Top 5 Common Mistakes New Firearm Owners Make and How Firearm Training Can Help You to Avoid Them

Becoming a new firearm owner is an exciting step, but it comes with responsibility. Mistakes can happen, especially when you’re still learning, but these are preventable with the right training and preparation.

Here are the top five common mistakes new firearm owners make and how to avoid them to ensure safety, confidence, and success to being a responsible gun owner.

1. Neglecting Proper Firearm Safety

One of the most common and dangerous mistakes is failing to follow basic firearm safety rules. This includes:

• Keeping your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

• Always treating every firearm as if it’s loaded.

• Never pointing the firearm at anything you’re not willing to destroy.

• Being aware of your target and what’s beyond it.

How to Avoid It: Take a basic firearm safety course to learn the four universal safety rules. Consistent practice will help these habits become second nature.

2. Improper Storage and Handling

Many new firearm owners overlook the importance of secure storage and proper handling. Unsecured firearms can lead to accidents or theft.

It is also imperative that you know how to handle your firearm. That means you know how to safely load and unload your firearm - all while following the safety rules above.

Practicing at home, with ammo locked away, is the best way to become safe handling your firearm.

How to Avoid It: Invest in a high-quality gun safe or lockbox, and always store firearms unloaded with ammunition stored separately. Educate yourself on state laws regarding safe storage requirements. Practice handling your firearm at home (without ammo) so that you feel safe and confident - load magazine, release slide forward. Remove magazine, lock slide back. Keep practicing until you can go through this routine easily.

3. Buying the Wrong Firearm

It’s easy to be influenced by recommendations from friends or flashy advertisements, but not every firearm is suitable for every person. New owners often purchase guns that are too large, too small, or difficult to handle.

How to Avoid It: Take the time to handle different firearms at a range or retail shop. Consider renting several models and calibers to find the one that fits your hand comfortably and meets your needs.

4. Skipping Professional Training

Many new firearm owners believe they can teach themselves to shoot effectively by watching videos or reading online guides. However, self-teaching often leads to developing bad habits.

How to Avoid It: Seek training from a certified instructor. An NRA Basic Pistol Course or an NRA CCW class is an excellent way to build a solid foundation and develop proper techniques.

5. Failing to Practice Regularly

Owning a firearm isn’t enough—you need to practice regularly to maintain your skills. Many new firearm owners head to the range once or twice but don’t put in the consistent practice required for proficiency.

How to Avoid It: Set aside time for regular practice sessions at a local range. Focus on accuracy, trigger control, and handling drills. Consider classes to continue developing your skills and practice dry fire drills (no ammo required) at home.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you become a more confident and responsible firearm owner. Remember, owning a firearm is a lifelong learning process. Prioritize safety, seek ongoing training, and practice regularly.

Are you ready to take your skills to the next level? Contact us today to learn more about firearm safety courses and training opportunities for new gun owners.