Top 3 Guns for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide for New Shooters

Choosing a gun as a beginner can be overwhelming, especially with the countless options available. Whether you're interested in hunting, shooting sports, or just beginning a hobby, selecting the right firearm is crucial. This guide will help you identify the top three guns for beginners, offering insights from a seasoned shooter with over 60 years of experience.

The Most Common Choice: .22 LR Rifles

.22 LR is often one of the most popular choices among beginners, and for good reason. This caliber offers a low cost, minimal recoil, and the ability to learn basic shooting skills with minimal frustration. Many experienced shooters will recommend a .22LR rifle, such as the AR-15 platform, which can be converted to 22 LR for practice.

For me, my dad's 12-gauge shotgun was the first firearm I used. While .22LR is less common, it is still a great choice for those looking to start with something more challenging. However, converting an AR-15, such as a .223 AR, to shoot .22 LR can be a cost-effective solution.

Best Advice: Determine your intended use, research appealing features, and consult a reputable firearms dealer in your area. Your first firearm may not be what you initially think, so be open to suggestions based on your specific needs and desires.

Top 3 Guns for Beginners

Bolt Action .22 LR Rifles

Bolt action rifles are excellent for beginners due to their safety and ease of use. If you're leaning towards a bolt action rifle, consider Winchester, Marlin, or Remington models. These rifles teach you to use iron sights and can be later updated with scopes, personalizing the experience and enhancing precision.

Pros: Safer for beginners as you must deliberately manipulate the bolt before each shot. Reliable and accurate. Economical in terms of cost and maintenance. Excellent for hunting small game like squirrels and rabbits.

Pump Action 20 Gauge Shotguns

Pump action shotguns, such as the Remington 870, are favored by many for their reliability and versatility. While other brands like pump shotguns with 16 gauges or larger are also effective, it's wise to stick with established brands to ensure quality and compatibility.

Pros: Reliable and sturdy design. Efficient for hunting and sports shooting. Easy to maintain. A wide range of accessories available, from different stocks to scopes.

.38 Spl Revolvers

.38 Spl revolvers are a versatile choice for beginners, with options like the Smith Wesson Model 10, Colt Taurus, and Rugers. Choose a 4-inch barrel for better accuracy and fun shooting.

Pros: Safe, simple, and easy to use. Good for self-defense and personal protection. Reliable for recreational shooting. Compact and easy to carry.

Suggestions for Young Shooters

When it comes to younger shooters, consider a few options:

22 Long Rifle Rifle: A great introduction for younger hands. 20 Gauge Shotgun: Suitable for short-barreled hunting. .243 Deer Rifle: Ideal as a starter rifle for deer hunting.

Tomson Center Contender: This is a particularly good choice, as it can be customized with different stocks and calibers, making it suitable for growing warriors. However, it may be a bit pricey, and you may need to acquire it as a starter rifle.

Conclusion

Choosing the right beginner guns is a vital step in any new shooter's journey. Whether you're looking for a reliable bolt action rifle, a versatile pump shotgun, or a safe revolver, the key is to choose a firearm that aligns with your interests and needs. As you gain experience, you can evolve your collection, ensuring you always have the right tool for the job.