Choosing the Right Firearm for Your Needs

Start with your real purpose

Think about the main reason you are shopping: range practice, hunting, collecting or another lawful purpose. A firearm that is excellent for one job may feel inconvenient or unsuitable for another. If you have several goals, rank them. That keeps a “do everything” search from turning into a pile of features you may never use.

Compare the three basic types

Handguns are compact and come in many sizes, but small models can be harder for some people to control comfortably. Rifles are shouldered firearms that vary widely by cartridge, weight and intended use. Shotguns fire shotshells or other compatible ammunition and are common for clays and some field uses. Each category has different fit, training and storage considerations.

Start with the guides for range handguns, range rifles and shotguns for clays. If your focus is carry or home use, those guides are available too: concealed-carry handguns, handguns for home use, rifles for home use and shotguns for home use.

Make fit, training and storage part of the budget

A good decision includes more than the purchase price. Consider a safe storage solution, ammunition, eye and ear protection, training and ongoing practice. Handle unloaded examples safely where possible and check controls, grip, stock fit, weight and recoil. If you are new, a qualified instructor can help you build safe habits before you shop.

Choose ammunition and understand the process

The firearm and ammunition must match exactly. Read the owner’s manual and our ammunition guide before making assumptions. If buying online, learn how the FFL process works; for an Arizona background-check overview, read what happens during the check.

When you are ready, browse handguns, rifles and shotguns. Send me a model or product link if you want help making sure we are comparing the same thing.