Why Gun Stores are Dangerous for New Shooters

I really admire new shooters. I admire the person who has the
courage to come out to a gun class all by themselves even though
they've never touched a gun in their life. It takes a lot of
courage to do this and I commend the people who highly value the
ability to protect themselves.

However, I am also worried for these new shooters. You see, once a
person takes a class they often want to go out and get their first
gun and they're full of enthusiasm. And I think that's a wonderful
thing, but sometimes a visit to the local gun store severely
dampens that enthusiasm.

You see, I have a theory about gun stores. I call it the "90% of
gun store employees are not nice" theory. Originally, the theory
had another name, but my loving wife convinced me that this name
was more appropriate.

So before I continue, let me explain the "90% of gun store
employees are not nice" theory. It's pretty complicated so pay
attention. In short, my theory is that 90% of gun store employees
are not happy campers. I bet they've washed out of police
academies, never achieved their dreams to join the FBI or never
made it to SEAL Team 6.

And due to these failures they are bitter and now feel the need to
be rude to others and belittle them. If you've ever been to gun
store, you've likely experienced this. When my wife and I were out
in California visiting the in-laws last Thanksgiving we went to a
local gun store/shooting range. The guy behind the counter was very
rude to my wife and deserved a kick to the face.

Just a few weeks ago we were at a gun store in Maryland...

And not surprisingly, one of the employees was rude to both of us
and treated us like second-rate citizens who didn't even know what
a gun was.

The point is, I hate to hear about a new shooter who is so excited
about buying their first gun and has the courage to go to the gun
store, just to be treated like dirt or intimidated by some jerk of
an employee. I can only imagine how many people decided not to buy
a gun or who decided guns were not for them after a terrible
interaction at a gun store. (Which is a huge shame, since we all
needs guns to protect ourselves, especially in our homes.)

That's why I want to give you some quick advice if you're a new
shooter getting ready to go purchase your first gun:

First, never forget the "90% of gun store employees are not nice"
theory. Remember, they probably hate their life so try not to take
it personally. Second, if you can help it, do not go to the gun
store alone to look at buying your first gun. Take someone with you
who is knowledgeable about firearms.

But if you have to go alone...

I would take everything the gun store employee says with a grain of
salt. Do not let them talk you into buying a gun that doesn't fit
your hand or that you don't feel comfortable with. Remember, you
are the one who is going to be carrying and shooting this gun, not
the store employee.

Also, do not buy a gun that you have never shot before. Almost
every gun range allows you to rent guns, so go take a "test drive"
of the gun you're thinking of buying.

I could go on and on, but it all boils down to this. You are doing
the right thing by taking responsibility for your own protection
and you know this. So don't let anyone intimidate you about this
or try and talk you out of it.

Lastly, even though I've already said it, please don't go alone if
you can help it. You need someone with you who's patient and
knowledgeable and who's going to take the time to help you find the
gun that's best for you.

Also, even if you're an experienced shooter, please pass this
advice on to the new shooters you know, so they don't think all gun
people are jerks and intimidating.