Best way/gun/range to get started with guns in L.A.?

[TruthWhisperer]

Hey guys, my first post, and I hope it's in the correct sub forum.

As I'm in California, I'm subject to some crazy gun control laws, and more are passed seemingly each month that goes by.

Does anyone have any advice as to how a total newbie like myself should get started to learn how to shoot, get a decent handgun, all without getting ripped off?

Thanks a bunch!

 

[g-dad]

The internet is your friend. Just a quick search turned up the 10 best stores / ranges in LA county. Start there. They can give you correct info on what you can buy. Then check the prices with some on line gun sellers. But support your local stores if possible.

BTW, welcome to the forum.

 

[Jack Flash]

First thing is to decide what handgun you want as a first gun. You probably know the two broad classes are Revolver and Semi-Auto.

Everyone is going to have a different opinion, but I advise starting out with a .38 Special revolver, such as a S&W Model 10. Ruger also makes some fine revolvers in that caliber. Others will suggest that you buy a .357 Magnum revolver. The latter will fire .38 Specials as well as .357 Magnums, so you can start out shooting .38 Specials and progress to magnums later on. Nothing wrong with that.

.38 Special ammunition is available just about everywhere and is comparatively cheap. Loading and unloading safely is a lot easier to master with a revolver than a semi-auto.

Getting some instruction would be very advisable. There are a lot of basic shooting classes in my area, perhaps you can find one in yours. Then practice as much as you can.

 

[Marine Corps Air]

Welcome Aboard!!

We have many outstanding forum members here who are always ready to help another member solve a problem or issue.

In addition to the recommendations that have already been posted, I'd like to add:

1. Gun Safety Classes. Safety is important first, last, and always. Firearms are usually unforgiving and a mistake can cause serious injuries or be fatal;

2. Visit a few ranges near you and meet the people there. Talk about their safety rules and how they are enforced. Check out the cost to use the range. Decide which will be your "home" or preferred range.

3. Enroll in and complete marksmanship classes so that you'll continuously be building your proficiency and accuracy with all of your firearms.

4. Buy a really good gun safe! No matter how many firearms that you have, your safe should always permit you to lock up all of your firearms and ammunition so that no one else can have access or use any of your firearms but you.

Someone else will probably eventually say it, so I'll be the first, owning firearms can be very (uncontrollably) "habit forming" and if you're like me, your "Gun Budget" will always need to be replenished. Now is the time to start adding to it!!

 

[golfrj1]

Check in at Cal guns. com, it's a site dedicated to Ca gun owners.. Lots of good info there..

 

[e3mrk]

Move to another State that is more Gun friendly,It's easier.

 

[Bad_Andy]

What part of LA are you in? A good local chain is Turner's Outdoorsman. They have stores throughout la, orange, Ventura, San Bernardino, and riverside counties.

I would start with a basic handgun safety class. Many ranges offer classes. It is a good place to start. Many include some range time so you can try a few handguns out. Keep in mind if you got to a range, most ranges require at least two people together to rent a firearm, so bring a friend who is interested in learning about guns too.

Rent many different types to see what you like first. Revolvers are a good choice, but so are semi-automatics. A handgun safety class will teach you the advantages and dis-advantages of both styles of firearms.

welcome to the forum and continue to ask questions and learn.

 

[islamoradamark]

Bad Andy got good advice i agree try different kinds and different ammo

 

[woodsltc]

Google "NRA Gun Safety Course"....you can then locate an NRA instructor led course near to you. You'll get basic gun training and safety info. You can progress from there and learn at your own pace.

I highly recommend you then join the NRA.


Don

 

[Fishslayer]

Check in at Cal guns. com, it's a site dedicated to Ca gun owners.. Lots of good info there..

It's actually .net. The .com is a backup site.

It's the go to for California gun laws and associated issues.

As far as ranges and gun shops go, they all have haters & fanboiz. Sift through your internet BS filter & go from there. I like Turner's myself & they get plenty of hate. However, I've made most of my purchases through two local small shops in my little town. Turner's generally doesn't have a large supply of pre '97 Smith & Wessons.