[Charmnr]

Hello all,

I'm strongly contemplating purchasing my first firearm but I'm not sure what type to buy. (Keep in mind that I am only 15 and have neither a FID card nor a pistol license however my father does have an FID card) All other things aside besides age, which do you think would be a better first weapon? Should I purchase a pistol, (perhaps a glock 45acp or maybe a 9mm because of the cheap ammo) or should i purchase a rifle (maybe sr-22?)??? Also, why do you think I should start with that and can you name a specific firearm you think would be good to start with?

Sorry for all the questions but thanks for the help!

P.S. I'm rather knew to all this so try to keep the technical talk to a minimum because I have not really learned that much yet!

THANK YOU!

[FirstSergeant]

IMOHO a rifle is easier to learn on, most times more usefull as well. Less any loopholes, you have to be 21 to own a hand gun. Yes, it could be your father's and you shoot it. I'd look at a good .22 and a nice Air gun for the pistol to learn the basics of breating, trigger control, sight picture and safe handling.
Please keep in mind, I'm not saying I'm right. You will most likely get about a half dozen different opinions, none really right or wrong.

[CA357]

My suggestion would be for a .22 rifle. It's cheap to shoot and so, it makes it very affordable to practice. If you feel that you really want a pistol, make it a .22 as well. However, my suggestion is to start off with a rifle.

Check out the Rimfire Forum here. You'll learn a lot about them.

[c3shooter]

I think you have at least 3 years to research the NJ State law.

You must be at least 18 to buy a rifle or shotgun. Check to be sure the SR22 complies with NJ law.

You must be 21 to purchase a handgun. I generally reccomend a .22 pistol as a first handgun.

[Sniper03]

charmnr

I would highly suggest a good 22 rifle. Some of the reasons are that you can learn basic fundamental including safe weapon handling, breathing, trigger pull, sight alignment and sight picture. Since the ammunition is cheaper than most all others. That gives you the opportunity to practice your new learned skills. I mean a Block of 500 each 22 Cartridges from Wal-Mart is not expensive. And you need practice to become proficient and skilled. Also good long gun training gives you skills for a lot of weapons. Obviously the 22 Rifle, Shotgun, Bolt Action Hunting Rifle, AR-15 Rifles and many more. I just think for your first weapon this is the way to fly.
Only caution is but a quality 22 rifle that will shoot accurately or you may become discouraged! Like a little bolt action Marlin, Savage or similar.
Or a Ruger 10-22 or other brands in the semi auto. Learn to shoot iron sights first. And then if you choose to put a scope on it go for it! Good Luck!

03

[opaww]

A good shot gun would be great also

[LUBrowningBoy]

I am 19 and mostly own 12ga. shotguns except for a .22 and a .270 rifle

most of my friends started off with .22's My first 4 guns were various 12ga. shotguns. you can use them for a variety of applications like huting deer, squirrels, birds etc, target shoot using slugs or birdshot, the northeast has some of the nicest sporting clays competition in the US

[therewolf]

Another vote for rifle.

Either what your dad thinks is best for hunting,(do you intend to hunt?)

or a 22LR you really like, be it lever, semi, or bolt action.

[orangello]

.22 bolt-action rifle for inexpensive plinking & some hunting use for small game (tree rats).

[General_lee]

Remember, 18 years old to buy a long gun ( rifle or shotgun), 21 to buy a pistol.
If you're new to guns, the best way to start out is with a bolt action .22 rifle.