Guns have been a significant part of American culture, beliefs, and values for a long time. After all, the Second Amendment of the constitution protects citizens’ rights to own guns.
So, why not exercise this right and equip yourself with this powerful tool to protect yourself and your loved ones in the face of any threat.
But whether it is for self-defense, target shooting, skeet shooting, or hunting, owning a gun requires you to put in considerable amounts of planning and forethought.
Before you rush to the nearest gun store to get your hands on the firearm you are eyeing, there are several essential criteria to consider, especially if you intend to use it for defensive purposes.
Perhaps one of the best ways to increase your odds of finding the best firearm for your needs is by looking at online reviews.
Online reviews help you gain feedback from experts in the industry and previous customers who have purchased the same or similar product to what you intend to buy.
Accordingly, they serve as a very viable virtual tool to determine what you can know about what you can expect with a particular firearm.
The following are a few indispensable aspects of a gun to look for in online reviews to make the right choice and buy a weapon that serves you flawlessly for years to come.
Reliability
Amongst all the factors to consider before purchasing a gun, reliability ranks above all others. The concept is simple.
The gun must fire when you pull the trigger and complete its firing cycle. That means it should eject the spent casing while feeding the next round into the chamber.
A firearm that fails to fire or extract frequently is less a self-defense tool and more a liability.
Glock, Smith and Wesson, Sig Sauer, Heckler, and Koch are some of the most leading firearm brands on the planet today that may have come into existence.
With that said, not all guns work flawlessly with all types of ammunition, even quality ammo. Some are picky about the ammo you use in them, while others digest whatever you put into them.
For example, previous users may identify that a gun does not function well with a certain type of ammunition, such as FMJ, which is not the ideal choice for a self-defense round.
Understanding the difference between handgun and pistol caliber is also crucial, as it can significantly impact your firearm’s reliability and suitability for your specific needs, further emphasizing the importance of thorough research and consideration before making a purchase.
If an online review about a particular firearm or its model raises questions about its reliability, it is in your best interest to steer clear of it.
You may visit AmericanFirearms.org to read in-depth reviews and learn more about your favorite firearms so you can make an informed decision when you walk into the gun store.
After all, a misfire during a defensive situation may well be the difference between getting killed or living to see another day.
Accuracy and Precision
While accuracy is mainly dependent on the shooter’s experience, aim, trigger squeeze, and how well the gun is taken care of, some guns are inherently more accurate and others not so much.
What makes a firearm accurate and precise is its ability to hit the target exactly where you are aiming over and again.
Online reviews can be a good source of distinguishing between guns that can put together good groups and those that shoot all over the place.
Aftermarket Parts Availability
Before deciding to buy your first firearm, read up on online reviews of your desired gun to ensure there are plenty of custom aftermarket parts and accessories available for it.
These may include but are not limited to spare magazines, optics like scopes and red dot sights, and more. If you intend to conceal carry, ensure there are holsters specifically designed for it.
After all, buying a gun only to discover that you can not customize and use it the way you want it to will only make you repent your decision.
Ease of Maintenance
A firearm requires routine care and maintenance. It is imperative to clean your gun after each firing session.
Maintaining your firearm by giving it a good cleaning will keep it functioning at optimum efficiency and reliability and prolong its lifespan.
Neglecting it will result in residue buildup, corrosion, or rust. That will lead to malfunctions and jamming issues, which only translates to unreliable and unpredictable performance of the firearm.
But when it comes to ease of maintenance, not all guns are designed the same. As your first firearm, you want one that is relatively easy to disassemble and clean.
For example, Glocks can come apart in a breeze and shoot flawlessly with minimal maintenance. Go for a more noob-friendly experience while choosing your first gun.
While others’ opinions can certainly influence you to make the right decision when you walk into the gun store, we cannot stress the importance of choosing a gun that has good ergonomics and fits perfectly in your hands.
Buying a gun that is comfortable to handle is at the core of feeling confident with your weapon, taking better aim, and above all, ensuring safe handling of the firearm.
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