Choosing your first gun — whether for self-defense, hunting or sport shooting — is a big decision. With countless models available, finding the best first gun can feel overwhelming. This beginner-friendly guide simplifies your search for the best starting gun by highlighting top handguns and rifles, focusing on ease of use, reliability and safety. We’ll also walk through key considerations to help you make a confident, informed first purchase.
How to Choose Your First Gun
While everyone’s needs are different, the factors to consider when selecting your first firearm are generally the same. Start by identifying your main purpose — self-defense, hunting or recreational shooting — since this will determine whether a handgun or rifle is more appropriate.
A good first handgun or rifle should help you develop key shooting fundamentals such as grip, trigger control, sight alignment and recoil management. The gun should fit comfortably in your hand, allowing you to reach the trigger without adjusting your grip. For beginners, it’s essential to choose a firearm that is simple to operate and offers manageable recoil. Reliability is just as important — selecting a well-known brand with a proven track record ensures your gun performs when you need it most. Also consider ease of maintenance: a firearm that’s simple to clean and has widely available parts will save you time, effort and frustration in the long run.
Budget matters, but it’s about more than just the cost of the gun itself. Be sure to factor in the price of ammunition, training and essential accessories like holsters, cleaning kits and secure storage. No matter which firearm you choose, investing in safety training is crucial to becoming a responsible and confident gun owner.
Best First Handgun
With over 5 million new gun owners in 2020 alone, it’s no surprise that many are searching for the best hand gun to buy. For new shooters, a quality .22 rimfire handgun is a smart starting point. Handguns are easier to store securely in a locking box and are well-suited for indoor ranges. Most ranges allow you to set targets from 5 to 25 yards — ideal distances for developing defensive shooting skills and building confidence early on.
Why Start with a .22?
For new shooters, a .22 caliber handgun is often the best first pistol. The .22 LR cartridge is affordable, produces very little recoil and runs quietly — making it ideal for beginners. A .22 revolver is especially user-friendly thanks to its simple operation, allowing new shooters to focus on marksmanship fundamentals without being distracted by complex mechanics.
Top .22 Revolvers for Beginners
Starting with a double-action revolver helps new shooters build patience and develop trigger control — foundational skills that carry over to other types of firearms.
Great .22 revolver options include:
- Smith & Wesson Model 63
- Ruger 3-inch LCRx
- Taurus 3-inch Model 942
All offer manageable triggers, prominent sights and the option for single-action thumb-cocking.
9mm Options for New Shooters
If you’re weighing .22 or 9mm for first gun decisions, a striker-fired 9mm handgun is also a great entry point. One of the most common mistakes new shooters make is choosing a firearm that’s too large or powerful to handle comfortably. Instead, select a gun you can control with ease and practice with consistently — comfort and confidence are key to building lasting skills.
Top beginner-friendly 9mm models include:
- KelTec P11
- Taurus PT-111
- Springfield Armory Hellcat
- Smith & Wesson Shield Plus
- SIG Sauer P365
Best First Rifle
For those leaning toward a rifle, choosing the best first rifle means selecting a firearm that prioritizes safety, accuracy and ease of use. Rifles are excellent for learning the basics of sight alignment, sight picture, trigger press, grip and recoil control. A longer barrel makes it easier to maintain safe handling by clearly showing where the muzzle is pointed. During training, a rifle can even be used as a single-shot by removing the magazine and manually cycling the bolt for each shot. Recoil is minimal, mechanical accuracy is high and ammunition is generally affordable.
Why the Ruger 10/22 Is a Top Pick
A .22 rifle encourages regular practice and motivates new shooters to explore outdoor shooting activities. One of its biggest advantages is that it’s rarely outgrown, making it one of the best rifles for a beginner and a smart long-term investment.
A standout example is the Ruger 10/22, widely regarded as one of the best beginner rifles for its reliability and accuracy. In the hands of a trained shooter, the 10/22 can consistently place five rounds within a 3-inch group at 50 yards.
Buying Your First Gun
Your first trip to a gun store can feel intimidating. Many new buyers worry they’ll be judged for not knowing enough and try to “fake it” to avoid looking inexperienced. In reality, most staff appreciate when you’re honest about your knowledge level — it helps them provide better guidance and communicate on your terms.
Gun Store Etiquette for First-Time Buyers
Gun stores have their own etiquette, and following a few simple rules can make you a customer that staff are glad to help. Here are some behavior tips to keep in mind:
- Always double-check that the gun is unloaded.
When a clerk hands you a firearm to inspect, open it again to confirm it’s unloaded — even if he or she already did. This extra step shows that you prioritize safety, and it’s something good salespeople will respect. - Ask before dry-firing.
Before you press the trigger on an empty gun, ask the clerk if it’s OK to “dry-fire” it. Most modern firearms can handle it just fine, but it’s polite to ask since you’re handling store property. - Be mindful of muzzle direction.
If you want to look through the sights, never point the gun at the clerk — or anyone else. Start by aiming it at the floor, then raise it carefully toward a blank wall or ceiling area to simulate a safe target. - Return the firearm safely.
When handing the gun back, offer it butt-first or with the muzzle pointed up or down — never toward the person helping you.
How to Buy a Gun
Before visiting a gun shop, take time to research different types of firearms and get a clear sense of what you’re looking for. Many stores have on-site ranges and offer firearm rentals, giving you a chance to test various models. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and handle multiple guns —finding one that feels right in your hand is an important part of the process.
Understanding Form 4473
When you purchase a firearm, you’ll need to complete ATF Form 4473, which collects your contact details and verifies your legal eligibility to own a gun. The form includes a series of yes-or-no questions about your background. If you answer “no” to any required eligibility criteria, the sale cannot proceed. Most importantly, never lie on Form 4473 — it’s a federal felony that can result in steep fines and prison time.
What to Expect from a Background Check
After completing the form, the dealer will contact the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to ensure you’re not prohibited from owning a firearm. This process usually takes just a few minutes. Occasionally, the system may return a “deny” or “delay” result. If your record is clean, it’s likely a system error, and your dealer can help guide you through the steps to resolve it.
Final Steps After Your Purchase
Once your background check is approved, you’re officially the proud owner of a new firearm. Some stores may escort you to the front door while carrying the firearm for you — a common policy to ensure safety and compliance. Procedures can vary by retailer, so don’t be surprised if your store follows a similar process.
Choosing the Best First Gun
Choosing your first gun is a significant decision that requires thoughtful consideration of your goals, experience, intended purpose, ease of use and budget. Whether you’re searching for the best first handgun, the best beginner rifle, or weighing .22 or 9mm for your first gun, your choice should be something you can handle comfortably, train with regularly and trust in critical moments. By understanding your needs and doing thorough research, you’ll be well-prepared to select a firearm that fits your lifestyle — whether for self-defense, hunting or recreational shooting. Most importantly, prioritize safety and invest in proper training to build confidence and ensure responsible gun ownership. With the right approach, your first gun purchase can offer protection, personal growth and lasting peace of mind.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 9mm good for beginners?
Yes, a striker-fired 9mm handgun is a great option for beginners due to its manageable recoil, reliability, and suitability for regular practice and personal defense.
What gun is good for a first-time gun owner?
A .22-caliber revolver or rifle is ideal for first-time gun owners because of its simplicity, low recoil and ease of use, while 9mm pistols are also excellent beginner choices.
Is a revolver or semi-automatic pistol better for a first-time shooter?
A .22 revolver is often better for first-time shooters thanks to its simple operation, allowing beginners to focus on fundamentals like trigger control and marksmanship.
This article is a compilation of previous blog posts authored by Bob Campbell, Scott W. Wagner and Kevin Michalowski.
