Phoenix84
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Post by Phoenix84 on May 2, 2014 14:34:29 GMT -5
I don't know how it's going to work. If you have to pay for each gun rented or if you pay one fee and they'll let you try several different guns.
I also have no frame of reference for how expensive ammo is. If it's just $15 for a box of 45 that's reasonable.
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Phoenix84
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Post by Phoenix84 on May 2, 2014 14:37:51 GMT -5
I don't know how interested I'll be in it long term. For now it's just one of those things I've never done but want to try.
If I really like it I may end up purchasing a firearm or getting paying for more "official" firearm training. I don't really feel the need to have a weapon for my personal safety though.
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Post by The Walk of the Penguin Mich on May 2, 2014 14:42:51 GMT -5
I don't know how it's going to work. If you have to pay for each gun rented or if you pay one fee and they'll let you try several different guns. I also have no frame of reference for how expensive ammo is. If it's just $15 for a box of 45 that's reasonable. The place where we buy ammo, it runs about $16 for a box of 50 9 mm. 45 ACP is around $20/box. Unfortunately, they are out of both right now. We went down last month and bought 3000 rounds of 45 ACP and are set for awhile. When TD went out to the range the first time, they let him try a bunch of different guns. I'm not sure how they worked it out rental wise though because he had already bought his first Glock by the time he took me out shooting the first time. When we go to the range to practice, we'll go through 1-2 boxes each. When we go to practice class with an instructor, we'll go through around 200 or so rounds each day, each.
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kent
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Post by kent on May 2, 2014 14:48:11 GMT -5
This process will come up quickly so watch this - "How to rack a slide like a lady" Don't be put off by the "lady" part, it applies to everyone.
Loading a magazine
To give you a "rough" idea of what ammo costs
www.targetsportsusa.com//c-26-handgun-ammo.aspx
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Phoenix84
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Post by Phoenix84 on May 2, 2014 15:00:45 GMT -5
Thanks for the info everyone. Keep the pearls of wisdom coming if you got any more.
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constanz22
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Post by constanz22 on May 2, 2014 15:06:01 GMT -5
Always count your bullets and look in the barrel before just thinking its empty. Just to clarify for Phoenix - do not look down the barrel with the gun pointing at you EVER. When Zib says "look in the barrel", she means either look from the back (if you have a gun that has a clear field of view, don't know if the Glock has that from the back) or into the empty chamber that you can see from the side when it's open. Repeat - DO NOT look down the barrel from the front. Very important. I'm glad you clarified that. I read that and thought, "holy shit no!" I just took the 8 hour NRA basic pistol class last weekend. It was an awesome class and highly recommend it. Everyone else has pretty much covered the main safety rules. I'm not sure a first time shooter should be starting off with a glock, but anyway. I am loving shooting. I wish there were more ranges and opportunities around here. I am thinking about buying a second handgun.
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zibazinski
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Post by zibazinski on May 2, 2014 15:16:58 GMT -5
I know, I know. I KNOW what I mean but explaining it is different.
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Bob Ross
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Post by Bob Ross on May 2, 2014 15:30:04 GMT -5
If your friend and his dad are going to teach you how to shoot, why are you first asking internet weirdos to teach you how to shoot?
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milee
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Post by milee on May 2, 2014 15:45:04 GMT -5
Phoenix, even if you don't watch the videos pictured in Kent's post - notice how the woman is holding the gun. She's got her "trigger" finger outside the trigger guard and nowhere near the trigger - perfect! That's what you want to do when you pick up the gun and 100% of the time until you're actually ready to fire. I've heard most beginners tend to pick up the gun and want to automatically put their finger on the trigger, so you can already look like you know what you're doing by just knowing that one simple safety technique.
Check with your friend about the ammo. It will be much easier if you can buy it there, but in some areas certain ammunition is still hard to get or only available sporadically, so it would be good if your friend knows in advance he needs to get it for you, too. Right after that awful Connecticut school shooting, people stockpiled and it's only been in the last few months that supplies are coming back to normal. Other than the rimfire .22s, my husband loads all his own and even the supplies for reloading have been tough to find.
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milee
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Post by milee on May 2, 2014 15:47:11 GMT -5
If your friend and his dad are going to teach you how to shoot, why are you first asking internet weirdos to teach you how to shoot? Because he's seen my picture and knows I am obviously an expert with guns.
(Sorry, couldn't resist!)
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milee
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Post by milee on May 2, 2014 15:47:45 GMT -5
Oh, and safety tip #1 - don't point your gun at your junk like the guy in that picture. Bad idea.
And now you're probably scarred for life. You're welcome.
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Phoenix84
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Post by Phoenix84 on May 2, 2014 15:47:49 GMT -5
If your friend and his dad are going to teach you how to shoot, why are you first asking internet weirdos to teach you how to shoot? Well, I figure the more I know going in the easier the training will be. Besides, you guys need me creating threads once and a while or things get stale. You see, I'm doing this board a public service by giving you topics to discuss.
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milee
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Post by milee on May 2, 2014 15:52:07 GMT -5
And don't shoot topless like that guy, either.
In fact, I like to make sure I wear a shirt with a high, reasonably fitted collar because then you don't have to worry about a hot shell falling down the front of your shirt. It's more common than you'd think especially if you're close to other people. We recently had a guy accidentally shot (not fatal, he lived) when he was teaching his GF to shoot and a shell dropped down the front of her shirt, getting caught in her bra. It burned her and as she jumped, her gun went off and she shot him. Ooops. Wear a shirt without a gaping collar and you'll be fine.
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constanz22
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Post by constanz22 on May 2, 2014 15:55:39 GMT -5
Oh, and safety tip #1 - don't point your gun at your junk like the guy in that picture. Bad idea.
And now you're probably scarred for life. You're welcome. From the looks of him, it may be a public service if he shoots off his junk. Just sayin'
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Phoenix84
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Post by Phoenix84 on May 2, 2014 16:00:21 GMT -5
If your friend and his dad are going to teach you how to shoot, why are you first asking internet weirdos to teach you how to shoot? Because he's seen my picture and knows I am obviously an expert with guns.
(Sorry, couldn't resist!)
Well, since you said you were good with guns, outscoring military folks, and would gladly fulfill your son's military obligations in their stead, I figured you were an expert.
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milee
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Post by milee on May 2, 2014 16:03:31 GMT -5
I'm definitely not an expert. My husband is and I learn a lot from him. Sorry I implied otherwise.
I did very well at the long range marksmanship clinic mainly because I'm very slow and methodical and being almost a beginner, listened very closely to everything they taught us instead of having to unlearn any bad habits. The military guys have much more experience than I do and have seen much more action with their weapons, I only know theory and very basic stuff. But apparently I'm trainable.
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kent
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Post by kent on May 2, 2014 16:39:05 GMT -5
FYI
wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_the_difference_between_full_metal_jacket_and_total_metal_jacket_ammo
What is the difference between full metal jacket and total metal jacket ammo?
Answer: 1. The FMJ bullet still has the base of the lead core exposed, a TMJ head is usually used in match shooting and has the lead core completely encased in copper.
2. The full jacket of the TMJ or Total Metal Jacket prevents separation of the lead core with the copper jacket, preventing the lead from blowing out. It is being used more and more as it also prevents much lead pollution as most of the lead expelled in the air by a firearm comes from vaporization of lead at the base of the bullet, which is covered by copper in the TMJ design.
A shotgun, whose shot shell base is covered by a plastic or paper wad, produces the most lead in the air because of the great number of lead pellets abrading the barrel. A handgun or rifle shooting an exposed lead base bullet produces the next greatest amount of lead in the air. The TMJ design produces the least lead pollution.
Targets
You might want to consider getting some targets like these. Note that when a round penetrates the target, there's a highlighted area around the entrance point that makes it very easy to see where it hit so you can adjust your aim accordingly.
Pretty good buy - 100 targets for $30.50
www.pop-n-glo.com/100-Pop-N-Glo-8-Inch-Diameter-Shooting-Targets_p_8.html
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Post by The Walk of the Penguin Mich on May 2, 2014 16:45:38 GMT -5
Right after that awful Connecticut school shooting, people stockpiled and it's only been in the last few months that supplies are coming back to normal. Other than the rimfire .22s, my husband loads all his own and even the supplies for reloading have been tough to find.
We were able to get 45 ACP last month in the first time in nearly a year. Last ammunition we bought was last July as we were driving back from KY, we stopped at sporting stores across the state of Montana and Idaho. Even then, we were only allowed to buy 2 boxes each.
Ammunition has been phenomenally difficult to get up here.
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Post by The Walk of the Penguin Mich on May 2, 2014 16:47:35 GMT -5
You might want to consider getting some targets like these. Note that when a round penetrates the target, there's a highlighted area around the entrance point that makes it very easy to see where it hit so you can adjust your aim accordingly.
Pretty good buy - 100 targets for $30.50
I'd suggest holding off until you know where you are shooting. These would not work in our indoor range.
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kent
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Post by kent on May 2, 2014 17:00:08 GMT -5
May I add?
Handgun Accuracy How To: Two Handed Grip
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kent
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Post by kent on May 2, 2014 17:01:56 GMT -5
You might want to consider getting some targets like these. Note that when a round penetrates the target, there's a highlighted area around the entrance point that makes it very easy to see where it hit so you can adjust your aim accordingly.
Pretty good buy - 100 targets for $30.50I'd suggest holding off until you know where you are shooting. These would not work in our indoor range. Mich, why won't they work at your indoor range? Just curious.
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Post by The Walk of the Penguin Mich on May 2, 2014 18:26:45 GMT -5
You might want to consider getting some targets like these. Note that when a round penetrates the target, there's a highlighted area around the entrance point that makes it very easy to see where it hit so you can adjust your aim accordingly.
Pretty good buy - 100 targets for $30.50I'd suggest holding off until you know where you are shooting. These would not work in our indoor range. Mich, why won't they work at your indoor range? Just curious. The indoor range uses a clip at the top, so that the target hangs down. There needs to be about 4" of paper for the clip to grab. The range also does not like you to use any adhesive, including adhesive on the back of targets. The only thing ou can use is masking tape to tape up holes. Now, you can use them at the outdoor range in the facility though, because they have a different set up. You can also use FMJ outside, and higher caliber guns. TD can only shoot his Sig out there.
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zibazinski
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Post by zibazinski on May 2, 2014 20:40:00 GMT -5
Closed toed shoes.
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Peace Of Mind
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[font color="#8f2520"]~ Drinks Well With Others ~[/font]
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Post by Peace Of Mind on May 3, 2014 1:09:05 GMT -5
May I add? Don't shoot off your finger. It would make it harder to type.
That's all I've got.
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ktunes
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Post by ktunes on May 3, 2014 5:04:28 GMT -5
shooting sports can be a lot of fun...there are general rules to abide by which have been mentioned... always assume the gun is loaded... never put your finger on the trigger until you are ready to fire the weapon (that takes getting used to, it's kind of a natural motion when you pick up a gun to put your finger on the trigger)... always point the gun in a safe direction... know what's beyond your target...
most indoor ranges have rules to follow...you can't draw from a holster, no rapid fire...you will most likely have to sign something that spells out all the rules...ask what range you will be going to, if they have a website they will post the rules so you can become familiar with them in advance...
at most ranges, if you rent a gun, it is a one time charge and you can swap the gun out as many times as you wish...they usually require you to have to buy their ammo when you rent...so you would be better off sticking with one or two different calibers...
there are a lot of videos on youtube about firearms...reviews, how to clean, etc...of course it's youtube so how do you know if they are correct in what they say...i can recommend one channel, hickok45...he's an older fellow with a sense of humor that used to compete in his younger day...i'm sure he has several videos that could be of help on stance, sites etc...
i hope you enjoy your first experience and let us know how things go...
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zibazinski
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Post by zibazinski on May 3, 2014 7:42:57 GMT -5
Our range gives you a gun and ten rounds and a half hour time for $20. This is where I weeded out guns I didn't like so was invaluable.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on May 3, 2014 21:31:15 GMT -5
Lots of good advice given...I would say, based on my own experience, you're gonna be nervous so practice some deep breathing exercises, arm and hand shake-out (before holding gun of course, lol) and get yourself as calm, focused and 'centered' before you actually shoot as possible. Practice your body balance/stance, what feels most comfortable for you. Take your time! Focus on your target, *try using both eyes, and then using one eye* be r-e-l-a-x-e-d but control your arm/hand muscles to fully keep strong control/hold of weapon so that once you fire the impact/velocity of your bullet doesn't land 50 ft. left/right/up/down of target (lol), exhale before you shoot and S-L-O-W-L-Y pull the trigger...
Do some imagery work starting now... Hope you'll enjoy it! Good Luck!
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moneymaven
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Post by moneymaven on May 4, 2014 1:56:59 GMT -5
Always point the gun down range. Never put your finger on the trigger unless you intend to shoot. Don't ever point the gun at anything you don't intend to shoot. Eye and ear protection are necessary. Bring clothes that you can shoot in and plan to shower ASAP after - that lead is heavy in a closed range. Don't try anything you're unsure about. Always safe the gun: learn to clear the chamber and magazine before handling. Learn how to properly load. There's a lot of common sense stuff. Almost all ranges have someone walking around. Don't be afraid to ask questions- they welcome it!
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moneymaven
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Post by moneymaven on May 4, 2014 2:02:53 GMT -5
What do you mean buy ammunition beforehand? Do you mean buy it here in Colorado and take it to Virignia with me? I assume you could check a box of ammunition in your luggage. I was told the range is also a gun store and I could buy ammunition there. I was planning on shooting about 50 rounds. Where in CO are you Phoenix? I always just assumed you were in AZ based on your screen name!
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moneymaven
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Post by moneymaven on May 4, 2014 2:10:12 GMT -5
And don't shoot topless like that guy, either.
In fact, I like to make sure I wear a shirt with a high, reasonably fitted collar because then you don't have to worry about a hot shell falling down the front of your shirt. It's more common than you'd think especially if you're close to other people. We recently had a guy accidentally shot (not fatal, he lived) when he was teaching his GF to shoot and a shell dropped down the front of her shirt, getting caught in her bra. It burned her and as she jumped, her gun went off and she shot him. Ooops. Wear a shirt without a gaping collar and you'll be fine. I still have a scar on my breast from a hot shell getting stuck in my bra. Awesome.
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