Your friend has asked you to accompany them to the shooting range this weekend.

There’s just one problem… you literally have no idea about target practice at a shooting range. 

man shooting rifle with scope on range

The popularity of target shooting has led to a few therapeutic benefits, including increased self-confidence and improved hand-eye coordination.

And, while these are great, we almost forgot… you’re still worried about not looking like a beginner during the target practice session!

Below, we’ll discuss a few strategies and tips you should know to ensure an enjoyable and stress-free experience at the shooting range.

Shooting Range Tip #1: Always Prioritize Safety

target showing through rifle scope

IBISWorld reports that the revenue generated from safety equipment was over USD twenty-one billion dollars in 2024.

When it comes to the gun range, beginner safety gear should include the following:

  • Protective eyewear. (Shields eyes from debris and the muzzle flash.)
  • Earmuffs and earplugs. (Guards the ears from gunfire’s high decibel levels.)

You might also consider:

  • Comfortable shooting vest. (Keeps the gear organized.)
  • Gloves and closed-toe shoes. (Good-quality ones that allow a better grip.)

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Safety doesn’t stop there. As a beginner, you must know a few things about firearm safety. According to the The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), these tips include the following:

  • Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
  • Unload the guns when not in use and keep your finger off the trigger.
  • Always keep the safety on when not using the gun.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Use the right ammunition.
  • Clear the barrel of any obstructions before firing.

Apart from this, learn more about the gun you’re using. This includes its handling and mechanical characteristics.  



Tip #2: Explore Firearm Options and Choose Wisely

gun belt on man

A shooting range will often have the following firearms that you can choose from:

Beginners should choose a firearm that suits their skill level and intended use. For instance, rifles are ideal for sport shooting and hunting. When choosing, ascertain the firearm’s caliber, take note of the grip, etc. 

Some beginner weapons you can choose from include the following:

  • A manageable .22 caliber rifle or pistol because of its low recoil and easy controls. 
  • Semi-automatic handguns and revolvers can also be a versatile option for beginners for their reliability and simplicity.
  • LWRC AR-15 due to its adaptable and customizable features. 
  • Many beginners will be intrigued by the LWRC AR-15 rifles. Before trying one out on the gun range, you should first learn more here about their modular design, light weight, and versatility. According to Xtreme Guns & Ammo, this rifle can come with a proprietary gas piston system that ensures precision and exceptional reliability. (Upgrades include a one-piece nickel-boron-coated bolt and cold-hammer-forged spiral fluted barrel.)


Tip #3: Understanding the Commands At The Shooting Range

However, long-range, large caliber rifles (exceeding .80) are often prohibited.

youth shooting shotgun at range

NRA states that it’s crucial to understand range commands if you’re new to target practice. The common ones given by the officer include the following:

  • Range hot: It means shooting is about to commence. 
  • Load: You can load the firearm once on the firing line.
  • Commence firing: You can start shooting at the target.
  • Cease firing: You must stop firing immediately and remove your hand from the trigger.
  • Range cold: You must unload or reload the firearms. 

Before you start target practice, remember to: 

  • Assume a stable stance by placing your feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Lean your body forward and keep your knees bent slightly. 
  • Grip the gun firmly with both hands, but keep your shoulders relaxed. 
  • Focus on sight alignment to get a centered and clear target range. 
  • Breathe properly and gently squeeze the trigger.

When pulling the trigger, ensure that it’s controlled and smooth. Always avoid jerking the firearm off the target. 




Final Thoughts

Target range shooting can be a fun and therapeutic, but can be dangerous if you aren’t aware of certain target practice tips. So, be sure to do your homework, be prepared and alert, and prioritize safety when handling any firearm.

Safe shooting!

gun store sign for firearms and ammo

It’s About Trust | How To Find Gun Shops

When it comes to buying a firearm, where you buy can be just as crucial as what you buy.

Gun stores are vast and varied, and searching for the right one can be a tricky process. The bottom line is that you’re looking for a seller who values compliance and quality advice and is a champion for safe gun ownership.

Look For Certifications

Sure, every gun shop needs to follow the law. But the best ones go a step further. They’re often part of larger organizations like the National Shooting Sports Foundation and in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.

shooting at gun range

Subject Matter Experts

A great gun shop will have staff who aren’t just familiar with their stock but are experts on firearms in general.

People passionate about their craft always want to understand every nuance related to their products. So, whether you’re into the latest hunting rifles or have a thing for vintage firearms, your gun shop should be able to discuss what best suits your needs as well as safety features, and guide you through maintenance and storage options.

If you’re talking to someone who doesn’t know the answers to your questions, such as which caliber might be best for you, it might be best to move on and find another seller.



Custom Services

The best gun shops often offer custom services like gunsmithing, modifications, custom fitting, or even personalized training sessions. This level of service shows their commitment to meeting specific customer needs and ensures your firearm is perfectly suited to you, whether it’s for accessibility or competitive shooting.

handgun and ammo



Teachers Of The Craft

The best shops know that selling firearms is more than just a part of their job. They also educate.

Look for places offering regular classes, workshops on gun safety, or talks by industry experts. This commitment to education helps foster a community of well-informed and competent gun owners.



Community Connections

A reliable gun shop is concerned with more than just flipping products and boosting sales.Engagement with the community shows that a gun shop is respected and is vital to safety and education.

handgun on display


Finding Gun Shops: Reputation Matters

It can be very illuminating to do a little digging online. Check out reviews on Google, Yelp, or specialized firearm forums. A few bad reviews aren’t a dealbreaker, but you should look for patterns in what people say.

handgun and USA flag

It’s also a good idea to ask around at local gun clubs or ranges—personal recommendations go a long way to determining a gun shop’s reputation.

By keeping these aspects in mind, you’ll be better prepared to know how to find gun shops that makes you feel confident and cared for as a gun owner.

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Best Ways To Sell A Gun Online [Safely And Legally]

In today’s digital age, where online platforms lead the way in commercial transactions, the practice of selling firearms on the internet is on the rise. Yet, the delicate character of these deals demands utmost prudence and strict adherence to legal standards.

This piece is designed to steer you through the intricacies of online gun sales, with a strong emphasis on security, compliance with laws, and dependability. We will go into the most reputable sites for these exchanges, offering an in-depth manual for each to guarantee your selling experience is seamless, safe, and within legal boundaries.

Federal and State Regulations

Before you initiate the process of selling a gun online, it’s imperative to first immerse yourself in the nuanced legalities that dictate these transactions. In the United States, the rules overseeing firearm sales form a multifaceted matrix, rather than a single, overarching directive. This system represents a dynamic interaction of federal and state laws, each with its own stipulations that can considerably alter the expectations and obligations involved in what might seem like a simple sale.

The Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968

This foundational legislation regulates interstate gun commerce, requiring that any firearm crossing state lines must be sold through a licensed dealer. This step is crucial in maintaining a legal sale, even when conducted online. 

State-Specific Regulations

Beyond federal law, each state can, and often does, set its own rules for firearm sales. These can include mandatory background checks for all sales, waiting periods before the completion of a sale, and additional licenses or permits. It’s essential to consult your state’s laws to avoid any legal infringements.

Background Check Protocols

background check

While not always compulsory under federal law for private sales, conducting a background check can add a layer of security to your transaction. Several states have taken this a step further, making background checks a requirement for all firearm sales.



Waiting Periods

hourglass-with-blue-sand

Some states impose a waiting period between the purchase and possession of a firearm. This period is intended as a safety measure, potentially preventing crimes of passion by allowing for a “cooling-off” period. 

Firearm Type Restrictions

Certain states have bans or restrictions on the sale of specific types of firearms, such as assault weapons or high-capacity magazines. Ensure that the firearm you intend to sell is legal in the jurisdiction of both the seller and the buyer. 



Record-Keeping Requirements

Depending on your state, you may be required to keep records of your firearm sales, including information about the buyer and the firearm. Proper record-keeping can assist in the recovery of firearms if they are lost or stolen and is a critical part of responsible gun ownership.

Given the complexity of gun laws, it might be beneficial to seek advice from a legal expert, especially if you’re conducting high-volume sales or are unsure about specific legal requirements.


Venturing beyond the conventional avenues for online firearm transactions, platforms such as Armslist.com and numerous firearms forums present themselves as unique alternatives. While they foster a sense of community and offer a different flavor of experience, they also introduce a distinct array of complexities and obligations that sellers must navigate.

Where and How to Sell Your Firearm Safely

Now that you’re equipped with a thorough understanding of the federal and state regulations governing firearm sales, you’re prepared to enter the digital marketplace.

Selling a gun online, while convenient, requires navigating through various platforms, each with its unique features and requirements.

Below, we go into the most reputable websites for firearm transactions, providing you with a comprehensive guide to ensure your selling experience is not only seamless but also secure and compliant with legal standards.



CashForArms.com

cash for arms website

In the realm of online firearm sales, Cash For Arms has emerged as a market leader, redefining the standards of convenience, speed, and customer satisfaction.

Renowned for its unparalleled ease of use, Cash For Arms is currently the most formidable figure in the online gun-selling space, offering users the fastest and simplest way to transition from gun owners to satisfied sellers.

Overview and Credibility

Cash For Arms is not just a platform; it’s a commitment to stress-free, transparent, and rapid transactions. It’s the epitome of user-centric operations, where the entire process is tailored to ensure you don’t just sell but sell with confidence and peace of mind.

The platform’s credibility is reflected in its user testimonials, with many praising its competitive offers, prompt payments, and exceptional customer service.



The Fastest and Easiest Way to Sell

When you choose Cash For Arms, you’re opting for the market’s quickest route from quote to cash. The platform’s streamlined three-step process eliminates all unnecessary hurdles, helping you sell your gun without cumbersome delays or hidden fees.

You simply submit your gun’s details, review and accept your offer, and receive your payment — all with the assurance of legal compliance and secure transactions.

A Stronghold in the Market

In the competitive arena of online gun sales, Cash For Arms stands out as the strongest contender. Its reputation is not just built on promises but on a track record of delivering the best experience possible for every customer.

Whether you’re selling a single firearm or an entire collection, Cash For Arms is the go-to destination for sellers seeking reliability, legality, and the best value for their firearms.




Gunbroker.com

gunbroker.com screen shot

As one of the most well-known online firearm marketplaces, Gunbroker.com holds a significant position in the industry. Its extensive user base and wide array of listings make it a go-to platform for many gun enthusiasts. However, while it offers a robust platform for buying and selling firearms, there are certain aspects that users should be cautious of…

Extensive Market

Gunbroker.com operates much like an auction house, where sellers list their firearms and buyers place bids. The platform doesn’t purchase your firearms directly, which means the sale isn’t instantaneous.

Sellers must manage their listings, respond to potential buyers, and often wait for the auction to end, which can be time-consuming.

Additionally, this format doesn’t guarantee a sale, as your firearm sells only if the reserve price is met.



Fees and Additional Costs

Gunbroker.com charges listing and final value fees, meaning a portion of your sale’s proceeds goes to the platform. While this is standard for many online marketplaces, it’s something to consider when calculating the net gain from your sale.

Additionally, the responsibility for legal compliance, such as background checks and following firearm shipping laws, falls entirely on the seller, potentially incurring additional costs.



User Safety Concerns

While Gunbroker.com is a reputable platform, the level of user-to-user interaction required can pose certain risks.

Unlike platforms like Cash For Arms, which standardize the selling process, users on Gunbroker.com must navigate negotiations independently. This increases the risk of encountering non-serious buyers or individuals with questionable intentions.

The platform has measures in place to mitigate these risks, but the onus remains largely on the individual seller to vet potential buyers.

In Summary

Gunbroker.com is a viable option for those who prefer a hands-on approach to selling firearms and are familiar with online auction environments. However, for sellers seeking quick, hassle-free transactions with guaranteed offers, platforms like Cash For Arms offer a more streamlined, secure, and user-friendly experience.




Armslist.com and Other Firearms Forums

armslist.com screen shot

Venturing beyond the conventional avenues for online firearm transactions, platforms such as Armslist.com and numerous firearms forums present themselves as unique alternatives. While they foster a sense of community and offer a different flavor of experience, they also introduce a distinct array of complexities and obligations that sellers must navigate…

 

Platforms like Armslist.com are rich with enthusiasts and direct buyer-to-seller interactions, and hold a certain appeal for those immersed in the firearm community.

However, the very aspects that contribute to their charm also bring about challenges that require careful attention and a proactive stance from those looking to engage in successful, legal sales.



A Marketplace Bridging Buyers and Sellers

Armslist.com positions itself as a specialized conduit for firearm enthusiasts, facilitating direct interactions and transactions between buyers and sellers.

Unlike traditional retail platforms, Armslist.com doesn’t participate in the transaction process. Instead, it provides a digital space where sellers can list firearms, and potential buyers can pursue and initiate direct contact to discuss terms, negotiate, and finalize transaction details.



Streamlined Yet Hands-On

The operational ethos of Armslist.com is one of simplicity coupled with user autonomy. Sellers have the prerogative to create detailed listings — a transparent showcase featuring descriptions, images, and the desired price points of their firearms.

From there, the platform allows potential buyers to reach out directly to sellers, paving the way for inquiries, negotiations, and the ultimate arrangement of the transaction’s specifics.

This process, while straightforward, demands a hands-on approach from sellers, necessitating active engagement with prospective buyers and personal management of each sale’s nuances.

Navigating Risks and Responsibilities

The very structure that affords Armslist.com its ease and directness also ushers in a set of inherent challenges.

The platform’s hands-off approach means there is minimal oversight over transactions, placing the onus of legal compliance, due diligence in vetting buyers, and personal safety squarely on the sellers’ shoulders.

This lack of institutional control has attracted criticism, with instances of the platform being exploited by individuals seeking to skirt legal norms. As such, users are advised to proceed with heightened caution, exercising meticulous due diligence to uphold the legality and security of their transactions.


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Top Pick for Online Firearm Sales: Why Cash For Arms Stands Out

In the digital marketplace for firearm sales, various platforms offer unique selling experiences, each with its pros and cons.

Armslist.com and firearms forums cater to those seeking direct buyer interactions within a community setting, yet they require significant seller involvement and caution due to minimal transaction oversight.

Gunbroker.com, an extensive auction-style platform, demands active seller engagement and bears the risk of uncertain sale closure, coupled with additional fees.

Contrastingly, Cash For Arms shines as the most efficient, secure, and straightforward option. It simplifies the selling process with immediate quotes and quick payments, all while rigorously adhering to legal protocols. This hassle-free approach, combined with assured legal compliance and a focus on customer satisfaction, positions Cash For Arms as the superior choice for online firearm sales.

Balancing convenience with strict legal adherence, Cash For Arms offers an unrivaled selling experience that prioritizes seller confidence and transactional efficiency, making it our top recommendation for online firearm transactions.