Should I Buy a New Versus Used Gun at Bristlecone?
At Bristlecone Shooting, Training, and Retail Center, located in Lakewood, Colo., we emphasize customer service and want to help our shooters as much as we can. That’s why we believe your shopping experience with us should hands on. This includes your decision on whether or not to buy a new versus used firearm. If you’re in the market to buy, we encourage you to come in and talk to our experts. Here are several factors to consider before you buy a new versus used handgun.
- What is your purpose for wanting to own a firearm? You will need to answer this question first as it will have a bearing on your price point as well your budget in the future for ammo, storage, training, and practice time.
- What is your budget? Once you have a price range, you can start to look at new versus used options and how these will work with your goals. Also, we suggest that you take the time to see how comfortable you are feeling and handling new versus used guns. The great thing about a new handgun, just like buying a new car, is that you’ll be the first owner. However, used handguns can be a smart purchase, too. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you either way.
- How does the firearm feel in your hands? Whatever your purpose is for wanting to own a firearm and whatever your budget is, you’ll want to make sure the firearm feels comfortable for you to hold and that you feel good about handling it. You should be able to operate all of its mechanisms correctly and smoothly. If you aren’t comfortable using it, it’s probably not the right choice for you.
- Have you considered renting before you buy? Another good way to get a feel for what you want before you purchase a gun is to rent one. This way you can be sure of what feels good and comfortable in your own hands before you buy. It can also help you get more experience at a shooting range or take the appropriate classes before you buy.
- Have you been trained on how to use your gun? It makes good sense to get trained on how to use your new or used handgun safely and efficiently. If you’ve gone through the trouble and expense of selecting a handgun, make sure it’s something that you’ll know how to use if you need to. Establishing the proper muscle memory associated with firearms skills takes practice and time. Firearms skills are also perishable. Once you learn the basics, you will need to plan and budget for a regular practice or range time to keep up your skills.
Bristlecone encourages all of our customers to come in and talk to us before renting or purchasing new or used firearms. We offer a full retail store an indoor range and gun rental program, two gunsmiths, firearms instructors and regular classes, as well as competitive matches for practice time and fun. Bristlecone caters to shooters of all skill levels and abilities. To learn more about Bristlecone or our membership services, range, firearms training classes, or retail store, visit www.bristleconeshooting.com or call 303-985-0989.
