In light of recent global events, more people than ever are considering arming themselves for self-defense. From 2011 to 2013, the CDC reports that 3,380 Americans died from terrorists attacks on U.S. soil. That number is obviously higher today.

The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has the numbers to prove it…

On Friday, November 27, 2015, NICS processed nearly 200,000 background checks—the highest number on record for a single day. This does not tell us how many previous or new firearms owners purchased guns, but it is a sign that more guns are in the hands of Americans—some of them have to be first. Firearm retailers and dealers are also seeing an increase in firearms sales as well as a rush in ammo purchases.

For those who are considering their first firearm, the Shooter’s Log has plenty of articles geared to help you make the first move—choosing to become a gun owner. From picking the right gun to training, safety, gear, shooting for the first time and even the basics in concealed carry, there are plenty of articles to guide you through the process.

This new series titled “Guns for Beginners,” will answer all of your questions and then some as a new shooter and for those considering becoming a gun owner for the first time.

We’ll start with how to choose the right firearm for you:

First-Time Gun Buyer Questions

There are so many different types of firearms. How do you narrow it down?

The first step: This article asks the initial questions you should consider before purchasing a firearm. It will help narrow your search between pistols, revolvers, rifles, and shotguns, as well as addressing budget concerns and storage.

On the Fence About Buying Your First Gun?

This article goes into more detail about the types of firearms available, what they are best used for, safety and storage concerns. After reading these first two basic articles, you should be well on you way to making an informed decision.

I Want a Gun – Where Do I Start

So, you have it narrowed down to which type of firearm you want to buy. The next step is deciding caliber. This article is a great introduction to the different self-defense calibers in handguns.

Choosing a Handgun Caliber

After the basics of handgun calibers, learn more about the ones that sound appealing to you. This article discusses finding the most comfortable and affordable gun in the caliber that suits you best.

Some calibers are better than others for self-defense. Learn the difference to ensure you are making the right choice for your needs and skill set.

Handguns for First Time Gun Buyers

You now should have a basic understanding of the types of firearms and calibers available. That’s all well and great. However, even after narrowing that down, there is a wide variety—we’re talking hundreds if not thousands—of choices in certain calibers. This article discusses some tried and true firearms that have proven themselves reliable for years.

Gun Store Etiquette

Just like the Golden Rules of safe handling for firearm, there are a few unspoken “golden rules” when shopping for a gun in a gun store. Take this advice from real gun store clerks, workers and owners before heading out to your local gun shop to try out the guns that interest you. The ultimate goal for you and the shop is safety and a happy customer!

How to Shop for a Gun

Written by a woman for women, this article helps you narrow down the field before setting out for the gun store or Cheaper Than Dirt! To speed up the process, make it less intimidating and confusing, this article helps you decide where to concentrate your efforts—be it a handgun, shotgun, or rifle.

Buying a Gun: The Process

This article tells you what to expect after finding the gun you want to buy when you are purchasing from a Federal Firearms License dealer (FFL). Further, some states require an application, waiting period and even a license to purchase. Review the laws in your state in this article.

The Best Gun for a New Shooter: Semiautomatics vs. Revolvers

Many who have never fired a gun or only shot grandpa’s 12-gauge shotgun when they were younger are drawn to the revolver—especially women. The revolver is classic, ultra-reliable and easy to use. However, there are drawbacks to many of the smaller, lightweight revolvers. Before deciding a firearm based on aesthetics or something you think might be ‘easier,’ read the pros and cons of both a semiautomatic handgun and revolver in this post.

The Best of the Best: AR-15 for Beginners

Don’t rule out the AR-15 if you are a beginner.

Most of the articles on this list are geared toward handgun ownership, however there is one gun that is more popular than most—the semiautomatic AR-15 rifle. This article highlights 10 of the best AR-15 articles written for the beginner to the AR platform, from functionality and maintenance to shooting it well.

New Year, New Gun: Handgun Owner Basics

Now that you have your gun, you will need to take care of it, clean it and shoot it. This article tells you what to do once you have taken your new gun home.

Come back to the Shooter’s Log every week to read more articles for the beginner shooter. Next week, we will talk about visiting the gun range and shooting your new gun for the first time. We will discuss your first time at the shooting range—including what to expect and what gear you’ll need to take with you.

Are you a new shooter? What questions do you have about picking out, cleaning, storing, and shooting a gun? Leave them in the comment section.

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