With safety, legal issues, and personal use at stake, it’s crucial to be well-informed before making this decision. Below are the key factors to weigh in to make sure you’re ready for this commitment:

Understand The Laws

Before exploring options from reliable providers like Bear Creek Arsenal, be sure to learn more about gun laws, which may vary widely from one state to another. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your area. This includes understanding background checks, waiting periods, and any necessary permits or licenses.

It may not be the most exciting part of the process, but it’s absolutely essential. Skipping this step could lead to legal consequences, so invest the necessary time to get it right.

Define Your Purpose

Understanding why you’re buying a firearm is crucial and influences more than just the type of gun you choose. Are you seeking protection, interested in hunting, or aiming to join a shooting club?

Each purpose guides the selection of the firearm that best suits your needs and affects the legal considerations and requirements you’ll face. For instance, those looking for a firearm for personal protection may need to consider additional permits for concealed carry.

Similarly, specific types of firearms may be restricted or recommended for hunting, depending on local wildlife regulations. Aligning your intentions with the right model and understanding the legal implications of its intended use are vital steps to prepare you for a smoother ownership experience.

Consider Your Budget

Firearms can range from relatively inexpensive to quite pricey. Setting a budget early on helps narrow down your options. However, remember that the cost of the firearm itself isn’t the only expense. You’ll need to budget for ammunition, safe storage, maintenance, and training, which can all add up. So, plan accordingly to avoid any financial surprises.

Prioritize Safety And Training

Owning a gun is a big responsibility that requires you to take safety seriously and learn the proper way to handle firearms. While taking a basic firearms safety course is an excellent start, look into additional training opportunities to expand your skills and knowledge.

There are specialized courses available that focus on different aspects of gun ownership and usage. For example, you can take a self-defense course to learn how to properly use a firearm for personal protection.

Or, if you’re interested in hunting, there are hunter safety courses that cover firearms handling as well as ethical hunting practices. If competitive shooting piques your interest, you can find training programs that help improve your accuracy and marksmanship.

These advanced courses don’t just cover how to shoot better. They also teach you essential details about properly storing and maintaining your firearms, as well as discussing the legal and ethical considerations around gun use.

By investing time into this extended training, you’ll gain a deeper, more well-rounded understanding of firearm safety and responsibilities. This preparation helps ensure you’re ready to handle a variety of situations involving guns.

Select The Right Firearm

With a clear understanding of the law, your purpose, budget, and safety training in mind, you’re on the right path to selecting your firearm. Doing your homework is crucial at this stage. Consider researching various brands, models, and their reviews. Then, pay close attention to factors like weight, size, and ease of use.

In addition, consider visiting a shooting range to test out a few options. During this hands-on experience, don’t hesitate to seek advice from range instructors or experienced shooters present. Their insights can be incredibly valuable, offering personalized guidance based on how you handle the firearm.

Storage And Maintenance

Before bringing a firearm home, have a plan for safe storage. A secure gun safe or lockbox is essential to prevent unauthorized access. Not only does this protect your household, but it also complies with safety regulations. Here are a few additional pointers:

• Humidity Control: Keeping your firearm in a controlled environment prevents rust and corrosion. Consider using dehumidifiers or silica gel packs in your storage area.
• Regular Cleaning: Firearms require regular cleaning to function properly. After use, take the time to clean and oil your gun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It prevents buildup and wear.

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your firearm in good working condition. Learn about the necessary upkeep tasks and ensure you have the right tools and supplies on hand. Keeping a maintenance log can help you track servicing tasks and ensure your firearm remains reliable over time.

Join A Community

Consider joining a local shooting club or online firearms community. Surrounding yourself with experienced gun owners can provide support, advice, and camaraderie. These groups often share insights on everything from the best local ranges to troubleshooting common issues.

Conclusion

Purchasing your first firearm often demands attention to detail, respect for the law, and a commitment to safety. By taking the time to consider each of these factors thoroughly, you can make an informed decision about gun ownership. However, remember that gun ownership is a lifelong commitment. With proper education, responsible storage, and ongoing practice, you can ensure your firearm remains a safe and useful tool.

The post What To Consider Before Buying Your First Firearm appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

Cliff Riley, the Sales Manager expressed the organization’s dedication to its customers by stating, “Our commitment to serving our customers is unwavering. This structured program provides a timeframe and optimal flexibility as a testament to our dedication to helping them acquire their desired firearms.”

In addition, to this customer approach, K Var Corp presents a range of options tailored specifically for firearm enthusiasts.
K Var Corp offers a selection of, more than 50,000 products from well-known brands like Arsenal, Century Arms, Colt, Daniel Defense, Ruger, SIG SAUER, Winchester, and others. Customers have a variety of firearms and accessories to choose from. What makes it more appealing is that their layaway program doesn’t come with any interest or additional charges. This means that customers can fulfill their dreams of owning sporting rifles AK variants or AR 15 models without straining their finances. K Var Corp takes pride in offering items like MOLOT, Izhmash, Arsenal, and Legion firearms that have an appeal to collectors and investors. This sets them apart from the competition. Riley also mentioned that customers can check with them to see if their desired item qualifies for the layaway program.

K Var Corp’s’ innovative program is a win for customers across the board. By eliminating interest charges and extra costs they are setting a standard for affordability in the industry. This approach not makes firearms more accessible, to a range of customers but also allows people to pursue their passion without financial burden.

As worries increase due, to the rising inflation rates and significant increases in interest rates concerns about the long-term sustainability of the K Var Corp’s layaway program in the firearms industry have emerged. Taking a look at the landscape including the relatively narrow profit margins of 10 15% associated with firearms and the operational expenses incurred by companies it becomes clear that questioning the viability of this ambitious endeavor is valid. The real challenge lies in whether K Var Corp’s competitors would be inclined to adopt a layaway program centered around customer satisfaction given its modest financial returns.

Moreover, as credit and prime rates continue to rise an important question arises; Is it wise to embrace such a customer-focused strategy? Riley emphasizes, “Our commitment to our customers remains unwavering regardless of market conditions. By implementing this program our aim is to support our customers. We have confidence that they will recognize and appreciate our unwavering dedication.” While K Var Corp’s’ focus on addressing customer needs deserves recognition we cannot overlook the implications of these actions. Striking a balance between ensuring customer satisfaction and maintaining stability becomes a consideration for businesses.

The strategic move made by K Var Corp is expected to have reaching effects, throughout the industry.
Recreating the achievements of the K Var Corp’s’ program might present a challenge, for retailers. It requires a base and strong purchasing capabilities to offer extended layaway periods and affordable upfront payments. Smaller businesses with resources may encounter difficulties in matching the flexibility and affordability demonstrated by K Var Corp.

Nevertheless, the introduction of the K Var Corp’s layaway program has the potential to attract a customer base. As financial constraints continue to affect individuals the appeal of a program that offers repayment timelines and accessible payment options should not be underestimated. K Var Corp’s unwavering dedication to assisting customers along with its focus on reducing burdens positions the company as a leader in meeting customer needs during challenging times.

Ultimately only time will reveal how the industry responds to K Var Corp’s groundbreaking initiative. It is possible that other retailers will recognize the benefits of enhancing their layaway programs; however, duplicating the range offered by K Var Corp remains uncertain. In the meantime, customers are likely to be drawn towards K Var Corp’s program due to its affordability and flexibility which align with their desire for firearm ownership, without strain.
Amidst the increasing demand, for firearms and shooting-related activities, K Var Corp’s innovative layaway program serves as a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction. By putting customers and meeting their needs K Var Corp has not set a new standard in the industry but has also challenged other retailers to improve their offerings. This ensures that customers can pursue their passions without facing burdens.

It’s important to acknowledge that economic conditions and market dynamics can change rapidly. Companies in the firearms industry must consistently evaluate the feasibility of their initiatives. Adapt strategies accordingly. They need to monitor profit margins, operating costs, interest rate trends, and evolving customer preferences. This helps strike a balance between customer-focused efforts and maintaining stability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the resilience of K Var Corp’s groundbreaking layaway program in a shifting climate deserves consideration. As time unfolds we will see its lasting impact on the industry. Currently, this situation presents a win-win opportunity, for both discerning consumers and the company itself.

The post A National Retailer’s Impressive Efforts, to Tackle Challenges in the Firearms Industry appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

If everything else checks out, though, you can order your gun online and have it delivered, sometimes even faster than when the same firearm was ordered in person in a store.

The following summarizes what you need to do to complete an online firearm purchase.

The Ground Rules

Before you can make a single purchase of a firearm online, you must make sure you understand the process and what will be required of you for the gun purchase to go through.

Federal Dealers Only

These instructions only cover orders with legitimate Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealers. Those folks can perform the background checks, fill out the paperwork, file that paperwork in the appropriate places, and ship the gun to you in full federal, legal and postal compliance.

If you want to make a private party purchase of a firearm online, you need to do your research. The exception to this is if you have an FFL manage the sale as a disinterested third party to help you and the seller maintain federal and state legal compliance.

State Laws Differ

You will need to find out what your state has on the books regarding online sales. For the most part, the process is streamlined, but there are state specific gun laws.

For example, in Massachusetts, you must apply for and receive a state permit to purchase a firearm, which requires an in-person interview with local law enforcement. The interview is required for every purchase of any firearm, online or in person, in a retail organization. In NH, you have to follow federal law and, in a few specific cases, local regulations.

You also must follow any laws regarding registering your firearm, even if you purchased it online. Using Massachusetts as an example, again, once you complete your purchase, you are required to register the gun in the state’s Transaction Portal. The purpose of the registry is to aid law enforcement when investigating a crime where a firearm was used.

You Need a Pick-Up Dealer

Purchasing a firearm online will be one of the few times where “picking up product from a dealer” is legitimate. In this case, the product is the firearm you just purchased. The dealer is a licensed and certified FFL dealer. This dealer will help with the following:

• Perform a background check to verify you can purchase a firearm
• Oversee an FFL Transfer, which entails an ATF form and passing a background check
• Perform any state-required background checks
• Receive the purchased firearm
• Deliver the purchased firearm to you

Most FFL dealers will have a fee for their services. It typically ranges from around $50 to $100. You must set up the arrangement in advance. If you have a firearm shipped to an FFL dealer without pre-arranging the transfer, they will send your firearm back to the purchaser’s shipper.

Ammo Laws May Differ

Most states have different laws pertaining to the legal purchase of ammunition. Before initiating your firearm purchase, you want to ensure that you can get the type of ammo your firearm can use and that there is an adequate supply of that ammo so you do not have to wait months to replenish your supply.

For example, if you are purchasing an odd gauge shotgun, you might not be able to get anything but low-budget training ammo during parts of the year. With other gauges, you might be able to get basic ammunition easily, but any specialty ammunition must be pre-ordered.

Additionally, different states have different ammo purchase and possession laws. For example:

• In IL and MA, you must have a firearm identification card
• 11 states ban the sale, purchase, or possession of armor-piercing ammo
• Six states have prohibited the sale of large-capacity magazines
• Many states have age restrictions on ammo purchases and ammo types
• All states adhere to federal law and, in some cases, are not as restrictive

How to Make An Online Purchase

The following is the process you will need to follow to legally purchase a firearm online.

Locate and Contact An FFL

You need to find an FFL dealer and arrange for them to administrate the process for making your purchase. That means you will need to pay them their management fee, and they will put you through the appropriate verification processes and checks to ensure you can legally purchase a firearm.

You might have to shop for an FFL dealer willing to oversee your purchase. Some FFL dealers view online sales as direct competition. If you cannot find an FFL dealer or the fees are outrageous, there is the option of getting your own FFL, which delays the sale, but lets you have your firearm purchases sent directly to your home.

If you make many firearms purchases, getting your FFL might be right for you.

Set Up the Transfer

Once you find an FFL dealer, you must pay the required fee and schedule the transaction. Scheduling the transaction includes sending the seller the FFL from your dealer. Sometimes, an FFL dealer will send the license to your seller. An FFL dealer contacting the seller directly is normal for some organizations.

Make the Purchase

You select and pay for your firearm when the transfer is set up. Remember that these instructions do not cover private sales. Shop at a reputable firearms dealer. They will also help with the transfer process.

Pick Your Firearm Up

Once you have paid for your firearm, the seller will coordinate the delivery of the firearm to your FFL dealer. The dealer will call you when the firearm arrives. Upon receipt, all you need to do is bring proof of identification, and you can pick up your new firearm.

Final Thoughts

Your local firearms dealer probably has what you want in firearms options. In some cases, however, online sales are a better option. These tips and the outlined process will ensure that your firearms sale is legal, timely, and rewarding for all involved.

The post How to Buy A Hunting Gun Legally Online appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

Gun Maintenance Tips

First of all, before you do anything, you should always make a point of reading your gun owner’s manual. It will contain advice on how take apart your pistol, clean it safely and thoroughly, and reassemble it effectively. Secondly, you should always follow safely rules. Firearms are deadly weapons so you should take every precaution necessary to ensure whatever maintenance processes you are following, are done so as safely as possible.

Before you take apart your firearm in order to clean it, you should ensure it is safely unloaded, and the ammunition is stored somewhere away from the pistol until you decide to load it again. Always wear protective clothing such as safety goggles and gloves to keep chemicals away from your skin and eyes.

When To Clean Your Glock Pistol

Your pistol should be cleaned and lubricated before it is first used, and again after each time it has been fired. Even if the pistol hasn’t been used, it should still be cleaned and lubricated once a month. Cleaning and lubricating your pistol regularly will help to prevent corrosion and ensure it operates optimally.

How To Clean Your Glock Pistol

Here Is A Simple Step-By-Step Guide To Cleaning Your Glock Pistol:

1. Soak a patch in solvent and run it though the chamber and barrel of the gun. Do this a few times to ensure the feed ramp, chamber and inside of the barrel are thoroughly coated. Then soak the barrel in warm soapy water.
2. Next, clean the inside of the slide with a dry cloth. Use a small toothbrush with solvent to gently scrub the surfaces inside, and look closely at the slide rails and breech face. Avoid the solvent running into the striker channel, so it remains dry. Let the slide aside to soak.
3. Take another dry cloth and clean the pistol frame. Remove carbon and dirt from the outside, as well as the magazine base plates, then clean the rails, ejector and trigger bar.
4. After you’ve cleaned the frame, another tip is to use a can of compressed air to blow any remaining solvent out of nooks and crannies. You’re aiming to have the pistol completely clean and dry. 
5. Next, clean the recoil spring assembly with a cloth or dry toothbrush to ensure it is clean and dry. 
6. Now, let’s turn our attention to the magazine. Wipe it down, paying close attention to the follower and feed lips. If you have any suspicions that water or debris has entered the magazine, you should disassemble it and give it a thorough clean. 
7. Onto the slide. First, scrub this again with your dry toothbrush and wipe it all down until it’s clean and dry. To clean the rails, use a Q-Tip or wooden toothpick to wipe down the rails from end to end. Make sure there aren’t any rings of carbon or sealant on the breech face. You can always use a brass brush to scrub it clean. Remove any dirt that might have built up behind the extractor hook. You may need to disassemble the slide to access it properly. Finally, wipe down the outside of the extractor pocket, and clean your sights.
8. The last step is to go back to the barrel. Run the solvent through it again then clean it with a dry cloth. Next, clean the feed ramp until it is clean and shining. You can put a bristle brush on the end of a cleaning rod and pass it through the barrel a few times. Then, closely inspect the bore and chamber, making sure they are clean. 

These steps may make the process of cleaning and maintaining your Glock Slide Back Plates may sound time-consuming and cumbersome, but they will only support your use of the pistol over time. Glocks are often handed down from generation to generation. Following these simple steps regularly will ensure you pass down a pistol that will continue to serve younger family members equally as well as it has served you.

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Guns are only used in a controlled environment or case of emergency. You’re not using them daily, but only occasionally. When you’re at home, you need to store your gun safely, out of other people’s reach.

The best solution for this issue is to get yourself a gun safe. There are lots of options on the market. You have different materials, sizes, and looks. For example, looking at the Spika safes for sale, you see that they have numerous different looks, and you need to pick what’s best for you.

With different guns come different types of safes too. You’ll surely know what’s best for you, but things may go terribly wrong if you have no protection for yourself. In this article, we’re explaining why the best protection is a specialized safe made for guns exclusively. Check out why this is the best solution for storing your guns.

1. Protection from theft

When someone breaks into your home and you’re not there, they’ll try to steal anything valuable. Your guns are extremely valuable for thieves because they are registered in your name, and committing a crime with them will lead the police to you and not them.

If someone steals them and shoots someone with your guns, the police will come to your door, making you the main suspect. When you place them inside a safe, burglars will not be able to get them. They may steal other stuff, but your guns will remain intact.

2. Keeping kids out of gun access

The worst-case scenario with guns is to have your kids get them. Some people will store their guns on higher grounds, like the top shelf of a closet, but kids are amazingly capable of getting up there and getting their hands on the guns.

Don’t let kids have access to your guns because they don’t understand the severity of the situation. They may shoot with your guns and hurt someone or hurt themselves, which you must avoid by all means, as there’s no going back from that point.

3. Never losing your items around the house

When you store your guns somewhere around the house, you often forget which place that was. In a case of emergency, you’ll go through it entirely, but you won’t find it in time. It may be too late to find it later, so you need a better solution than this one.

What you need to do is get yourself the gun safe we’re talking about. Aside from providing a safe place for storing your guns, you’ll also always know where they are. They’ll be in a visible spot, and you’ll never spend time searching for them. A safe is more than just a storage place to keep everyone away from them.

4. Some insurance policies demand one

To create insurance for your guns, property, or life, you may want a dedicated insurance policy. Insurance companies dealing with these types of matters will often ask for a guarantee that you’re storing your guns properly, where the gun safe comes into play.

Insurance companies accept the safe as a perfect way to store your items. When you give them proof that you own one and you’re storing your firearm inside, they’ll be happy to sign the policy and provide the insurance you’re looking for. Without it, they’ll probably refuse because you won’t be eligible for an insurance policy.

5. Worrying about a fire hazard

When a fire breaks out in your home, the guns are among the many things that may be destroyed, but they may spark even more problems. The ammunition is highly flammable and will surely cause an explosion, additionally damaging the house.

To ensure that you’re safe from an additional catastrophe, you should store your firearm inside the safe. Most gun safes are made fire-resistant, have alarms installed, and they are unbreakable. That is enough to have them as the perfect insulation item against all weather and man-made hazards.

Conclusion

These few points explain why you’ll want a gun safe. There are many benefits from having one when you own a firearm, and we showed the five most crucial ones. Some of them will make your life easier, while others may even save your and someone else’s life.

Buying a gun safe will also get you the necessary insurance policy you may be looking for. Aside from this, you’re getting a child’s protection and anti-theft protection, and you’ll never lose your firearm again. These are the essential reasons you’d want to get yourself a gun safe and never again worry about where your guns are and whether they are safely stored.

The post 5 Crucial Reasons to Get Yourself a Gun Safe appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

Owning a gun is a big responsibility. If you are sure you are up for buying firearms, you will need some guidelines for selecting one. This first-time buyer’s guide has eight helpful tips for choosing your gun.

• Select a Purpose

Why do you need a gun? That is the first question to ask yourself when choosing firearms. You can want one for recreational purposes. There are mainly three uses of guns when using them for recreation.

After visiting an indoor or outdoor shooting range, you may have decided to get one. Or you went skeet shooting and ended up loving the experience.

One of the most popular uses of guns is hunting. If you love hunting games, you would want your own hunting rifle.

Hunting is often considered a way to manage wildlife as it keeps a healthy balance within a contained habitat. It is used to maintain the population to stay compatible with human activities in the area. 

If you feel unsafe, you might want a gun for safety. Or you might want to build your own gun collection. Each purpose requires a different gun. Once you figure out the purpose, you can find the right gun for the job.

You can also get a gun to be prepared for any eventuality. There are a lot of factors to consider if you need guns for that. But generally, here are the weapons preppers need. This resource is great starting point.

• Learn About Gun Laws

Buying a gun is easy, but doing so legally is the hard part. You can get a quality gun from any federally licensed and legal online gun shop. But, doing so without learning about the gun laws is risky and irresponsible.

According to the second amendment of the United States, people have the right to own and bear arms. However, each state has different gun laws, which the federal government does not control. Get in-depth knowledge about your state’s gun laws before buying a gun.

Most states require you to have a permit for carrying guns, except a few like Mississippi, Kansas, and Arizona. Only fourteen states need you to get a permit to purchase firearms. A few states require firearm registration.

• Figure Out Your Eligibility

How do you know if you are eligible for owning firearms? Even if your state laws are relaxed about gun ownership, you still have to be eligible for one.  For starters, you have to be at least 21. Even though some states allow people over 18 to buy hunting guns, most states agree on selling guns to full adults.

One deciding issue when it comes to owning guns is your criminal record. Have you ever been convicted for committing a misdemeanor or a felony?

If you have received a restraining order or reported for sporting threatening behavior, you can’t buy a gun. Being indicted for a crime is enough to ensure that you never become eligible to own guns. So, if you are a fugitive, you cannot own firearms legally.

People who have been dishonorably discharged from the military are also prohibited from buying or owning firearms. Having a record of alcohol or drug abuse also prevents you from it. Lastly, if you have a history of mental illness or have been involuntarily committed, you can’t own a gun.

• Choose the Right Gun

The first step of finding the right gun is knowing the purpose. If you are looking for a gun for hunting, you will need a rifle.

The most common guns for small game hunting are .22 caliber hunting rifles. Caliber is the diameter of a gun barrel. If you are looking for a hunting rifle for home defense from bears, you need a larger caliber. A .308 caliber hunting gun is ideal for big game.

If you are looking for a larger gun for home safety, opt for shotguns or carbines. Some prefer revolvers or semi-automatic pistols for home defense. They are also great for carrying in person if you are worried about your safety.

For skeet shooting, people use clay shotguns. Gun ranges can have various options, but the most commonly found firearms are pistols, rifles, and shotguns.

• Understanding Ammo

Most people mistakenly call one unit of ammo a bullet. Bullet only makes up the part of the ammunition that propels out and shoots the target.

A cartridge is the entire unit of ammunition along with the bullet, shell, primer, and propellant. When a bullet is shot, the leftover materials fall out of the gun.

Different types of guns use different types of ammunition. The Federal law doesn’t state any regulation for buying or possessing ammunition, except that you have to be 18 to purchase shotgun or rifle ammo and 21 for pistols.

Ammunition is available in any gun shop and most local superstores. You can also find them online, but an attempt to return them can be taxing. Since ammunition has gun powder in them, they fall under a different category of shipping policies.

Even though there is no limit to how much ammunition you can buy, bulk buying can make the government track you.

• Try Before You Buy

As a beginner, you are only getting introduced to guns. Don’t know which gun will suit your needs and would be comfortable for shooting? You must try out a few before buying.

Visiting a shooting range is an excellent idea for getting a taste of various guns. If there are any particular guns you would like to try, find a shooting range that has them.

You can visit them and ask if they have the gun you are looking for. Sometimes their websites also have information on which items they have.

If you are thinking of buying a used gun, ask the seller to bring it to a shooting range. Trying it out will give you a good idea of whether it is in good condition and will suit you.

Don’t buy a gun that looks rusty or in poor condition. Also, do a background check on the past owner and make sure that the firearm is legally purchased and registered.

• Receive Training

Whether you want a gun for defense or a hunting rifle, you will need the training to use them. Using firearms without knowing how to use them can be dangerous. If you are not trained properly, you can make a mistake that can threaten your life and that of others.

These days we have plenty of professional trainers who are knowledgeable and experienced. Getting training from a licensed instructor will help you understand the basics and ensure you don’t make life-threatening mistakes.

Learning from a seasoned shooter means you can harness your capabilities and hone them to perfection. Your trainer can help you understand how to use your gun the way it is meant to be used. They can teach you the proper techniques and guide your learning in a safe environment.

But, getting trained is not enough. You have to get enough practice to become an intermediate learner.

• Practice Gun Safety

How important is gun safety, you might ask. The answer would be ‘very’. As a newbie, you must learn the basics of gun safety. Try to use safety equipment that protects you from “side effects” of gun use for starters.

Guns are loud, so all the shooting ranges provide ear protection. Consider buying some for yourself if you plan to use your gun more frequently. You should also consider using eye protection, as shards and bits from the cartridge can go into your eyes and cause significant damage.

A golden rule of using a gun is that you should never point a gun at someone as a joke. Even if the safety lock is turned on, don’t point it at people.

Don’t load your gun until the moment you use it. Keeping it unloaded ensures that it doesn’t go off by accident. Unload it before putting it away when you are done using your gun. Make sure your personal safety gun has a light accessory.

Conclusion

We hope this first-time buyer’s guide can help you find the right gun for you. You must learn about the gun laws and figure out whether you are eligible for gun ownership. These helpful tips for choosing your gun can ensure you make a sound decision about your gun choice.

Your purpose for gun use will be the deciding factor for the firearm you choose. Enjoy the thrill of shooting safely! Practice gun safety and get trained before buying one.

The post A First-time Buyer’s Guide: 8 Helpful Tips for Choosing Your Gun appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

Crossbow shooting

Crossbow shooting is a popular form of archery. The way in which you hold a crossbow is similar to a rifle, which can result in more precision and flexibility as to where you shoot from. Many archery clubs and rifle shooting clubs allow you to practise crossbow shooting. You can practice on stationary or moving targets. Crossbows can even be used for hunting (although typically at much more close quarters than a rifle). As with guns and regular bows, there are a range of different styled crossbows that you can buy. 

Darts

Darts may well be the most popular shooting game – most of us have likely tried it at some point in our lives. It’s so popular because it’s so affordable and accessible compared to many other shooting games. Not only is it a popular bar game, but it’s also one of the few shooting games you can play at home with relatively little space. Darts is easy to learn and get into, but can be a challenging sport to master. Those that want to take it seriously should consider joining a darts club and practising with pro darts such as these Kyle Anderson darts. There are many different variants of darts that are worth trying. 

Fukiya

Fukiya is a Japanese sport that involves using a blowgun. As with other shooting sports, it involves shooting at a target – in most cases using darts. Fukiya is definitely a very niche sport, however there are associations found all around the world. A few sport blowgun variants exist practised by indingenous people, which may involve using different-styled blowguns and rules, however the basic premise is still the same.  

Biathlon

The biathlon is a winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. The aim is to complete a cross-country trail, while shooting targets at checkpoints along the way. To get involved in this sport, you typically need to be competent in rifle shooting and Nordic skiing first. There are biathlon clubs you can join to practice this sport – often based at ski resorts. Biathlon is a winter Olympic event and those that are serious about it can train up to become athletes (although you typically have to start training quite young). Check out this Cross Country Ski Colorado post on getting into biathlon training for more details. 

Cowboy action shooting

Cowboy action shooting is as fun and wild as it sounds. Players compete to complete historic western-themed trails while often dressed as cowboys. Guns are supplied by the course owners and are typically period-styled (usually 19th century rifles and pistols). It’s a fun activity for those that love shooting sports and cowboy culture. This is definitely quite a niche shooting sport – you won’t find many courses outside of the southern states of the US, although there are other themed shooting courses around the world.

Underwater target shooting

Underwater target shooting is another wonderfully wacky shooting sport that could be worth looking into. It involves shooting underwater targets with a speargun. You’ll need to be competent at diving to partake in this sport – while there are snorkelling variants, most versions involve having a scuba diving PADI licence. You’ll have to do a bit of searching to find somewhere that hosts this sport, as it is very niche. It’s mostly played in diving club swimming pools.

Paintball

Paintball players who pursue it professionally, they make a good fortune out of it. Paintball games are typically hosted at specialist paintball arenas. Players are divided into teams and typically a range of different game scenarios such as capture the flag or defend the president. Guns fire paintballs that splatter on impact, making it easy to tell when a player has been hit. Those that want to take paintball seriously can join specialist clubs where you’re allowed to take your own guns and you get to play with and against other serious players. A mask is usually worn for safety when playing paintball.    

Airsoft

Airsoft is similar to paintball, but involves firing BB pellets. As a result, you often have to rely on the integrity of players admitting to when they get hit. Airsoft is designed to be more realistic – airsoft guns are designed to look and operate like real firearms. At the same time, it’s cheaper than paintball. There are typically more team tactics as it tends to attract more serious players than paintball, although it can still be very fun. Airsoft isn’t as widely played as paintball, but has grown a lot over the decades, meaning there is likely a local arena near you if you fancy trying it. 

Laser tag

Laser tag is another combat shooting sport that is played with laser guns. The advantage of laser tag is that when you are hit, there is no pain. It tends to attract more families with kids because of this, although it can be played and enjoyed by people of all ages. Laser tag is often played in indoor arenas, although it can also be played in outdoor arenas. Shots are digitally recorded on a computer system, so you know when someone has been hit. Like other competitive shooting games, there may be different scenarios that you can play. 

FPS esports

First Person Shooter (FPS) esports can also be classed as a form of shooting sport. This involves playing shooter video games competitively with other players. Shooter games can be played on a variety of consoles. Most people play such video games casually, but some people play them professionally. This involves competing in paid tournaments which typically have cash prizes for the winner and runners-up. There will usually be a fee for entering these tournaments, or you may have to prove that you’re of a certain level. Of course, you can always carry out your own tournaments with friends instead of taking part in these official tournaments. To find local gaming tournaments, look online or enquire at local gaming cafes. 

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Here are some easy-to-follow tips to help you efficiently clean your handgun and keep it operating at peak efficiency.

Choose Your Cleaning Solvent

Your cleaning experience is only as good as your solvent. An effective one will cut through all the dirt, grime, oil and burned gunpowder that builds up during use. You don’t want something too harsh that will damage the metal, but it should be strong enough to cut through the buildup. 

Collect Your Tools

Step two is collecting your tools and laying them out. A good gun cleaning kit is invaluable for maintaining most handguns, mostly because it makes it easier to get into all the nooks and crannies. 

Lay a lint-free cloth down where you’re going to clean your handgun. This will keep your tabletop clean and prevent you from losing any small screws or other parts that could potentially roll away.

Take Apart Your Handgun Carefully

Once you have all your tools ready and laid out, it’s time to start taking apart your handgun. The exact steps for this will vary depending on the model you own, but there are a few things to consider. 

1. This isn’t a race. You’re not competing for meal tickets or shower chits by disassembling or reassembling your handgun fastest. 
2. Be careful as you break things down. Small pieces like springs and screws are essential to the operation of your handgun. Lose them, and you could find yourself on the hunt for replacements.
3. Take your time. Clean all the nooks and crannies and ensure you haven’t left any dirt or grime behind that could interfere with the gun’s operation.

It’s vital to break down your handgun properly before moving on to the next step.

Clean, Then Oil

Start with your cleaning solvent. Spray down any visible grime areas, then wipe them down with a soft, lint-free cloth. The gun cleaning kit should contain brushes that will allow you to clean the barrel. Make sure you choose a brush large enough to scrub the interior without being so big you have to use extra pressure to force it into place. 

Once you’ve removed all the dirt and grime, take the time to oil the internal components that you won’t be able to reach once you put the pieces back together. Proper lubrication will ensure your weapon remains in prime condition.

Reassemble Your Handgun

This step will be the reverse of the disassembly step above. It’s time to put all those stray pieces back together. Again, don’t rush, especially if you’re still learning the quirks of your handgun. Take your time, ensure that everything is where it’s supposed to be and check that you don’t have any extra pieces left over when you’re done. 

Once everything is reassembled, wipe down the exterior with gun oil to remove any skin oils or leftover grime and protect the body of the handgun when it’s in storage.

Store It Correctly

Now it’s time to put your handgun away until you need it again. Ensure it’s stored in a cool, dry place. Too much heat or humidity can negatively impact the metal and cause problems the next time you take it out and try to fire it. Consider investing in a dehumidifier to keep things dry if you live in an area that experiences high humidity frequently.

Shoot Safely and Clean Often

A well-maintained gun will serve you well for many years. Take the time to learn how to clean a handgun and ensure you’re cleaning it thoroughly after every use.

The post How to Efficiently Clean Your Handgun: 6 Tips appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

In recent years, efforts to prevent accidents have been ongoing to ensure the further safety and accountability of its users. Those into handgun shooting sports will find many ways to do it with improved accuracy. Check out what Hold Right Edge recommends and our tips below.

What Are Handgun Shooting Tips That Can Improve Accuracy?

There are five essential factors to consider when engaged in a handgun shooting: aiming, position, breath control, grip, trigger squeeze, and target engagement. In line with these factors are the five tips to consider when aiming for better accuracy. Here they are:

1. Employ the Correct Grip

Mastering how to have a proper grip is a fundamental step in shooting. It is said that you successfully developed a proper grip if the handgun seems to be an extension of the arm and hand already.

A firm and uniform grip is essential in firing. Learning how to do various grips, such as one-hand, two-hand, fist, palm-supported, and weaver, will help. Lastly, it is essential to remember that you must not place the non-firing thumb in the gun’s rear. Doing so can prevent any injury that can potentially result from the recoil upon firing.

2. Apply Isometric Tension for a Better Stance

While this sounds technical, it simply means one who shoots must raise arms to a firing position while applying forward pressure with the firing hand. Then, pull rearward with the other hand with the same pressure.

Applying this leads to a better stance, creating an isometric force that increases the shooter’s stability. It also helps steady the handgun and minimizes barrel rise from recoil.

Remember that the same pressure should be present in both non-firing and firing hands. Otherwise, you will likely miss the target.

3. Practice Your Sight Placement and Sight Alignment

Since accuracy is the game’s name for shooting, sight alignment and sight placement are key for excellent aiming. Sight placement is all about how a shooter positions the weapon’s sights in relation to the target. Meanwhile, sight alignment is how the front blade is centered in the rear sight notch.

Practice maintaining the correct sight placement by focusing on the front sight. It aids the bullet in hitting the target even if the sight picture is slightly off-center.

For sight alignment, it is essential to know when to lower or raise the top of the front sight and level it with the top of the rear sight. It is crucial for accuracy, given that a mere 1/10-inch error in aligning the front sight with the rear sight will lead to missing the aim by 15 inches at a range of 25 meters.

Keep in mind that errors get magnified as the range increases. Thus, it would be best to avoid this whenever you can.

4. Work on Your Breath Control

Learning how to hold one’s breath properly at any given time while shooting is essential in attaining accuracy for any shooter. This is not overnight work, though, since it requires supervised and deliberate practice, demonstration, and guidance.

Seasoned shooters usually already know how to breathe while shooting. Interestingly, the technique is closely similar to the breathing method that photographers practice to ensure image clarity.

Simply put, the key lies in holding the breath at the right moment of the natural respiratory pause while firing to secure accuracy.

5. Do the Trigger Squeeze the Right Way

Improper trigger squeezes cause most of the misses in shooting. Poor shooting results when the aim gets disturbed and misaligned even before the bullet leaves the weapon’s barrel.

Avoid flinching or jerking the trigger and having a slight off-center pressure on the trigger finger since this also negatively affects sight alignment. While flinching is an automatic human reflex due to recoil anticipation and jerking is an attempt to fire with precision, one can easily avoid these problems through dedicated practice.

That is why novice shooters get trained to conquer any urge to anticipate recoil. Over time, knowing how to apply fundamentals decreases this tendency, improving accuracy.

Shooting Forward

Beyond these five tips, handgun shooters can also work on their target engagement and heeling. You can do this by tightening the large muscle in the heel of the hand to prevent the trigger from jerking, hence the technique’s name.

Knowing different positions, such as pistol-ready position, standing position without support, kneeling, crouching, and prone positions, will also help over time.

We understand how overwhelming these techniques can be at times. However, we’re confident that you’ll be able to master them through proper practice and guidance in no time. Keeping the tips we have shared with you in mind is a good start.

References:

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/gun-industry-congratulates-itself-for-drop-in-accidental-gun-deaths_b_58d98645e4b0f805b322b620

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/can-rl360-quantum-help-ti_b_9616008

https://thriveglobal.com/stories/violence-is-not-an-option/

https://www.sheknows.com/health-and-wellness/articles/979867/self-defense-moves-that-could-save-your-life/

https://web.archive.org/web/20130217121045/http://armypubs.army.mil/doctrine/DR_pubs/dr_a/pdf/fm3_23x35.pdf

The post 5 Handgun Shooting Tips for a More Accurate Shot appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

The frequent use and possession of Glock have entitled it as America’s favorite handgun. This unique, reliable, semi-automatic, short recoil-operated, and powerful pistol is American’s most desired gun, as they invest much time in researching on it. In addition, the fact that it is made out of unique plastic material rather than traditional steel and its ease of carrying makes it a buyer’s favorite. Apart from its make and portability, there are several interesting facts associated with it that passionate gun enthusiasts may be interested in knowing.  

1. It does not Come with Preinstalled Maritime Spring Cups

It might come as a surprise for the Glock owners, but the much sought-after maritime spring cups are not installed in the traditional Glocks. Maritime cups are considered standard for a pistol since they allow water to flow through the spring cups in case the gun goes underwater. Unfortunately, the gun goes into a hydro-lock with only the spring cups and cannot muster enough speed to flare up a primer since the striker channel has water in it. 

The only Glock ever to have factory-installed Maritime spring cups is Glock 19X, and although you can custom order your Glock with pre-installed Maritime spring cups, the replacement of these cups is only available for 19X. In addition, Glock demands the suppliers to present the serial number of the pistols that require an upgrade, repair, or replacement. In addition, the fact that a glock 80 lower allows you to build your own G17 or G19-style handgun, is very inviting for the buyers.

2. Gaston Glock Tested the Prototype with Left Hand 

The maker of this gun, Gaston Glock, did not have a firearm testing facility at hand, nor had he stepped into a commercial firearm. Hence, he tested the prototype Glock by building a firing range in the basement of his house. Also, he did not build a fixture to carry out the test; rather, he shot independently with his left hand; in case the gun blew, he would still have the right one to draw out the mechanical plans.

3. Gaston Considered the Glock Grip Angle Significant

Gaston considered the grip angle as a significant element of the pistol. While several consider it useless, it is admired by many gun users. The importance of grip angle can be understood from the military doctrine behind it; to aim and shoot with one hand and blading yourself in front of the target. 

He invited several guests and asked them about their preference for a military sidearm. Eventually, he deduced the right grip angle. 

4. Glock Made its Hollywood Debut with Die Hard 2

Glock marked itself as the choice of the bad guys as it made an appearance in its first movie, Diehard 2. The creator did not care whether an antagonist or protagonist used the gun; rather, its blockbuster Hollywood debut meant everything to him.  

5. Glock 17 is not Named after its Capacity 

Gaston was a very creative arms inventor and proud holder of 16 patents before starting with his 17th patent, Glock 17. So the name Glock 17 and its capacity were merely coincident. On the other hand, glock 80 frame doesn’t mean it’s the 80th patent.

It is no wonder that this light and interesting pistol have become a preference for most Americans. Its durability and swift functioning make it stand out among other modern-day pistols. 

The post 5 Interesting Facts About Glock You Probably Didn’t Know appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

The field is wide open for ammunition calibers in your pistol caliber carbine. From 4.6x30mm fired from a Banshee 300 made by CMMG to 9mm and .40 caliber rounds fired in a Kel-Tec sub-2000, you have your pick of what type of ammunition works best for you. If you are specifically interested in 9mm, read more here. 

CMMG also offers a pistol cartridge carbine – the Resolute 300 – that performs flawlessly firing .22LR caliber rounds. If you have a Colt handgun that accommodates .45 ACP ammunition, then a High-point .45 ACP carbine will fit the bill nicely.

If you’re looking for even more compatibility, consider the pistol caliber carbine from Ruger. Not only does the Ruger PC accommodate readily available 9mm ammunition, but it handles both Ruger and Glock magazines with consistent dependability. This cross-industry application puts the Ruger PC in a class of its own.

Additionally, ammunition compatibility and even magazine compatibility prove to be a big plus with a pistol caliber carbine. One real-world example is if you own one of the more popular handguns, such as Glock or Sig Sauer firing 9mm cartridges, you can pick a PCC that handles the same caliber and often the same magazine.

One of the more noted reasons that make a pistol caliber carbine a wise choice is, of course, ammunition compatibility. For those who think managing various calibers of ammunition is not a problem, a pistol caliber carbine might not be a favorite choice.

However, if your budget is tight and you enjoy having a one-size-fits-all ammunition stock and often a one-magazine-fits-all, then a pistol cartridge carbine may be the way to go.

Niche Market

One of the first things you probably need to understand is that traditional AR platform rifles are typically chambered to accommodate a specific type of round with better trajectory and ballistics.

AR-15 carbines chambered to accept pistol rounds aren’t as powerful and won’t provide the same distance and accuracy. However, when using a pistol caliber carbine in a home defense situation, a PCC fills that niche market very well.

Although you’re firing pistol rounds, which may over-penetrate, a pistol cartridge carbine in close quarters may better suit your environment than a shoulder-mounted rifle.

Benefits

Although you may sacrifice a bit of stopping power with a pistol cartridge carbine, a couple of trips to the range will be all it takes to understand these rifles offer improved accuracy and handling capabilities.

Yes, you’re firing a pistol round, but you get the advantage of doing so from a shoulder-mounted firearm which improves your aiming capacity. Also, felt recoil on a PCC is much less than a typical AR platform rifle.

If you frequent your local range often, you know how loud a muzzle blast from an AR-15 can be. With a pistol caliber carbine, the muzzle blast noise is far less because you’re firing a pistol round through an extended barrel, which considerably silences the shot, making it a bit more bearable.

When it comes to pistol caliber carbines, most gun enthusiasts will agree it’s a semi-automatic carbine that’s arguably one of the best rifles you can have in your arsenal for home defense or tactical close quarter dynamic situations.

Possible Disadvantages

Remember that you’re firing a pistol round in a pistol caliber carbine. Attempting to make a long down-range shot in most cases will be disappointing at best. Hitting your target at ranges of one hundred yards or more should be left up a more powerful bullet with a better trajectory and fired from a true long gun.

Level-set your expectations by understanding that even the most powerful handgun caliber fired from a PCC will pale in comparison to a pedestrian rifle round.

Companies such as CMMG and Kel-Tek, and Hi-Point thoroughly test their products to provide you with a quality carbine that works dependably. Whether it’s a Banshee firing 9MM or a Hi-Point shooting Colt .45 ACP, you can count on the finished product to work as advertised.

Still, the market also has pistol cartridge carbines that have inherent flaws should you choose to use your pistol magazines.

Before you whip out your cash on a pistol caliber carbine, you’ll need to vet the product carefully, especially if you intend to use it for home defense. The last thing you need is an operational failure of your pistol cartridge carbine when your safety is on the line.

One drawback of firing a pistol caliber carbine is that most pistol magazines have a limited capacity of rounds they can hold. Although for many, this means bringing more loaded magazines to the range with you.

If you’re a high-volume shooter, consider looking into a pistol cartridge carbine that accommodates higher volume magazines such as the Ruger PC. Ruger offers a thirty-round capacity magazine that equals the capacity of most AR-15 rifle magazines on the market.

Making the Right Choice

Although you can fire some of the most awesome caliber pistol rounds from a pistol caliber carbine, keep in mind that a PCC isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Many traditional AR-15 owners are happy to stock a sufficient inventory of .223 caliber or 5.56 NATO ammunition alongside magazines full of 9mm and Colt .45 ACP rounds for their Sig Sauer, Glock and Colt ACP handguns without blinking an eye.

Others may choose to simplify their ammunition and magazine requirements and pick a pistol caliber carbine that uses the same magazines and ammo on both.

Still, choosing to purchase any rifle or pistol and even pistol caliber carbines is predicated by how you intend to use the firearm and the conditions of the situation. When the long shot is necessary, shoulder your rifle chambered for that specific round and fire away, but a PCC may be the ultimate right choice for home defense or even a fun-filled day at the local range plinking targets.  

Pistol caliber carbines may have, at one time, been considered a passing novelty in the world of semi-automatic rifles, but one thing is sure. They’ve proven to demonstrate and serve an undeniable role for some applications and will only perform better as technology advances.

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If you are hunting with an AR-15, read on to discover how to improve your aim. 

Get a Brass Deflector 

A powerful way to take your aim to the next level is to get the best AR-15 brass deflector you can afford. A brass deflector can substantially improve your shooting experience in various scenarios, and it is a critical tool if you’re looking for long-range precision. Moreover, a brass deflector can also help left-handed hunters improve their shooting precision. The benefits of using a brass deflector are numerous. 

Customize Your AR-15 According to Your Goals 

A significant benefit of hunting with an AR-15 is that you can customize almost every component of your weapon. Thus, you can optimize the modularity to ensure it complements your hunting style and helps you get the most out of your gun. 

To improve your aim while hunting with an AR-15, determine what type of prey you want to focus on. Then choose a barrel according to this detail. For example, if you’re after fast and small animals, you need a small barrel because it’s light and easy to carry. If you’re after larger game like deer, you will need a longer barrel, which will increase your accuracy. Plus, a long barrel has more penetrating power. 

An AR-15 can help you get incredibly accurate shots. However, accuracy depends not just on skills but also on hardware. When customizing your hunting rifle, make sure the components you choose support exceptional accuracy. Consider getting a free-floating handguard, a trigger with enough pull weight, a good laser sight or a red dot magnifier. These tools will help you improve your aim and take down every animal you’re after. 

Build Muscle Memory with Practice 

Once your AR-15 is perfectly customized for hunting, the only way to further improve your shooting accuracy is to practice as much as possible. Constant practice allows you to build muscle memory and significantly shorten your reaction time. The value of practice cannot be overestimated. 

Although some hunters have an instinct for shooting, others need to work on getting a good aim. Practice trains your muscle memory, enabling you to refine your shooting instinct. If you practice inconsistently, you may not notice significant improvement from one session to another. Consider going to the shooting range regularly. Practice on moving targets. 

AR-15 is a popular hunting rifle. However, to get the most out of your shooting experience, you will have to customize the gun according to your goals. Use the tips above to become the best hunter you can be.  

The post Hunting with an AR-15: How to Improve Your Aim appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

On the other hand, you also need a reliable airsoft gun when you’re on the offensive. There are lots of options you can choose from, and you need to understand how they work and how far they shoot to maximize their potential.

How Do Airsoft Guns Work?

There are hundreds of airsoft guns you can choose from, but most of them, if not all, can be divided into four main categories. Allow us to make your airsoft gun shopping easier by discussing the four types of airsoft gun mechanisms, namely, spring, AEG, gas, and HPA.

Spring

Airsoft guns that use spring, otherwise known as springers, are your entry-level arsenal. The main propulsion system that shoots the ammunition out of the barrel is spring.

This type of airsoft gun is completely manual, which means you need to cock it every time you wish to shoot. As such, springers aren’t the best option for competitive play. Nonetheless, they will provide you with a general idea of how airsoft guns, and airsoft games in general, work.

Basically, the BB or the ammunition is pushed into the gun’s barrel. You then have to pull the slide back to prepare the hammer. Upon pulling the trigger, the tension on the spring is released and propels the BB out of the barrel.

While most springer handguns are written off as low-quality airsoft guns, advanced airsoft snipers prefer them. In the hands of a skilled marksman, an upgraded springer sniper rifle can exceed the performance of other types of airsoft guns.

AEG

AEG stands for automatic electric gun. If you plan to head onto the playing field, this type of gun is the most common one you’ll encounter.

As the name suggests, it runs on electricity sourced from a battery that supplies power to a motor inside the gun. When you pull the trigger, the set of gears inside the gun swiftly rotates and pulls the piston backward toward a spring mechanism. After a certain number of rotations, the tension from the spring is released and propels the BB forward and out of the barrel.

Most AEGs nowadays run on lithium polymer batteries. They’re a great choice both for beginners and intermediate players.

AEGs have the widest array of gun model options. If you have a preferred specific gun model, chances are, there’s an AEG version of it.

Gas

Airsoft guns that run on gas are often hailed as the best-performing guns in the sport. However, it’s not always the case because of all the different types of gas guns.

For instance, the GBB or gas blowback gun, the most common type, can easily be outperformed by HPA, AEG, and some upgraded springers. That’s because GBB guns aim more for realism rather than power. They’re capable of loading the next round onto the chamber and giving the user a stronger recoil power.

On the other hand, NBB or non-blowback guns prevent the slide from recoiling. Since no energy is wasted for other operations, NBBs often have a higher FPS than GBBs.

The last category of gas guns caters to sniper rifles. They’re not as common as GBBs and NBBs but are still quite popular nonetheless.

Gas sniper rifles often require the user to reset the hammer before firing it again. The upside is that this type of gas gun has the highest FPS rating among the three. However, their performance might degenerate when used with low magazine gas and in bad weather.

HPA

HPA or high-pressure air guns are the reigning kings when it comes to speedsoft, which is basically fast-paced gameplay of airsoft. That’s because HPA guns work almost exactly like paintball guns.

You have an external hose that connects the gun to a tank on your back or pelvis. This tank compresses air and pushes the BB out of the barrel with the pull of a trigger.

However, you must set the appropriate level of PSI to guarantee that your gun can handle the pressure. This is also to ensure the safety of you and other players on the field.

How Far Do Airsoft Guns Shoot?

Aside from the type of propulsion system, the distance a BB can travel depends on the specific type of airsoft gun you’re using.

Pistol

A pistol is used for short to mid-range shooting, so it doesn’t need to reach extremely long distances. On average, an airsoft pistol’s BB can reach 80 feet or 25 meters.

Shotgun

Shotguns are also meant for CQB scenarios or close-quarters battles. Ergo, their average shooting distance is only about 100 feet or 30 meters.

Rifle and SMG

Rifles and submachine guns or SMGs are for mid- to long-range combat. That’s why their average shooting distance is about twice as far as shotguns at 200 feet or 61 meters.

Sniper

These stealth players hide far from the enemy and use their skills for long-range hits. On average, an airsoft rifle can reach as far as 300 feet or 92 meters.

Conclusion

With all the holidays and vacations slowly approaching, it might be time to revisit your wish list of all your dream airsoft guns. While there are thousands of models to choose from, you first need to determine the shooting mechanism you prefer and the type of gun you need.

Understanding the different types of airsoft guns, how they work, their strengths, weaknesses, and how far they shoot will improve your performance on the field.

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Firstly there are a few basic safety rules that everybody, regardless of their experience should follow and it is imperative all gun users and owners are aware of them.

1. Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction and never at something you don’t want to be destroyed. It’s an obvious one but one that needs stating nonetheless.
   
2. Keep your finger off of the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Keep your finger alongside the gun and only touch the trigger when you are about to fire. 
   
3. Always keep your gun unloaded until you are about to shoot. That said even if it is unloaded always treat it at though it is loaded regardless of the fact you may know better.
   
4. Always know what is behind your target. Bullets are powerful and can penetrate many things so for the avoidance of doubt be sure you know what is behind your target. 
   
5. Always use the correct ammunition for your gun.

Before committing to buying a gun it is a good idea to handle a gun and get a feel for what feels comfortable with. For those new to shooting it is recommended that they go to a local driving range where they can learn about a variety of guns and undertake a number of training courses. It is always recommended that new gun users undertake a basic firearms training course and learn the basics such as firing, loading, and cleaning their guns. Classes offered at a shooting range can vary from beginner to advanced and many ranges offer up memberships for regular practice. At some ranges, you will be able to undertake a state-recognized permit enabling you to carry your gun, therange702.com in Nevada is one such range you can obtain this permit from. 

When it comes to buying a gun this can be done online or in-store but if it is the first gun it is recommended the gun is purchased in person. Stores that sell guns will be only too happy to walk and talk new owners through the different types of guns available and discuss their needs and preferences. They will then be happy to make an expert recommendation on the type of gun and ammunition that is best suited. Remember when buying a gun the law varies from state to state so ensure you check out the requirements of your state. That said there are some basic guidelines to be mindful of; 

1. You must be over 21.
   
2. You must not have been convicted of a felony.
   
3. You must not be declared mentally incompetent
   
4. You must not be using medication or drugs that impair your ability.
   

It is likely you will have to undergo a criminal record check that is run through a federal database and further some states will require you to register the gun. Failure to do so will result in a criminal offense.  

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What is even better, it outperforms the ever popular .308 Win and 30-06 with less felt recoil, making it a true hunters dream caliber – especially when used with a muzzle brake. The additional reduction of force and barrel lift allows even small framed shooters to handle the shot with ease.

Of course the addition of a muzzle break isn’t an absolute for a rifle that accepts the 6.5 CM, but it certainly is a viable option that you should seriously consider, especially when teaching children how to shoot. 

What is a Muzzle Brake?

A muzzle brake is a muzzle device that fits snugly onto the end of your barrel either via a clamping system or threaded on (which is preferred to keep it snug and easy to swap out if ever needed). It is simple in design and looks like a short steel tube, slightly larger in diameter than your barrel. It works to redirect the gasses created when you shoot through vented prtrs that are built into the design. These ports redirect the gasses and release them in a controlled manner, thus reducing the felt recoil and working to help counteract muzzle lift as well. Most brakes offer up to a 50% reduction in these forces. 

A word to the wise, however, they increase the volume of your shot, creating a compressive shock and sound that can be quite loud to anyone standing nearby. Luckily, the shooter avoids the worst of this due to standing behind the gas release.. 

Muzzle Brake Sizes

You aren’t going to shop too heavily for a muzzle brake based on size. Rather, you want to choose one based on what specifics it offers – such as hybrid benefits that suppress flash and work as a compensator for increased barrel control. All brakes are generally measured a few inches in length and weight between 2 and 4 ounces. They are designed to avoid elongating the barrel too much, or adding a noticeable increase in weight.

What you do need to pay particular attention to is the thread. The size you want for a 6.5 CM barrel is almost exclusively always going to fit a more universal 5/8-24 TPI threaded muzzle. Most tactical barrels are already threaded, but even if you have an option that requires threading, a professional gunsmith can get it done for you with minimal effort. 

6.5 CM Muzzle Brake Benefits

To determine if you truly need a muzzle brake for your 6.5 Creedmoor, let’s take a closer look at the benefits they offer. First off, muzzle devices are an easy modification that doesn’t require professional gunsmithing or any special steps. At the most, you will want to adjust your sighting in your rifle and simply get used to the slight changes it may offer in how it feels when shooting. Otherwise, you will more or less begin to reap the benefits of a more stable mizzle and reduced recoil pretty much right away!

• Provides up to a 50% reduction in felt recoil
• Offers reduction of muzzle lift 
• Allows you to stay on target for a follow up shot
• Provides accuracy and efficiency for competition shooting
• Allows you to shoot higher caliber bullets for longer without becoming fatigued
• Provides a more controlled shooting scenario for small framed bodies and children

The Bottom Line

What this all comes down to if you are wondering if you truly need a muzzle break is personal preferences and justification for use. The 6.5 Creedmoor is a popular round for hunting purposes due to its long range accuracy and has made a name for itself in match competition as well. Even though it isn’t an incredibly hard hitting option to begin with, the addition of a muzzle brake can provide a more comfortable shooting experience through the reduction of recoil and improved barrel control. 

As for what type of brake and the size you should consider, always look closely at what the product offers – such as direction of gas dispersion for barrel control and muzzle flash suppression. As long as the brake offers a 5/8-24 TPI thread, you should have no issues with compatibility. 

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