Beginner’s Guide to Guns
Firearms education is crucial for beginners.  So we’ve come up with the lessons below filled with tons of videos, pictures, and corny jokes.
Table of Contents

Chapter 1
Introduction to Guns
The most important stuff…if you get anything out of this series…please read the 4 Firearm Safety Rules.
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How Guns WorkBY Eric Hung, Published Feb 11,February 11, 2016 18 Comments
How do guns work?!? We'll quickly cover how they work, components of a bullet, various actions, and loading mechanisms.
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4 Firearm Safety RulesBY Eric Hung, Published Feb 29,February 29, 2016 7 Comments
Learn the 4 firearms safety rules to keep your gun learning experience a safe one at home and at the range. We focus on instilling safety from the get-go.
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Types of Guns: Top 3 You Need to KnowBY Eric Hung, Published Feb 1,February 1, 2016 21 Comments
Quickly learn all about the three types of guns: pistols, rifles, and shotguns. Plus how they work, how to shoot them, and the best models for each.
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Basic Bullet Guide: Sizes, Calibers, & TypesBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 31,January 31, 2016 238 Comments
Quickly learn all about common bullet sizes & calibers with tons of pics. Plus find out the differences between bullet tips such as hollow point and FMJ.
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How to Talk to Your Kids About Gun SafetyBY Julie Golob, Published Feb 20,February 20, 2019 2 Comments
Got kids? Got guns? Mom, veteran, hunter, and professional competition shooter Julie Golob gives some life-saving tips about children's firearms education.

Chapter 2
Shooting Fundamentals
We’ll walk you through the fundamentals of stance, grip, trigger pull, and more so you have some idea of how to shoot a gun at the range.
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Shooting StanceBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 24,January 24, 2016 25 Comments
Quickly learn the pros/cons of the Isosceles, Weaver, and Chapman stances through tons of pictures and videos. Become a better shooter today.
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How to Grip a Pistol (Semi-Auto & Revolver)BY Eric Hung, Published Oct 10,October 10, 2020 18 Comments
Want to shoot better? You've got to have a proper pistol grip. We cover exactly what makes a good grip for both semi-auto and revolvers.
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Sight Picture & Eye DominanceBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 23,January 23, 2016 28 Comments
Quickly discover your eye dominance for shooting in less than 60 seconds and learn proper sight alignment, holds, and where to focus on your front sight.
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Trigger Pull & Follow ThroughBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 25January 25, 2016
Learn the most important aspects of the trigger pull and follow through from a USPSA champion. Important bullet points, diagrams, and video to help you out.

Chapter 3
How to Shoot a Gun
Chances are you’ll probably head to the shooting range first before deciding on a gun. Â We’ll start with what to expect and then how to shoot the most common types of firearms out there.
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Shooting Range
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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First Day at the Shooting RangeBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 26,January 26, 2016 45 Comments
First time to the shooting range and not sure what to expect? We'll cover rules, what to do, and indoor/outdoor ranges to make your trip safe and a little less intimidating.
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Essential Shooting Range GearBY Eric Hung, Published Feb 22,February 22, 2016 66 Comments
Find out all the essential range gear you need to have a successful trip...from the real essentials, to the "nice to have," and even elite gear.
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How to Shoot Different Guns
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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How to Shoot a HandgunBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 25,January 25, 2016 5 Comments
Quickly learn how to safely shoot a handgun by covering different trigger types, correct grip, sight alignment, and loading/unloading.
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How to Shoot a RevolverBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 8January 8, 2016
Quickly learn how single and double action revolvers work , how to shoot them, and how to unload to make them safe.
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How to Shoot a RifleBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 26January 26, 2016
Learn how to shoot the most common semi-automatic rifle, the AR-15, as well as a bolt action rifle. We’ll cover some grip, stance, general functions, and more.
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How to Shoot a ShotgunBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 9,January 9, 2016 4 Comments
Quickly learn how pump and semi-auto shotguns work, before diving into how to load, unload, and shoot them.
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How to Shoot Full AutoBY Todd Gimian, Published Dec 11,December 11, 2018 1 Comment
Getting the chance to shoot a full auto submachine or machinegun? We'll cover some tips and tricks so you stay safe, shoot straight, and have lots of fun.
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Shooting Better
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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How to Shoot a Handgun More AccuratelyBY Eric Hung, Published Mar 17,March 17, 2016 111 Comments
Shooting pistols accurately is hard! So, buff up on basics, easy exercises at home, range tips, and gear. Next time you hit the range you'll see all bullseyes.
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Long Range Shooting: Intro & FundamentalsBY Randy Bauman, Published Jan 1,January 1, 2020 2 Comments
Long range shooting can be for anyone. We go through the basics of shooting past 800 yards with a focus on the necessities in gear and technique.
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Chapter 4
Recommended Firearms
Now that you’ve shot some guns…we’ll walk you through some of our favorite beginner firearms. Â For more in-depth coverage, check out our Gun & Gear Reviews section.
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General
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Best Home Defense Gun: Rifle Vs. Pistol. Vs. ShotgunBY Eric Hung, Published Jan 25,January 25, 2016 103 Comments
Shotguns, pistols, and rifles. What's the best home defense gun for you? We go over the pros and cons of each complete with favorite models and ammo picks.
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Best Budget Guns for BeginnersBY Travis Pike, Published May 9,May 9, 2017 56 Comments
Picking your first gun can be a hassle. So, we're taking the guesswork out and providing you with some great guns for new shooters...that are affordable!
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Best Concealed Carry GunsBY Wyatt Sloan, Published Aug 9,August 9, 2018 295 Comments
Not sure what concealed carry handgun to get? Or even what caliber is best for you? We'll cover all our favorite guns for the most popular calibers.
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Recommendations by Type of Gun
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Best Handgun for Self DefenseBY Eric Hung, Updated Aug 6,August 6, 2017 369 Comments
Not sure what to get? Learn how to choose the best caliber (9mm), size, sights, & safety options for you. Plus hands-on with our best handgun picks.
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AR-15 Buyer's GuideBY Eric Hung, Updated Jan 25,January 25, 2017 576 Comments
Want to find the best AR-15 for you? We start with how they work and important specs. Then we cover the best brands/models for all budgets.
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Best Tactical Shotgun for Home DefenseBY Sean Curtis AND Travis Pike, Updated Jan 12,January 12, 2017 414 Comments
Quickly learn what makes a tactical shotgun, why it's so effective, ammo selection, pros/cons, and our best home defense shotgun picks.
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Best Sniper Rifle for BeginnersBY CS, Published Jan 26,January 26, 2016 59 Comments
Find out the best sniper/precision rifle for you at all price points. We'll cover important aspects such as caliber, action, and recommended models.
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Best .22 LR RifleBY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 30,September 30, 2017 229 Comments
The humble .22 LR is one of the most popular and versatile rounds out there. Here's our list of the best .22 LR rimfire rifles right now!
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Best Beginner RevolverBY Travis Pike, Published Feb 22,February 22, 2018 34 Comments
Think revolvers are too old school? We'll cover reasons why revolvers still rule in the modern world (plus our picks of the best models and brands.)
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Concealed Carry
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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7 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Carried ConcealedBY Trevor Dobrygoski, Published Oct 16,October 16, 2016 152 Comments
Getting your concealed carry permit is exciting. Don't make these mistakes, though. You could lose your right to own a gun, or worse...end up in jail.
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Best Concealed Carry GunsBY Wyatt Sloan, Published Aug 9,August 9, 2018 295 Comments
Not sure what concealed carry handgun to get? Or even what caliber is best for you? We'll cover all our favorite guns for the most popular calibers.
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Top 5 .380 Pistols for Concealed CarryBY Jacki Billings, Published Dec 4,December 4, 2016 415 Comments
Can a .380 pistol save your life? We'll cover what the round can do and our top picks for the best .380 ACP pistols.
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Single Stack 9mm's for Concealed CarryBY Trevor Dobrygoski, Published Jun 19,June 19, 2017 203 Comments
Want the best concealed carry gun? You'll want to start with a single stack sub-compact 9mm. We take a look at the pros/cons and why they are so popular.
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CCW Revolvers for Classic CarryBY Kat Ainsworth Stevens, Published May 18,May 18, 2017 89 Comments
Revolvers make for excellent CCW weapons...reliable, consistent, and easy to conceal. We've rounded up some of the best CCW revolvers on the market.
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Best Concealed Carry HolstersBY Eric Hung, Updated Jan 4,January 4, 2017 199 Comments
What's the best concealed carry holster? We cover what makes a great holster and choose our favs for IWB, OWB, Ankle, & Shoulder holsters.
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Women Specific Recommendations
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Best Handguns for WomenBY Jacki Billings, Updated Jan 15,January 15, 2017 148 Comments
The ladies of Pew Pew Tactical have compiled a list of the best handguns for fellow lady shooters. Spoiler alert, no pink guns!
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Best Rifles and Shotguns for WomenBY Megan Kriss, Published Mar 12,March 12, 2019 13 Comments
Looking for the best long guns for ladies? We cover our favorite rifles and shotguns that are lighter, have a shorter length of pull, and reduced recoil.
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Best Concealed Carry Gear For Women: Holsters, Bags, & ClothingBY Elizabeth Bienas, Published Sep 25,September 25, 2019 5 Comments
Looking to conceal carry as a woman? We cover some special considerations for finding the best holsters, bag options, and clothing.
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Best Firearm Resources for Women: Online & LocalBY Megan Kriss, Published Jan 14January 14, 2020
In need of some female-specific resources? We've handpicked the best blogs, programs, shooting leagues, and products for lady gun owners.
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Best Everyday Carry (EDC) Items List For WomenBY Alice Jones Webb, Published Sep 16,September 16, 2020 2 Comments
Looking for a woman-centric everday carry (EDC) list? We cover all the essentials to keep you ready for any situation.
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Best Female-Friendly Firearm BrandsBY Alice Jones Webb, Published Feb 24,February 24, 2021 2 Comments
Calling all ladies! We've rounded up the best brands dedicated to female firearm accessories. Even better, they're women-owned! Come see!
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Best Hunting Gear & Clothing for WomenBY Kat Ainsworth Stevens, Published Nov 26,November 26, 2019 1 Comment
Looking for comfortable and fitting clothes as a woman hunter? We go through all our tried-and-tested clothing, boots, packs, guns, and more.
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Best Pocket Knives For Women: Why & What to Look ForBY Alice Jones Webb, Published Sep 22,September 22, 2020 4 Comments
Not sure why you even need a pocket knife or what to look for? We cover it all plus our favorite picks of the best pocket knives for women.
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Chapter 5
Ammo, Tools, & Gear
All the stuff you’ll need to clean, shoot, and have a safe/fun time at the range and at home. Â Find out more specific info in our DIY Gunsmithing and Gun & Gear Reviews sections.
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Ammo
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Best Places to Buy Ammo OnlineBY Eric Hung, Updated Jan 4,January 4, 2018 141 Comments
So many online ammo sites! We've bought from them all and these are the best. Plus specific recommendations of the best ammo for your caliber and possible shipping restrictions.
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Caliber Specific RecommendationsBY , Published 1 second ago
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Essentials
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Shooting Range GearBY Eric Hung, Published Feb 22,February 22, 2016 66 Comments
Find out all the essential range gear you need to have a successful trip...from the real essentials, to the "nice to have," and even elite gear.
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Gunsmithing ToolsBY Eric Hung, Published Feb 21,February 21, 2016 6 Comments
Find out the most essential gunsmithing tools you'll need to keep your firearms running in great shape or to make easy modifications.
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Best Gun Cases for All BudgetsBY Eric Hung, Published Feb 20,February 20, 2016 59 Comments
Not sure what gun case to get? We've used all the popular hard, soft, and discreet cases out there for pistols and long guns.
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Best Shooting GlassesBY Eric Hung, Published May 22,May 22, 2018 81 Comments
We bought some of the most popular shooting glasses across all budgets. "See" which ones we liked best due to style, comfort, protection, views, and price.
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Best Shooting Ear Protection [Electronic & Passive]BY Eric Hung, Published Jan 15,January 15, 2018 175 Comments
We've got thousands of hours of ear protection experience and these are our fav passive and electronic picks...from in-ear to muffs.
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Best Pistol LightsBY Eric Hung, Published Mar 25,March 25, 2018 82 Comments
The most popular pistol lights tested with tons of rounds through them. Find out the best in terms of reliability, budget, lumens, beam pattern, and more.
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Safety
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Best Gun Safe for Pistols & RiflesBY Eric Hung, Published Jun 14,June 14, 2018 95 Comments
Need to keep your guns safe? We cover all the categories of gun safes for pistols and long guns with plenty of tested in-hand pictures.
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Best Bedside Safe for Quick AccessBY Eric Hung, Published Mar 1,March 1, 2016 89 Comments
Not sure what pistol safe to get for your bedside that's fast access? We cover essential things to consider and models of safes perfect for any budget.
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Best Home & Travel SafesBY Brian Belko, Published Apr 30,April 30, 2017 15 Comments
Every gun owner is responsible for the secure storage of their firearms. Here are some great gun safes that will keep you, your family, and your guns safe.
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How and Where to Bolt Down a SafeBY Ethan Mizer, Published Apr 16,April 16, 2019 5 Comments
Got a safe but not sure where to put it? We cover considerations in choosing a final location plus the best methods for bolting down your gun safe.
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Best Biometric Gun SafesBY Eric Hung AND Trevor Dobrygoski, Published May 8,May 8, 2018 19 Comments
A gun you can't get quickly doesn't help when a bad guy appears. Biometric safes help you to keep your firearm secure and your family protected!
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[Review] CCW Safe Concealed Carry Insurance
Is CCW Safe the best concealed carry insurance you can get? We dive into its coverage limits and compare it against other providers.
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Chapter 6
Shooting Better
Once you’ve got the basics down…we’ll help you shoot better groups at a faster pace.
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General
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Complete Dry-Fire Guide for Home TrainingBY Travis Pike, Published May 7,May 7, 2017 40 Comments
Dry-fire practice is one of the best ways to become a better shooter. Learn how to practice safely, effectively, and cheaply at home. Plus the best gadgets.
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Defensive Shooting Drills for the RangeBY Travis Pike, Published Jun 24,June 24, 2017 6 Comments
Want to shoot better? We've got the most effective drills for pistol, rifle, and shotgun. Plus, tips on how to run them, make them harder, and favorite gear.
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Essential Range Training ToolsBY Travis Pike, Published Jul 6,July 6, 2017 11 Comments
If you want to be a better shooter, you need better tools. Here are some of the best tools you can use to up your training.
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Shooting On The MoveBY Annette Evans, Published Jan 26,January 26, 2018 4 Comments
Whether you're competing in action shooting sports like 3Gun, or you just want to be prepared for every defensive situation, learning to shoot on the move is a vital skill. Here's some tips from someone who's trained for both.
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Overcoming Cross-Dominant ShootingBY Travis Pike, Published Feb 22,February 22, 2018 49 Comments
How do you diagnose cross-dominant shooting and how do you overcome it? Special emphasis on right-handed, left-eye dominance.
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Safe and Effective Dry Fire Training at HomeBY Travis Pike, Published May 7,May 7, 2017 40 Comments
Dry-fire practice is one of the best ways to become a better shooter. Learn how to practice safely, effectively, and cheaply at home. Plus the best gadgets.
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Cold Weather Shooting TipsBY Randy Bauman, Published Jan 31,January 31, 2019 10 Comments
Know how to keep yourself and your guns ready even in the dead of winter! Here's some of our top cold weather shooting tips.
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Pistol Shooting
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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How to Shoot a Pistol More AccuratelyBY Eric Hung, Published Mar 17,March 17, 2016 111 Comments
Shooting pistols accurately is hard! So, buff up on basics, easy exercises at home, range tips, and gear. Next time you hit the range you'll see all bullseyes.
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Best Laser Targets & Cartridges for Dry-FireBY Eric Hung, Published Oct 25,October 25, 2017 42 Comments
Looking for the best way to dry-fire train using your own gun? We cover the best laser cartridges and laser targets that we personally use to train.
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[Infographic] 8 Surefire Ways to Shoot AccuratelyBY Eric Hung, Published Feb 16,February 16, 2017 16 Comments
Not hitting the bullseye every time? Our quick guide will help you out with tips in stance, grip, front sight focus, trigger pull, and dry-firing practice.
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Weak-Handed ShootingBY Travis Pike, Published Dec 7,December 7, 2017 6 Comments
Being able to shoot with your non-dominant hand can save your life. Read on to learn how to shoot with your weak hand and why it's important.
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Rifle Shooting
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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How to Shoot with a BipodBY Travis Pike, Published Mar 15,March 15, 2018 11 Comments
Bipods are easy, right? Sure! But you still need to know how to use them correctly and know what kind to get. We will take a look at how best to use a bipod and our recommendations to get you started.
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Disabled Shooting
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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6 Helpful Tips for Disabled ShootersBY Fred Tyrell, Published Apr 18,April 18, 2017 22 Comments
Do you or a loved one suffer from a disability that makes it difficult to use firearms? Fortunately, there are techniques and accessories that can help.
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Choosing a Handgun for Disabled ShootersBY Travis Pike, Published May 19,May 19, 2017 17 Comments
If you or a loved one are disabled, finding adaptive guns and gear that work can be a struggle. That's why we've gathered the best guns and gear out there.
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Chapter 7
Concealed Carry
Looking to concealed carry? We have a dedicated Ultimate Guide for it. But here are our top articles.
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Gun Reviews
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Best Concealed Carry Guns (All Calibers)BY Wyatt Sloan, Published Aug 9,August 9, 2018 295 Comments
Not sure what concealed carry handgun to get? Or even what caliber is best for you? We'll cover all our favorite guns for the most popular calibers.
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Best Revolvers for Concealed CarryBY Kat Ainsworth Stevens, Published May 18,May 18, 2017 89 Comments
Revolvers make for excellent CCW weapons...reliable, consistent, and easy to conceal. We've rounded up some of the best CCW revolvers on the market.
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Top 5 Best .380 Pistols for Concealed CarryBY Jacki Billings, Published Dec 4,December 4, 2016 415 Comments
Can a .380 pistol save your life? We'll cover what the round can do and our top picks for the best .380 ACP pistols.
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Best Single Stack Sub-Compact 9mmsBY Trevor Dobrygoski, Published Jun 19,June 19, 2017 203 Comments
Want the best concealed carry gun? You'll want to start with a single stack sub-compact 9mm. We take a look at the pros/cons and why they are so popular.
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Concealed Carry Gear
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Best Concealed Carry HolstersBY Eric Hung, Updated Jan 4,January 4, 2017 199 Comments
What's the best concealed carry holster? We cover what makes a great holster and choose our favs for IWB, OWB, Ankle, & Shoulder holsters.
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Best Way to Conceal Carry for Women: Holsters, Purses, & MoreBY Jacki Billings, Published Feb 15,February 15, 2017 37 Comments
I’ve tried it all as a woman who concealed carries: purse, bra, corset, thigh, etc. So, let’s talk about it! See my tips on the best ways to CCW as a lady.
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Mindset
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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7 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Carried ConcealedBY Trevor Dobrygoski, Published Oct 16,October 16, 2016 152 Comments
Getting your concealed carry permit is exciting. Don't make these mistakes, though. You could lose your right to own a gun, or worse...end up in jail.
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Concealed Carry Insurance
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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USCCA Hands-On Review and Comparisons
Confused by all the "concealed carry insurance" out there? I cover all tiers of USCCA membership, coverage limits, and a secret bonus.
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Legalities
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Concealed Carry Laws by StateBY , Published 1 second ago
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Flying with FirearmsBY Kat Ainsworth Stevens, Published Dec 29,December 29, 2017 50 Comments
Don't just hope for the best. We cover the rules for packing, declaring, storing, and locking your firearm for flying...plus our favorite cases and locks.
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International Travel with FirearmsBY Megan Kriss, Published Mar 5,March 5, 2018 8 Comments
Flying internationally with a gun may seem like a daunting prospect, but it can be surprisingly simple if you know what you're doing. Let's talk about what you need to do if you're traveling outside the country with a firearm.
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Chapter 8
Competitive Shooting
Tired of shooting at static targets at the range? Â How about some running and gunning with some fast-paced shooting competitions? Â We’ve got you covered from an overview of different types of competitions to the essential gear you’ll need to rank highly.
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Overview
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Competitive Shooting RoundupBY Annette Evans, Updated Jan 30,January 30, 2023 9 Comments
Getting started in competition shooting can be a daunting prospect. We've laid out the basics of each competition to make getting started a little easier.
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IDPA CompetitionBY Annette Evans, Updated Jan 30,January 30, 2023 9 Comments
Getting started in competition shooting can be a daunting prospect. We've laid out the basics of each competition to make getting started a little easier.
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Service Rifle CompetitionsBY Brandon Harville, Published Jun 13June 13, 2017
Service rifle competitions are great for veterans, history buffs, and other firearms enthusiasts to shoot tried-and-true guns in a competition setting.
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Silhouette Shooting FAQBY Annette Evans, Published Jul 14,July 14, 2017 2 Comments
Silhouette shooting is a fairly old shooting sport that anyone interested in competition should know about. Here's your guide to getting started.
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Cowboy Action ShootingBY Annette Evans, Published Jul 17,July 17, 2017 5 Comments
Cowboy Action Shooting is one of the most exciting and fastest growing shooting sports in the world. Here's everything you need to know to get started.
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3-Gun Nation FAQBY Annette Evans, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2017 2 Comments
3-Gun Nation is one of the largest and most popular governing bodies for 3Gun matches. Here are the rules to get you started.
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Olympics Shooting Events: What Are They Anyway?BY Megan Kriss, Published Sep 16,September 16, 2019 2 Comments
It's that time again. Find out all about the shooting events in the Olympics, from pistol to rifle and shotgun based events.
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NRL22 (National Rifle League) Competition BasicsBY Megan Kriss, Published Jan 14,January 14, 2020 3 Comments
Want to get into precision shooting but with .22LR? We go over National Rifle League's NRL22 small-bore competition with procedures and courses of fire.
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Beginner’s Guide to Steel Challenge CompetitionBY Megan Kriss, Published Jun 26,June 26, 2020 1 Comment
Looking for a simple and straightforward shooting competition that won't break the bank? We go over everything about Steel Challenge (SCSA).
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Guns & Gear for Competitive Shooting
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Everything You Need for 3-GunBY Annette Evans, Published Jun 18,June 18, 2017 1 Comment
Its hard to choose 3-gun gear. We've laid out exactly what you need to compete, including all the best gear to get your first match off to a great start.
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Best 3-Gun AR-15sBY Annette Evans, Published Jul 23,July 23, 2017 18 Comments
Building your own AR-15 for 3-Gun can be daunting. Here's our favorite out-of-the-box best AR-15's for 3-Gun competition across all price points.
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Pistol Caliber Carbines for CompetitionBY Annette Evans, Published Jun 4,June 4, 2017 6 Comments
Pistol-caliber carbines are all the rage right now, and competitions that let you show them off are cropping up all over. Here's how to get started.
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Best 3-Gun ShotgunsBY Brandon Harville, Published May 21,May 21, 2017 13 Comments
If you're looking to get into competitive shooting, you'll need a good 3-gun shotgun. We've rounded up some of the very best available to help you get started.
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Best Rifle CompensatorsBY Travis Pike, Published May 27,May 27, 2017 9 Comments
Looking for the best compensator to reign in muzzle flip? We cover options for all budgets and the most popular 3-Gun competition calibers.
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Best 3-Gun Heavy Metal GunsBY Brandon Harville, Published Jul 26,July 26, 2017 5 Comments
Heavy Metal Competition requires some big guns...here are some of the best of the best to get you on the road to winning at your next competition.
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Other
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Picking a Division for USPSABY Annette Evans, Published May 2,May 2, 2017 13 Comments
Want to start pistol competitions with USPSA? There's a lot of rules governing divisions and we're here to sort it out. Plus our favorite pistols for each!
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Dry Fire For CompetitorsBY Annette Evans, Published Sep 28September 28, 2017
Dry fire practice is one of the most important things a competitor can do to improve. Here's how to get the most out of your practice and get better faster.
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Chapter 9
Reloading
We cover everything about reloading your own ammunition in our Ammo & Reloading section, but these quick guides will give you a glimpse into what it takes.
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Beginner's Guide to Reloading AmmoBY Eric Hung, Updated Jan 21,January 21, 2017 42 Comments
Want to save money and shoot more accurately? Reloading your own ammo is the key! We go over all the steps of reloading plus sample setups for all budgets.
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Ammo 101: The 4 Parts of a CartridgeBY Jonathan Kilburn, Published Oct 6,October 6, 2020 4 Comments
Curious about how ammo works? Toying with the idea of reloading? We review the four basic but essential components of the modern cartridge.
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Best Reloading PressesBY Jonathan Kilburn, Updated Jan 17,January 17, 2017 54 Comments
There are so many reloading presses. Quickly find out which is the best reloading press for your specific shooting volume, caliber, and budget needs.
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Best Places to Buy Reloading ComponentsBY Eric Hung, Published Dec 30,December 30, 2016 34 Comments
There's so many places to buy reloading supplies online. Find out where we and other high-output reloaders get our powder, primers, cases, and bullets.

Chapter 10
Hunting
Everything to get started hunting…from where to hunt to the best hunting firearms and how to build up the perfect hunting load.
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Hunting Firearms
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Best Beginner Hunting RiflesBY , Published 1 second ago
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Best New Hunting Rifles of 2018BY Travis Pike, Published May 16,May 16, 2017 1 Comment
We take a look at some of our favorite hunting rifles to get you ready for the hunting season. Come see which models we recommend.
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Best Beginner Shotgun for Bird HuntingBY Brandon Harville, Published May 14,May 14, 2017 6 Comments
If you want to get into bird hunting, you'll need a good shotgun. We've rounded up some of the best of the best to get you started off on the right foot.
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Big Game RiflesBY Brandon Harville, Published Jun 9,June 9, 2017 17 Comments
Big game hunts require big guns. We've looked at some of the best big-bore rifles to make your next dangerous game hunt a success.
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Hunting Ammo
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Hunting Ammo Buying GuideBY Travis Pike, Published May 25,May 25, 2017 3 Comments
Choosing the perfect hunting round is a subject of much debate. Our hunting ammo guide will help you choose the ideal round for your next hunt.
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Developing a Game LoadBY Brandon Harville, Published Jun 25June 25, 2017
Developing your own specialty load for your rifle is one of the most fun - and rewarding - things you can do as a shooter. Here's how to get started.
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Hunting .38 & .357 AmmoBY , Published 1 second ago
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Where to Hunt
BY Jacki Billings, Published Sep 23,September 23, 2023 3 CommentsThe Biden Administration announces new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, appeals court blocks CA ban on gun ads, and federal judge overturns NM CCW ban.
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Hunting Boar in CaliforniaBY Kareem Shaya, Published Mar 28,March 28, 2016 12 Comments
Everything you need to know to hunt wild boar in California. From planning to booking to hunting to cooking.
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