Thread: How do I go about learning how to shoot a gun ?

I don't know much about guns and I want to learn how to shoot. What kind of gun should I get to start out with? I would someday like to learn how to hunt.

start with a 22lr, particulary, a marlin model 60, go to a gun range and see if they have lessons avalible, if so, take some

A hunter safety course can be a good place to start your local Division of wildlife/fish and game should have some. I know in Colorado it involves handling a number of firearms and a practical live fire with a .22.

Most shooting ranges offer classes. Call a couple that are local and ask. If all else fails, or there are no ranges around you, go to the National rifle association website at NRA.org and look around. there is a section that will let you search for certified instructors in your area, as well as shooting ranges.

Most instructors have a different full time job or are retired, etc. Dont be afraid to ask about thier backround, experiance etc. Many are former law enforcement/military, but a lot arent.

The most ideal first rifles are .22LR's like the ruger 10/22, marlin 60, mossberg 597 or any bolt action .22LR. You can buy one for $250 or less most places.

For a first rifle you need to go with a 30-06 or bigger

Just joking get a cheap .22 and work your way up from there, hunter safety courses teach you all about guns and wildlife so sign yourself up.

The NRA safety we site has a listing of thousands and thousands of certified pistol and rifle instructors all over the USA. You can surf over and get the phone numbers for one in your area - make contact - and set up a class.

All gun shops (not gun departments like Wal*Mart) but actual gun shops will have a list of recommended instructors.

If there is a local gun club or range - they will always have a list of instructors.

You need to reach out and contact an instructor - generally they do not hold a class until they have enough people signed up.

Most instructors will offer private lessons for women, or, for your family. You should ask about this - because this way the instructor will tailor the class to fit you perfect. Private instruction is not uncommon - I actually prefer it when teaching women - because women learn about firearms 10x faster than men. Really.

After you take a gun class (rifle or pistol) your next move is to take a state certified Hunter Safety Class. This class if focused on how to safely hunt in the woods and take care of the meat once you have harvested it. The class is a good way to network - meet other new hunters - and maybe find someone you can partner up with on your first few hunts. It is always nice to have someone experienced around when you take your first deer - because it take a few hours work before that deer starts to become recognizable cuts of meat you are used to seeing in the store.

If you need any help finding an instructor in your area - email me.