Ah … New Year’s resolutions. They’re like those shiny new pistols you picked up at the gun store: so full of potential! But if you’re not careful, those resolutions, just like those guns, could sit in the safe collecting dust. It seems that we all have great intentions, especially at the start of a brand new year, but sometimes life (and maybe that impulse buy, that unexpected bill or that extra slice of pie) can get in the way.
Even so, as we are ever so close to welcoming in 2025, let’s look at some of the best and worst New Year’s resolutions for gun owners.
Best New Year’s Resolutions
1. Train More, Train Often
Training is exercise for your gun skills. Without regular, realistic practice, you’re basically just carrying around a heavy paperweight. A fantastic resolution is committing to regular training. It’s not about just going to the range a few times a year. It’s about making it a part of your routine. Whether using dry-fire drills at home, taking a defensive handgun class or participating in monthly range days, training is where the magic happens. You’ll build muscle memory, increase confidence and (dare I say it?) have fun doing it.
Pro Tip: Set a realistic training goal, like “I’ll dry-fire 10 minutes a day,” or “I’ll attend three training courses this year.” The key is consistency, not perfection.
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2. Organize Your Gear
Say goodbye to 2024 and leave the chaos behind. One of the best resolutions you can make is organizing your gear. From your holster collection to spare magazines, range bags and your favorite tactical flashlights (because who doesn’t love a good flashlight?), getting your gear in order saves time, frustration and possibly your life in an emergency.
Pro Tip: Invest in a dedicated gear storage system (think gun safes, ammo cans or modular toolboxes). Keep a checklist for range prep so you don’t end up at the range only to realize you forgot your ear protection … again. And make sure to change those batteries — in all the things!
3. Upgrade Your EDC Gear
The world of EDC (everyday carry) gear is constantly evolving. That sleek, new pistol-mounted optic with a green dot? Yup, that’s calling your name. The tactical flashlight with a USB charging port? Sign me up! In 2025, resolve to at the very least review your current EDC setup to see if any upgrades or additions could improve your everyday carry experience.
Pro Tip: Make sure you’re not only carrying your firearm but also a backup magazine or two.
4. Get Your Gun Storage Together
Secure gun storage isn’t just for keeping your firearms safe from kids. It’s also about taking care of your gear. A good safe can prevent unauthorized access and protect against moisture, dust and even fire damage. Whether you’re looking for a quick-access safe for your bedside or a full-blown vault for your collection, this is the year to make sure your firearms are properly stored.
Pro Tip: Invest in a safe with biometric access or some quick-access feature for home-defense situations. You don’t need to be fumbling with a keypad in the middle of the night. Also, consider a safe that can travel with your secured guns, as well.
Worst New Year’s Resolutions for Gun Owners
1. Buy More Guns
We all know the age-old resolution to acquire more toys. The temptation is real. But if your resolution involves buying more firearms without first taking the time to master your existing ones, it’s not a resolution, it’s a trap! More guns mean more cleaning, more maintenance and (let’s be honest) more decision fatigue when you need to pick which one to carry.
Pro Tip: Instead of buying more, focus on becoming proficient with the guns you already own. If you really want to expand your collection, make sure you’re investing in quality training, not just more triggers to pull.
2. Carry Every Day (and Never Practice Drawing or Concealing)
Carrying concealed is an important responsibility, but simply carrying doesn’t mean you’re prepared. If you’re resolving to carry every day in 2025, then please also make a resolution to practice drawing your firearm and reholstering it. Make a commitment to use — and train with — effective concealment.
Pro Tip: Carrying isn’t about “checking the box.” It’s about integrating it into your lifestyle safely, comfortably and competently. Use dry-fire drills to practice drawing and reholstering at least once a week to keep your skills sharp.
3. Get My Carry Permit (and Never Think About It Again)
Your permit isn’t the end of your responsibility; it’s just the beginning. Sure, the paperwork is done, but now you need to ensure you’re staying informed, honing your skills and keeping up with any changes in your state’s laws. Thinking that once you’ve got your permit, you can just put it on the shelf and forget about it is the fastest way to end up in a defensive situation that you’re not ready for.
Pro Tip: Attend refresher courses, stay up to date on legal changes and always be willing to evolve in your concealed carry journey. This isn’t a “one-and-done” deal, folks. So be sure to use the USCCA’s plentiful resources to always stay in the know. Stay safe, stay trained and here’s to a responsible New Year ahead!
