I’m big on etiquette and believe it’s something not taught in the home much anymore. Etiquette almost seems to have fallen by the wayside. Whether it involves dining out, visiting someone’s home or when handling a firearm, it’s something people should practice. I’ve written about etiquette on the range, while shooting clays and even while upland hunting. Now, because of some experiences over the last few years, it’s time for me to write about gun store etiquette.
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I’ve had the opportunity to spend time on both sides of the gun counter. So, most of what I’m pointing out is a direct result of my experiences, both good and bad. As I mentioned above, I think it’s important to teach etiquette since many people don’t know what they don’t know.
Always adhere to the Four Firearms Safety Rules:
1. Treat all firearms as if they’re loaded.
2. Never point your firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot, injure or destroy.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot your firearm.
4. Be sure of your target and what’s beyond your target.
When a sales associate brings a firearm out for you to see, he should always remove the magazine, confirm that it’s clear and lock the slide to the rear BEFORE handing it to you. Once it is in your hands, you should also confirm an empty chamber both visually and manually.
First, ask the clerk where a safe direction is for you to point the muzzle of the gun. Then, find out the store’s policy on pressing the trigger. Make sure to abide by whatever you are told.
Here are some questions to ask yourself while handing the firearm:
Once you narrow it down to a few choices, consider the following:
Finally, find out if there is a range for you to test-fire a few of your choices. If there isn’t, you may want to reach out to your friends and find out if anyone owns that particular gun. Or, find a range that has firearms you can rent and get some hands-on experience with your choices.
These are just a few ideas to help both you and the person behind the counter feel comfortable while obtaining information on a new firearm. Always treat everyone with respect and don’t be afraid to ask questions. If the person you are working with doesn’t have the answer, ask if someone may be able to help. Take the time to do your research and find the pistol that fits your hands and is the right size for why you want it.
Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and GTM Original. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore. View all posts by Michelle Cerino
Thanks for the comment Dave. There are actually some establishments that offer educational classes to their customers. However, that means the customer has to make the initiative to actually take the class.
Hello again Michelle,
There are not as many choices for gun stores in CT as there are in The Free States of America. Both male and female newbies will get the eye roll at the counter when a commissioned salesman (I have never encountered a female, maybe that’s why?) gets told “I just got my permit and want to buy a gun. What should I get?” My retirement dream is to get my NRA R.S.O. and Safety Instructor certs, FFL, and open my own firearms business. My focus would be on a personalized experience, offer real sales assistance and training on things like reloading (most places will sell you the components and equipment but never teach how to use it), proper holsters and carry, and full range of try before you buy guns and accessories. I see a real need for such an establishment.