[c3shooter]

Bel- if they do, you need another gun shop.

Some shops are a PITA- had one correcting how I pronounced a cartridge (I happen to know the gent that INVENTED the cartridge )

Obviously, do not pick a day/time that the shop is up to it's armpits in customers (day before deer season, etc)

Would also suggest that you find a shop with a range, and offers the NRA classes. DO be sure to have a working BS detector with you- I have encountered shops where the staff did not know as much as they think they do.

Please goggle Illinois State Rifle Association, and talk with them. They are the State assoc of the NRA- they can put you in touch with some good folks.

And do not be afraid to ask questions- I have been doing this a long time, and I am still learning.

[winds-of-change]

Originally Posted by BelRockRebel

I just picked up the 103rd edition of the Shooter's Bible! Would it make me a nerd if I brought it to a gun shop and took notes while they answered my questions?

Absolutely not. I always write down stuff at the gun store. I can't remember everything so I write it down. I have found the people at The Bullet Stop to be very helpful and patient with me.

[tiberius10721]

I bring my I pad into our local store to compare prices .

[dbrownpilot]

Originally Posted by BelRockRebel

I am reading all the mags my Dad sent with me, but can anyone recommend a book or a website that can give me some good basic knowledge on firearms and ballistics? Something like "guns for dummies" would like to understand the cal. vs. mm vs. .###. Really bugs me that I dont know this stuff. Like why is it a .45acp if it isnt just for a colt? I am sure these questions are silly to you all, but I am serious about leatning all I can.

I'm a newbie, but I can tell you the difference between a 45ACP and 45 Long Colt. The ammo for the long colt is about twice as expensive.

[ninjatoth]

If you go to wikipedia and type "list of handgun cartridges"or "list of rifle cartridges" you will get a huge list of the history of dozens of rounds of ammunition,muzzle velocity,bullet weight and foot lbs energy of any round of ammunition.I also like this site for alot of other useful information Beartooth Bullets > Ballisticians Corner

[philobeddoe]

Originally Posted by BelRockRebel

I just picked up the 103rd edition of the Shooter's Bible! Would it make me a nerd if I brought it to a gun shop and took notes while they answered my questions?

The last place you'll learn anything about firearms is at a gun shop.

[gwk4667]

Originally Posted by philobeddoe

The last place you'll learn anything about firearms is at a gun shop.

If that is your experience then find another gun shop!!!!!