Quick Tip: Gun Store Do's & Don'ts

If you're new to firearms and the shooting sports, and you're ready to buy your first gun, a gun store may seem like an unusual and intimidating place. Relax - it doesn't have to be! Brownells Gun Techs Steve and Caleb give us some tips on how to behave on that important first trip to the gun store. First thing: know the basics of firearm safety as explained in our earlier video on Gun Etiquette & Safe Gun Handling. Tell the salesperson what you want the gun for and how you plan to use it. Help them find the gun that's right for you. If you've read some reviews, watched some videos, and are interested in a particular model - good. But also check out similar guns. The store might have one that's a better fit for you. Caution to you experienced shooters who might be in the store: Don't interfere and argue with the store staff! Sure, we know your Glock® is perfection, but the clerk may have a specific reason for recommending, say, a SIG or an M&P. We're all experts on what WE like, but not necessarily what's good for somebody else. Finally, if you're bringing a gun in for repairs, should you be offended if the store staff checks more than to be sure it's unloaded? The guys have advice on that, too.
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[@jamesthomas4577]

For gun shop employees. Don't be a gun snob and treat "newbies" like idiots. Educate them. Like a true gunsmith does. Never met a gunsmith that wasn't patient and willing to teach.

[@exfed1811]

Amen. Too often gun shop employees seem uninterested in making money.

[@ocavant]

@G If you were doing that, then his action was justified. Maybe you are kidding, it's hard to tell, but if for some reason you're not, then you are not ready for a firearm.

[@Daniel-dv2hl]

@G My brother, please never do that with your Glock. When you see that spinny thing in the movies, its with double action revolvers. In all due respect please take a safety course to save yourself from an accidental discharge and hurt yourself but even worse someone else.

[@adamclark9253]

Iv met some,, the local gunshop closest to me has rude employees,, I now drive farther because I have no use for asses. The first time I went in I watched them be unbelievably rude to a customer and thought it was uncalled for,, then the last time they were rude to me... Not all of them are great,, the shop I go to now is amazing.

[@amphibious3381]

I just hate the employees that push their political ideologies on you and why so-and-so should have been president. I just need a weapon to defend my family, that’s it

[@PeachTreesHOA]

Gun store employees are great at turning people to the internet to buy their firearms

[@SylentONE]

I swear, that is the TRUTH

[@jambajoby32]

💯

[@john-paulsilke893]

Sometimes that’s very true.

[@ColeJBradford]

This is ture

[@SylentONE]

Update: A family friend turned me on to a local gun shop here in Fort Lauderdale. The best customer service and prices ever. They have earned my business for life!

[@walapopgonzala9301]

A gun store near me has a big jar full of various ammunition with the label saying "its not loaded". There's definitely a reason for all the safety checks

[@woohoo2you966]

Customer: I really like to look at 15 round+ double stack 9mm handguns, preferably under $500. Gun salesman: Here is a $2,000 45 ACP 1911 with a 7-round magazine.

[@Omnipotent_Vsemogushchiy]

Idk where you are but the store I work at try to tailor the gun to you. If you don't have something particular in mind then we have you inform us on what you're looking to get out of your firearm and what your price range is. A $259.99 sale can turn into repeat business, and more money. If we always push high dollar guns we'll never make a sale. The easiest way to get someone to buy a gun is to show them a gun they like and can afford.

[@woohoo2you966]

@@Omnipotent_Vsemogushchiy we might have greater (lawful) gun ownership if more gun salespeople were like you. I cannot think of a gun store anywhere near me in the Raleigh NC area who would not ridicule a customer out of their store for even entertaining the idea of buying a $259 firearm.

[@bernardomontell873]

LOL Exactly what you asked for.

[@theeasternfront6436]

How about this fine 38 snubby?

[@michaelkennedy996]

😂😂😂

[@theresakelly1915]

I just bought a 9mm. The gun store owner was awesome. He spent 30 minutes with me educating me on my gun and other guns. I start using their gun range this week after my safety class. I’m real excited!

[@curttuundra]

You're doing it right. Would be interested hearing from you after the range lesson.

[@BCM1959]

They do treat women better. Usually.

[@Jojo_Flake]

@@BCM1959 they treat everyone like an idiot I bet 😂

[@BCM1959]

@@Jojo_Flake I would lose that bet so nope.

[@cowboyup4603]

I was doing a private sell of my shotgun in a gun store and the first thing the “clerk” did was drop it right on the barrel. They had to replace it, so NO not all employees are professionals no matter how cool they try to act.

[@P46345]

A buddy of mine went into a gun shop and saw a really nice and very expensive Colt Single Action Army Revolver in the case and asked the clerk if he could take a look at it, as the clerk was pulling the gun out of the display case he dropped it on the concrete floor, my buddy told him he was no longer interested and walked away.

[@cecilialugo6188]

Is it wise to buy a display gun

[@dewrus2153]

One thing I'd recommend to any newbies is when you go into a gun shop, in addition to telling the salesperson what you're looking for, don't be afraid or embarrassed to tell them straight up that you are inexperienced. That might influence the amount of time they spend with you to explain gun store safety protocol, and they'll likely take more time to address fundamental issues that might help you choose a weapon. That will change it from a buying experience to a learning AND buying experience for you. Most gun store staff are more than happy to work with customers new to firearms...and they'd much rather you be honest and tell them you're new to guns than to have you come in and pretend you know more than you do.

[@aleccross3535]

10/10 for the inclusion of the gunstore glock ninja. Always lurking around trying to catch an easy prey

[@brownells]

Thanks for the support! *does all sorts of ninja moves while making the whoosh sounds and hands move rapidly.

[@ramcharger9449]

It’s always funny when you run into a glock ninja and tell them that you own both sigs and glocks.

[@gratefulMOMent]

What’s so funny is, is that it’s always Glock. Or so it seems?

[@shevetlevi2821]

"Just let it go."

[@johnnyutah9874]

I love Glock. I love sig. I love Smith & Wesson. I love Palmetto state armory and rock island. I love colt and kimber. There probably isn’t a gun manufacturer that I would say I’d never own given the chance.

[@fordfan3179]

When my son wanted to go hunting I said "fine, we'll do a gun safety class first!" The very first question we were asked in the gun class was "What is the number one firearm involved in more accidental discharges and shooting than any other?" Hands went up and every answer you can imagine. "automatics" or "shotguns" or "Antiques" the instructor said "no", over and over . "THE number one firearm involved in more accidental discharges and shootings is.......An empty gun!" Think about that for a moment.

[@fordfan3179]

I'm a US Army Infantry veteran. I grew up with guns my whole life. I'm personally not a hunter. I know how to do it and I think it's a skill people should know. I've been through numerous gun safety classes and endorse them fully. so much so I occasionally take another course just to bone up on what I know or may have forgotten. Nothing would be more terrible than hurting sombody I like or love accidentally with a firearm. I've actually seen people hurt other people accidentally and that's a weight I'm just not willing to bare. I won't live in a bubble or tell other people they shouldn't do this or that especially with their second amendment. I will tell you how I've survived without an accident for nearly 50 years. I just practice good safety procedures, over and over!

[@fordfan3179]

@G surly, that's what I meant

[@fordfan3179]

@G okayyyyyyy

[@DeathByLego]

Damn bro. That’s like. So true.

[@doublebrewski1855]

I have worked at a small gun shop for almost 20 years. I have handled almost every variety of firearm (not every make and model of course) from cutting edge modern to actual Civil War antiques. The most dangerous people who handle firearms have been, in my experience, either brand new noobs or the those often considered "experts." The noobs who know little usually treat the firearm the same way they have seen in movies: spinning cylinders and slapping them closed, twirling semi-autos around on their fingers, etc. But the experts, guys and gals who've been around firearms their entire lives, often have the worst accidents simply because they have become complacent. They forget to treat it as though it is always loaded. I am certainly no expert, but I myself have had an accidental discharge. I racked my 12 gauge until all of the shells hit the floor, then racked it 5 or 6 more times. Assuming it was clear, I pointed it in a safe direction and dry-fired to take the tension off of the trigger spring. Unbeknownst to me, the last shell was a reload, and somehow the rim had become slightly dented. . . Barely enough to notice, but just enough for the extractor to slide over it and not remove it. Had the shell been rotated even one millimeter either direction it likely would have ejected safely while I racked the slide repeatedly. Alas, I blew a hole in the wall, and scared off my friends I was showing my new shotgun to. I felt like the biggest idiot who ever held a firearm. I know better. . . And I still messed up. Always check, then double-check, then check it again. Just because you think it is empty, does not mean that it is. So treat it like it is always loaded.

[@chazdoomy1512]

You should do a gun shop safety video. Where to point the gun. How to look at the sights. Muzzle control ect.

[@beck-tn9gl]

I worked in Gunshops for 3 years. I lost count of how many times someone pointed a gun either at me or someone else. I usually tried to give them a reminder not to do that, but some would get an attitude ani just get them to leave. I had a Customer dry fire a handgun while it was pointed at me. That was a little unsettling. There's no shortage of idiots. Good video as always. Thanks!

[@jarink1]

I *always* ask permission from the store employee before dry firing a gun I'm looking at. Make sure to point it in a safe direction, too!

[@dekrev]

I love it when my local shop hands me a firearm barell end first - it’s happened a few times here. I thought me stepping aside briskly was indication enough but no…

[@nicholasbrown5511]

Im sorry you had to deal with that. You rock!

[@johnnybravoBoyah]

Idiots, dry firing at ya probably stoners or sat in college for 5 yrs

[@zachlong100]

Have the same experience at our gun shop. Had a woman point a pistol right at me and “click”. She got a real education after that.

[@Jay-ln1co]

No shop stories, but will always remember from the army a fellow medic checking the gun rack near the entrance where you're suppose to leave your unloaded rifle when entering. He noticed one of the rifles was not on safe. Was gonna put it on safe, but decided to investigate further. There was a live round in the chamber and a full magazine.

[@bigboy6691]

Brub 😂 even im a newbie and i know not to point the barrel at anything that i dont want to destroy always check the chamber and to treat every gun like it would be loded

[@cutwormsmith]

I used to frequent a shop in Greensboro about 30 years ago. An employee named Clark, (quick witted young man)was at the counter. A guy came in looking for a holster for a Glock. The gun was closed and Clark asked if it clear. The guy turned the gun at a weird angle (pointing at his crotch!)and cleared it.(it was loaded). Clark looked at us leaning on the counter and said; y'all know what you just witnessed? The first Glock de cocker......

[@aulii11]

@cutwormsmith - sorry, can't help but laugh, as cringeworthy as this story is!

[@foxsquirrel3038]

Hahaha Clark is now my new hero!

[@jessiehughes9432]

🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤣🤣

[@joelerk6298]

Great story

[@charlesmiller6826]

Checking a firearm when passing it between folks is a courtesy, lets me know the person i am dealing with understands the safety rules.

[@fordfan3179]

Even after I watch a guy check a gun, after he hands it to me, I still give it a once over in case he missed "that one thing"!

[@Taco4You2]

Yup. Accidents happen even to experienced folk. Get too comfortable and you let you guard down, thats when mistakes are made.

[@davis4555]

I took a little .25acp Walther vest-gun to a local gunsmith recently. It is an original Model 2 (over one hundred years old) and an heirloom from my wife's deceased grandfather who brought it back from Europe after fighting in WWII. All it needed was a bushing lathed to cover the recoil spring so you couldn't see it through the ejection port. I told all this to the gunsmith, who agreed that it was in fine operating shape. He then asked if I was willing to sell it to him to sell for parts since "collectors can't find these original pieces." Snatched it back from him and haven't been back for anything else. Gun aside, it was pretty tactless.

[@panamajack44.]

Wow...um...yeah. How completely thoughtless. What made him think you weren't a collector? When is a family heirloom not "more" valuable than a simple collector piece?!?! Your reaction was 100% legit. I would have a hard time letting that gun out of my sight after that. Sheesh

[@TheHellSpawn000]

Im in canada, It was when i had gotten my license and went to the gun store to actually pick up my first firearm that I had purchased, my dream gun. AMT Hardballer Longslide and they had my second dream gun there, a Benelli M4 Super 90 so i decided to purchase that. While i was doing the paperwork a guy came in with a gun and handed it to the clerk, the clerk told him to keep the muzzle away from people and hand the gun to him muzzle down and the next thing i heard was my ears ringing, looked around and the clerk had jumped the counter and pulled the gun from the guys hands. He didn't clear it before coming in and when he was handing it to the clerk it went off in my direction, bullet hit the floor just in front of my right foot, ricocheted upwards, passed through the counter and then went into the stock of a 3000$ berretta 686 over-under shotgun.

[@noahcount7132]

Good advice, guys, but it's also important to remember that not everyone behind the gun counter is an expert. Unfortunately there are far too many self-proclaimed 'experts' who are anything but, and there are also income-driven sales people (everywhere, not just in gun shops) who try their best to sell you high-dollar merchandise, regardless whether it's a good fit for you or for your budget.

[@marksd5650]

First gun store I ever went to (newly licensed last October at 63 years old), I walked out because even though he checked the gun, and I checked the gun, he said he felt uncomfortable with me holding the gun and looking down the sights. He wasn’t interested in me, or selling me a gun. I was with my wife. So we left and drove ten miles down the road to another shop where we were welcomed, shown around, and bought two carry guns. Bought 2 Sig P365s and 1000 rounds of ammunition.

[@PNW_Sportbike_Life]

Yes! Don’t give assholes a dime

[@patrickc1508]

Not trying to be that guy, but you said that this was the first gun store that you had ever been to at 63. Did you keep your finger off the trigger? Did you point it in a safe direction? Verified unloaded or not, I wouldn’t feel comfortable with someone waving a gun around, flagging people, with their dick beaters on the trigger. NOBODY should be comfortable with that. If you were doing your part and pointing it at the floor a few feet in front of your feet or at the corner of where the wall meets the ceiling, with your finger off the trigger, he was out of line. I’m guessing that you might have did what all new people do when handed a gun. You probably picked it up and put your finger on the trigger. I’ve seen it happen way too often in the stores. I think that’s why more and more shops are going with trigger locks on everything. Places like Cabelas, bass bro, and majore sporting goods stores have been doing it for a long time, probably because they get a lot of new gun owners in their stores. New gun owners usually go to the extremes. They either have very poor muzzle and trigger discipline, or they are OCD about it.

[@jackmemphis777]

@@patrickc1508 lol my thoughts exactly. Probably put his finger right on the trigger and/or was pointing the gun in an unsafe direction. When I get a new gun I usually show it to my friends and family and let them hold it. Have to remind some of them to take their finger off the trigger

[@m0nkEz]

@@patrickc1508 my thoughts, too. Still, anyone who works at gun stores should expect customers like that and be ready to help them. Not just send them away. It's bad to sell a gun to someone who isn't ready for it, but I would argue it isn't much better to send them off to find someone who will.

[@tamarinds]

I am your wife.

[@gratefulMOMent]

I’m a military brat. My dad used to take me to gun stores for as long as I can remember. It is another world for sure. He would drive for a very long time to his “buddies” shops. All of them were wonderful people. I never knew a snotty gun shop until I was on my own. So I didn’t realize the importance of connection & trust until then. Thanks for the tips. I feel uncomfortable going in any shop without my Dad now. Haven’t found my people yet.

[@danefuentes3877]

Gun shops are like barber shops. You just gotta find the one that works for you. Most won't. And that is ok.

[@sawhill729]

Gun shop horror stories...... I was in the shop one day when a lady brought her recently deceased husbands M-1 in. She said she didn't know if it was loaded or not. The Chief of Police was standing there, and said, let me look at it. He pulled the trigger and sent a round into the apartment above. No injuries thankfully. Then his radio went off with a report of shots fired at the gun shop. He answer's back, I'm on it.

[@josephmueller1545]

Who would voluntarily live above a gun store?

[@haroldbalzac6336]

​@@josephmueller1545A gun store owner?

[@mikeb7826]

The first time I went into an unfamiliar gun shop in Alicante with my Buck Mark, I was so nervous I just handed her my opened backpack, told her what I wanted and let her take the gun out. The mag was out and it was racked back with a flag down the barrel! I was more nervous about doing something stupid and looking like an idiot; I'm getting better! Thanks for the video, it shows you can never be too cautious!

[@jzero5461]

I remember purchasing a rough Turkish Mauser that was an attic find "as is". I came to find out that there was a small part missing that caused the gun to fire when the safety was selected off, yikes. I have since remedied the issue and the gun works great. It helps to follow the pilots model "in god we trust, all else we check"

[@jorgeojeda7623]

Had a salesman at a local PX say you had to be 21 to buy a rifle "7.62x51 and higher" I said oh is that a PX rule? He said, "no, the ATF puts a stamp on the guns paperwork stating that." I left laughing.

[@joecaprino8623]

It's my experience with many gun shops that the person behind the counter doesn't have my best interests at heart. Almost always they will tell me what THEY like, and what works best for THEM. Rarely have I seen the behind the counter person be concerned with what might be good for me.

[@Khalrua]

As a gun consumer/customer- there’s also a lot a gun store “types”.

[@quigz125]

Lmao dude my dad and I bought a pistol from a gun store about an hour away from us. Ordered it on a Saturday, the next weekend we picked it up. Close to 2 weeks after we got our pistol that same gun store shut its doors and jumped ship. Turns out they where taking customers guns in for like repairs and maintenance and such, the guns they had in their possession from that (which were still 100% owned by their customers) they closed the shop and put all those guns in an auction behind their customers’ backs. A lot of people ended up really screwed over by that store.

[@martyyoung3611]

In my experience your small local shops can be really great, the bigger ones tend to be staffed by either arrogant pricks or clueless idiots.

[@SylentONE]

You have described every gun shop I've ever been to. With the exception of the Base Exchange gun counter. They are usually ok about customer service

[@dummgelauft]

Exactly. Hardly any old gunsmiths left anymore... Most gunstores have right-leaning mall-ninjas, outright racists and/or angry ex-servicemen as their staff.

[@carlschumacher3257]

@@dummgelauft racists come in all colors, but i am sure that you know that.

[@dummgelauft]

@@carlschumacher3257 no they don't come in "all colors". Racists are exclusively white.

[@carlschumacher3257]

@@dummgelauft your remark is racist.

[@duster0066]

I really appreciate the way these guys do these types of vids. They teach rather than denigrate the way some of their peers do. A class act.

[@shaynevirts3611]

Just because someone works in a gun shop does not necessarily mean they are a professional; like everyone else they have their preferences and jaded opinions of rifles, shotguns, and pistols.

[@sceriteri4157]

so having preferences makes you not professional

[@m0nkEz]

@@sceriteri4157 professionals can recognize the difference between objective reality and their subjective opinions. If their preferences influence their behavior on the job, they aren't professional.

[@72motochef]

Older gentleman was trying to sell 3 older hunting rifles to a local gun shop. Clerk asked if they were unloaded and the gun owner said "yes, haven't used them in years". Clerk double checked, all 3 had rounds in the chamber.

[@TubeDeviant]

Also, take your own budget into account because that affects every aspect of gun ownership. From what type and caliber of firearm you buy, the type and amount of ammunition you buy, how much training can be afforded.. etc. One's physical stature is also critical to what type of firearm you buy.

[@azcactus2008]

TubeDeviant I don’t understand what the problem is with a first time gun owner getting a 1911. It’s only the best trigger on the market. And they will definitely need training no matter what firearm they get. It might be a little out of the ordinary, but I don’t see anything outrageous about it.

[@jaredvoorhees8617]

Wish I had thought about that before I bought a double stack .45.

[@TubeDeviant]

@@azcactus2008 I never said anything about 1911's.

[@TubeDeviant]

@@jaredvoorhees8617 How many rounds does your double stack hold..?? Maybe check out the CZ 97..? It's a double stack but holds 10 rounds.

[@jaredvoorhees8617]

@@TubeDeviant 13+1

[@oldcop18]

I’m a 75 y/o retired cop w/decades of firearm experience, to include on-duty gunfights, yet sometimes get treated like an old f**t by a few of the phony tough guy gun store clerks. Most of them are helpful but it seems the younger ones have something to prove.

[@darlescharwin5307]

Should always mention to watch out for the “car salesman” type at your LGS. I’ve met one at almost every shop I’ve been to. They try to up sell you on a gun you weren’t interested in and love pushing used handguns. Make sure you research the gun your interested and the ones you aren’t as well. If the seller gives you pushback on your requested gun then don’t feel weird saying you’ll look somewhere else. My first gun purchase was a ruger gp100. I was interest in a 5 inch model and the store only had the snub nose variant. The owner threw a fit because I refused to buy the one he had even though it wasn’t what I wanted. Another employee offered to order it in for me. I thanked him and left. Purchased it at a store 2 blocks away for $50 more because they were a pleasure to deal with. To my surprise others had left bad reviews about the guy and he always gave insightful reply’s that essentially said “f u, punk loser”. Gotta love em.

[@-Zevin-]

Totally true, but I have a different story, went to a local gun store, discussed options at length, never tried to sell me anything. I decided on a rifle I wanted to buy, they only had one, as I was filling out a layaway to pick it up later that week. A guy grabbed it off a rack and bought it. It just bad timing and awkward, I didn't push the issue, it was almost comically unlucky. The employee was incredibly apologetic and even recommended me another few places within a 20min drive, even gave me names and directions to go check, or they could place a order for me to have it in a few weeks. That type of honestly and customer service made me a customer for life.

[@Tula1940_LB]

Always check to see if a gun is loaded even if its in a gun shop. I've been handed a loaded and chambered SKS with the safety disengaged at a pawnshop that sold guns.

[@garyreno6795]

Pawn shop.

[@Ray-xx5np]

@@garyreno6795 Yep. Every pawn shop I've walked into sells firearms. I've always wondered how any pawn shop verifies that a firearm is functioning properly. Its not like there's a range out in back of the store for them to check it. Someone walks in, sells them a gun, and a few days later, its out for sale, and usually at an inflated price. Strange.

[@markfreburg1608]

Brownell's says don't get involved with a salesman and another customer--usually good advice. However some salesmen allow customers to muzzle anything and everyone--if the sales clerk won't stop them it is our right and duty to say something. "Sir or madam, please do not point that firearm at me." If they say it isn't loaded, I think we ALL know how to respond to that.

[@CalebSavant]

Agreed

[@shawnr771]

Safety first. Everytime.

[@alvinb.52]

How would we all respond? I'm only asking because I'm new to the gun world.

[@csmphotography]

@@alvinb.52 Every gun is always loaded. All of the time. Period.

[@curttuundra]

Assume the gun is loaded so don't point it at anything you don't want to destroy!

[@moushunter]

I"m not a gun store worker but I do have people ask me to help them choose a first firearm. I always suggest they come to the range with me to try some out. I always give a cursory safety lesson including how the ammunition works, how each style of firearm works, range etiquette, etc. I did that with my GF and she fell in love with my Taurus .357mag revolver. She is deadly accurate with it too. If someone doesn't have a friend to help them they should go to an indoor range and rent a variety of firearms to try out before making a decision.

[@zososldier]

The one that I want an answer to is, "is it ok to break down a gun at a gun store?" (easily broken down guns like most pistols or AR type rifles) I got yelled at by an employee at a shop when I was looking at a used sig p226. I wanted to inspect it. I know how to take them apart fairly well. They acted like I broke the thing in half. They then snatched it away and started looking to find any defects I may have caused. (maybe a scummy way to make me buy it because "you broke it") I got yelled at by another employee when I opened a hodge podge AR just to see if the gas key was staked. (that time I kind of did it out of spite) I ended up leaving and haven't been back because the employee that yelled at me about the pistol interrupted a convo I was having with a fellow customer and had to interject that a 1911 is the only answer when thinking about buying a pistol. (other customer was debating between the M&P 2.0 or a Glock. A 1911 wasn't even an option for him)

[@504Trey]

U don't deserve to own a gun. Stay tf out of my gun store..

[@zh3401]

At the range (indoor) where I often shoot any one who is not a member is required to watch a brief safety presentation which addresses the basics of range etiquette and responsibilities before being allowed on the range. This presentation could become just as valuable a tool as that for people who are just getting interested in owning firearms. All too often when entering a gun shop for the first time I often see the staff with their "regulars" and they pay little attention to the new customer. That can cause a barrier to the new customer as they are not part of the "tribe". I have worked in a few gun shops as a sales staff member and I was always very mindful of a new face coming through the door. A warm smile and acknowledgement often broke the ice. Talk with the person, not at them. Get them to open up about the purpose for the firearm and their experience level by calm caring engagement. The shop owner I currently work for insists to staff that I am the one to engage all new customers, triage the skill set, the need and purpose of the visit and handle the process. I often take them to the range where I will have them shoot the rental guns to make sure they are getting what fits them and their needs. I spend more time with my customers than most do but I have a very high closure rate and drive a good deal of the new memberships. So gun sales staff, please let us remove the barriers to entry for those new to firearms. Inclusion, compassion, patience and honesty.

[@aholegunner]

You forgot a comma after "...not a member" in your 1st sentence. LMAO yes Im half joking. Nonetheless, what you are saying is wise. I appreciate your comment.

[@killtosurvive6021]

Checking if your firearm is loaded before you hand it to somebody is respect. Same thing when your buddy checks if it’s unloaded before he hands it to you, respect

[@cowmaneater1243]

I head into a new gun shop by my house with a friend that is by my house. Former cops run it, seems pretty cool with what they got in stock. I am talking to my friend far away from the clerk/owner and I point to a mossberg shockwave on the wall and tell him its considered a firearm (this is Michigan) clerk screams "no its a shotgun" with attitude, I tell him I realize its functionally a shotgun but it isn't one legally. He then changes track and again with attitude and tells me its a pistol legally and needs a purchase permit. We just walk out, not only was the guy rude but telling me something that legally not true while being an FFL and a former cop who should know better

[@beck-tn9gl]

Good video. I worked in Gun Shops for 3 years. There are no shortage of knuckleheads. I have so many unloaded guns pointed at me that I lost track. I corrected that particular persons handling on each occasion. I also had guns dry fired at me. When various people wanted to either sell a gun or have it fitted for a holster, on numerous occasions, they handed me a loaded firearm. The best one was a couple just left our indoor range and had a negligent discharge while sitting in their car in front of our Store.

[@b75s]

DRY FIRE AT YOU!?😞....... GOOD GRIEF!😞

[@camoman7342]

How did you not leap over the counter and beat the living hell out of them?! Edit: I'm referring to the dry fire of course.

[@beck-tn9gl]

@@camoman7342 It wasn't easy. Self-control and restraint.

[@Turtl-ss4lj]

I feel you, brother. I’ve impressed myself with the level of self control and patience I didn’t know that I had before working behind the counter. There are definitely some mildly terrifying aspects, to say the least.

[@m16ty]

I get "put off" by most gun stores and their employees, and I've been to guns stores my whole life. I couldn't imagine how intimidating it would be for somebody buying their first gun.

[@m0nkEz]

Guns are great. Gun people are a little more hit or miss.

[@narwhal9852]

I turn 21 next month and I'm waiting to get my a gun for protection and to take to the range I have no formal experience and my family dose not support firearms. I don't want to embarrass myself trying to buy a gun

[@m16ty]

@@narwhal9852 Good for you, nothing to be embarrassed about. Just be honest with the salesman and let them know you are new to guns, hopefully you'll get a decent one that will actually help you with your purchase. You'll have better luck at more of a "mom and pop" store than you will at the big box type stores.

[@CREAM-TEAM]

I’ve specifically not went and got my first pistol because I want to 100% know the rules and how to check a gun out before buying it in the store without having someone intimidate me that I’m spending money with.

[@CREAM-TEAM]

@@narwhal9852 did you end up going?

[@PaulJersey]

I went to this gun show, and I was looking for a budget 1911. Of course the salesman asked me to look at a $4,000.00 1911 first to see what features that I might be missing with my budget purchase. I’m 6’-2”, 212 lbs and lift weights. I couldn’t rack the slide. Couldn’t budge it. I handed it back to the salesman and he couldn’t rack it either. I tried it again with no luck. This big dude was watching us that made me look small. He tried it, and he couldn’t rack it either. It was like King Author’s sword…LOL!

[@tenhundredkills]

I have a silly question: was the safety flipped up on this $4k 1911? No 1911 at any price point should be impossible to rack, unless the safety is on!

[@PaulJersey]

@@tenhundredkills No, maybe Mr Les Baer can answer why he let a defective gun leave his shop.

[@nodrama7636]

All gun shop employees are not EXPERTS but they often think they are and treat most customers with disdain (My perception). I've actually gone to the higher priced gun store where I live just to avoid having to deal with the attitude in the other store. Anyway......on to my last experience with one of the "experts"......I was at the store picking up my new CZ75 (We have the 10 day wait), and while the guy was getting my gun from the back there was a older grandma type next to me at the counter with her 30 something non-gun owning kid and a 20 something sales guy on the other side of the counter "helping" her. Looking at her and her kid (and being bored from the wait), I assumed the "expert" would likely explain to her that the best handgun for a new shooter who isn't going to practice much and doesn't have a lot of hand or arm strength is probably a mid size 357 revolver loaded with 38 special (I know, we all have opinions...that's mine). Instead...what does the guy come out with? A frigging Kimber 45 Aluminum framed CDP compact and the older woman just loved the way it looked. It took every bit of restraint I had to stand there and not say anything but that's what I did. I even thought about giving the lady my number and telling her to call me because I figured she would want to get rid of it cheap after the first range trip but there was no tactful way of doing that. I was even tempted to hang around until after they left and let the kid behind the counter know that was a shitty thing to do but I just ran out of time...........I've been shooting guns all my life and have bought and sold many but I don't consider to be anywhere near an "expert" but damn......it is difficult to stand there and listen to the BS some times.

[@ScreaminMadMurphy]

After buying my first gun at a gun store (hi-point 45 carbine don't judge me), i was convinced buying online was the better option. Sometimes i'll poke around in a pawn shop see if they have anything cool, but i'm done buying guns in person. I'll deal with a gun shop to buy ammo and magazines, but thats it.

[@nancyoffenhiser4916]

Steve and Caleb, in these trying times of Covid and Panic, your video is timely. Thanks so much.

[@b75s]

(My own experience), when a gun-smith order parts for your firearms, let them call you when the parts arrive, be patient, sometimes those extra parts can take up to a month or so to arrive. If you keep calling the gun-smith every other day he/she will become impatient with you, TRUST ME, that like pissing off your dentist while they are doing your teeth. That's the mistake I made the first time I dealt with a gun-smith.

[@b75s]

@Jim Hudson I take my hat off for you guys.

[@UrNotThatGuyPal]

FFLs do their best to process our stuff, no one is sitting on your lower. I never get why people try to rush them, you’re not that important lol

[@CalebSavant]

Agreed!

[@b75s]

@@gg9xfrx4m30 It does save money when you D.I.Y to your own firearms, I will say that.

[@flinch9748]

b75s i agree, but there’s a flipside. It’s also not nice to wait a couple of days, even months, finally calling the gunshop and getting told the parts were delivered last month, sorry we forgot to call you...

[@nmysights0185]

One of my local gun stores has an “Unloaded” jar. Every time someone brings in an “unloaded” gun that still has a round in the chamber when the clerk goes to clear it, they put the round in that jar. They have to empty it once every week or two. So, to answer your question, no, the clerk does not trust you, and they shouldn’t, because you are a human capable of accidentally doing dumb things. Anyone who gets offended by a clerk checking a gun should put a bit more effort into safety training.

[@Master_Cyrus]

Great video thanks for sharing!

[@aulii11]

These presentations are very much appreciated by those of us who have been "around" firearms for many years, but may not be as experienced as others.

[@brownells]

Thank you!

[@yokoshemp]

Don't go shopping for a .22 rifle... nope nope nope. Last summer I attempted that and a .22 pistol and a .45 they had on sale followed me home. I tried again and a mint condition Winchester Model 12 just jumped into my arms. Tried again and a S&W .44 magnum that I always wanted somehow got on the counter beside the cash register. Safe... nope then there was the beautiful Series 70 that sang to my heart. Finally it did happen that a .22 rifle called out to me and actually came home just in time for rabbit season. If you are like me just stay far away from gun stores.

[@aliharajli95]

I am loving these quick tips series. Keep it up!

[@brownells]

Thank you!

[@waldothegreat100]

Many gun stores in my part of the world have a range as well. They will let you try before you buy. Shot several in the category you are looking for. Reviews are nice but nothing beats shooting one to see how you like it.

[@martyyoung3611]

I was in the market for a Baer 1911, I found a used one in a shop that also had a range. You could, supposedly, shoot any of their used guns as long as you purchased their ammo. I looked the pistol over and asked if I could try it on the indoor range, the guy got this horrified look on his face and turned to another employee and asked if it was OK for me to try it out. The other guy looked at me, back to the counter guy and shook his head no. I walked out with my money and bought one online.

[@ZacLowing]

Had a guy excitedly show me his gun once, he even unloaded the revolver... but he wasn't good at cleaning it. One round hadn't fallen out when he thought he emptied it. Yeah, always check for yourself.

[@auburn886]

I asked to look at a pistol in Academy. The employee removed the pistol from the case and pointed directly at my chest to check to see if it was loaded. I am normally a calm person, but I let him have it. The store manager gave me $50 in credits because he saw it on the video tape. He assured me the employee would be “re-educated”. I frequent that store and have never seen that person again.

[@jaredvoorhees8617]

I was in a Cabela's in 09 and a guy pulled a .22 rifle out of one of the barrels and pointed it right at my head. Being in the military, I grabbed it from him and told him to go home before the associate who was with him could say anything

[@johnm3907]

Jared Voorhees wow what a story!!

[@shawnr771]

I hang out across from the gun area for a bit and watch. If I see a lull in the traffic pattern I move in and look. If it starts getting crowded I move out. Usually if I am just browsing the counter I wait until the counter help is engaged with other customers.

[@merrickmixson362]

Brownell's Is Great ! You might mention people who stand behind the buyer's shoulder when they are trying to consider a gun, almost always happens to me. Some rubbernecker stands right at my shoulder from behind and starts butting in. I had to simply leave the store once.

[@BloomerMindset]

There's a local gun shop my family prefers. They are family owned and operated. They are superb at making you feel welcome, and also being very clear on the do's and don'ts in their shop.

[@emersonbolen784]

I'm a retired US Army Special Forces Sergeants Major and I have helped several individuals purchase their first firearms and helped to teach them gun safety and basic practical shooting at the range.

[@dmutant2635]

A shout out to the old SF Gun Exchange. One of the best crewed stores I ever visited. They were a little oasis in the midst of downtown San Francisco. They are greatly missed.

[@chrischiampo7647]

Thanks Steve n Caleb 😀😎👍🏼

[@brownells]

Thanks for watching!

[@piewackete]

I did a lot of research online before going to the gun store to get my first gun, the first guy was friendly enough and was showing me a couple pistols while the other clerk while trying to talk me out of buying the Glock I was interested in while pointing the sig P364 directly at my chest…he then grabbed the Glock 44 I was going to buy, drops the magazine clears it and dry fired it! I know it’s fine with most guns and is probably fine with the G44 but everything I was taught is never dry fire a rimfire gun. I ended up buying the Glock 44 and a gen 3 Glock 17 the same day….from the other clerk

[@loutarango2882]

I just got accepted into TSJC gunsmithing program this week. I went into a big box store a few months ago looking at 9mm pistols, the kid behind the counter wanted to show me 45's. He went on telling me 45s are made to stop people that's when I asked him how many times had he been shot by a 9mm. That's when I explained my reasoning for carrying 9mm for EDC.

[@kmerkingdomfilms]

Good info. Thanks for sharing.

[@NMAFTA]

I was in a shop one time talking with the owner and an employee was showing another guy a rifle on the other side of the store. He wanted to check out the sights so he aimed it at someone's head across the room and dry fired it. He got removed real quick.

[@Iceaxehikes]

Some rules for customers from a fellow customer; Don't spin and slam the cylinder on any revolver period. You close the cylinder by pressing on the crane. Don't dry fire anything in the store without asking. They may say no and that is okay. Or maybe they have a snap cap. Or maybe they don't care. Point is; until you buy it, it ain't yours. The spinning the cylinder and slamming it home just really pisses me off and i have seen it more than a few times so i mentioned it here twice. You are putting undue stress on the crane, possibly scratching the cylinder, and perhaps messing with the cylinder timing by slamming it like that while it is spinning. Just please, close it by simply pressing on the crane carefully. Don't volunteer advice or go into political diatribes at the counter. People are spending some cash on an important purchase that they have been thinking about and perhaps dreaming about for a long time.. don't interfere.

[@fordfan3179]

I was in Cabela's and a guy to my right was looking at some handguns. The salesmen cleared the revolver and handed it to the customer who very quickly opened the gate, spun the cylinder and flipped it closed and up to that point everything looked good (albiet immature Hollywood crap) but it was at that point the revolver kept going down the glass counter bouncing and spinning at a couple other customers. I don't know how that pistol didn't go through the top of that showcase. You think that would have been the end of that sales session but nooooo, the salesmen says, "happens all the time!" I remember taking a mental picture of the customer just in case I ever see him at our local range. If I gotta share a range with him, I want to be on his left.

[@mossranchoutdoors7249]

I was in my local gun store the other day and asked the clerk what brand this AR looking shotgun was. It's a Ree-Ah, he said. R.I.A, Rock Island Armory. Oooohhhhkayyyyyy

[@khantra4568]

First gun store I ever purchased a firearm from was run out of a retired cop's barn. Unfortunately, it burned in the northern California fires in 2017.

[@michaelquillen2679]

When I bought my first handgun years ago, the gun store employee said, "Man, you're nervous. Either you're looking to commit a crime or you're a first time buyer. Which is it?" When I said that I was a first time handgun buyer, he told me to relax and that there was no such thing as a dumb question. 50 years later, I still have that handgun he sold me; A Ruger Security Six. He was more into educating me rather than trying to sell me something. Great experience.

[@ThtGuyNameJorge]

I would probably own 3-4 more guns if gun shop owners/workers were just easier to deal with. Most of them are just snobby and I appreciate the ones that make an effort to help your purchase go smoothly

[@millermonsterair]

gunshop employees are not created equal. one particular time, when i was looking for a Canik TP9SFx, i had been looking at them for about a year. i had alot of knowledge about the TP9SFx. i went to the counter and asked to look at it. he pulled it out of the case for me. i asked if it came with the whole kit, ie; spare mags, rmr plates and such..... i asked "does it also come with the second 20rd mag". he popped the mag out and said, and i quote " no, it comes with this one 18rd mag, and its from Turkey. i dont even know why we have this".... i turned right around and walked out because he tried to argue with me. thats fine. there was another shop less than a block away. i went to that one, walked in, asked the same thing and that employee was super helpful and knew a thing or two. even though the price was $20 more there, to me, it was worth the extra $20 simply because of the quality of customer service....yeah, i get it, the Turkish government sucks. so does ours though and a good gun is a good gun. if they were so uptight about not having guns from "evil governments", they wouldnt have anything from nazi germany, but guess what? lol. a good gun is a good gun. i dont care who makes it.

[@jamesa4958]

Thank you

[@Goodguy99781]

Great advice 👍

[@ETHRON1]

I worked the counter for a couple years, the one that's sticks most in my head was a gentleman looked at a shotgun and while discussing it he informed me he had No experience with guns...as this was apparent because he kept muzzling his kid standing next to him. After a brief discussion about gun safety and hunting rules he decided to get some training before purchasing the gun...what went through my mind was "Thank God" he didn't buy it.

[@captainclapsalot430]

Great habit to get into is gun safety never ever let ur guard down always remember your dealing with something that can change things for you and others in a hair of a second gotta be careful

[@aylmerjohnson4906]

I'm Friends with my local gun shop owner, he is Awesome, he let's me pick what gun I want, but if it's a cheap model, he'll let me know about it and recommend a better one for me, so I can be Satisfied with my purchase, Good man...

[@Ray-xx5np]

He *IS* a good man, and he's good at his job. It'd be nice to find more people like that, not only in gun shops, but in other specialized businesses as well.

[@ricardocontreras96]

Excellent video! Keep up the good work.

[@brownells]

Thanks for watching!

[@leerethamel3204]

horror story.. I was at a gun shop a few years ago when this young kid (21 ish) and he was carrying a pistol with bright green grips in a cross draw holster. The kid kept touching his gun, and acting like he was about to quick draw it. He made a few customers nervous and i left fairly soon after

[@rexroscoeroggaschjr7530]

I bought a cz Rami from a local gun store in October 2020. I was in display case, tag and salesman stated brand new. Never fired or left my possession. We moved to another state in September 2022. February 2023 I finally wanted to take a gun safety/CCW class, thought I’d put cz tritium sight since stock one were not very bright, older eyes, even though I was one practicing in house with barrelblok. Went to respected father/son gun smith that specialize in CZ sales and service to Oder and install and do a low level inspection since it’ll be first live fire during class, safety first. Long and short, front sight was epoxied, rear sight off center, wear on slide, powder residue in bore and mild corrosion from poor cleaning!!!! Lesson learned: If in a display case, take to gunsmith immediately after possession to ensure brand new!!!

[@cheatingdeathcustoms2244]

Great video!

[@thegobblerproject2363]

All good points

[@Xbox_qt]

I love this this is amazing advice!!! Keep it up boys 🙌🙌🙌🔥🔥🔥

[@Splattertube]

Excellent information, as well as the comments. I'd like to add, if I may, take into account the availability of ammo for said firearm. That current condition has been directing my current purchase(s). As someone here said that your budget is a factor during the selection, purchase, and after-the-fact. My 2¢.

[@thegobblerproject2363]

Walked in a gun store one day and a guy had brought in a semi auto 9mm pistol he said wouldn’t work and was a piece of junk brand new in the box m&p. the guys at the shop had a look on their face like this guy again. He loaded the rounds in the mag backwards and had a live round jammed in the barrel primer facing towards the muzzle. They explained to him what he did wrong and fixed the issue even showed him how to load the gun and shot a round in the clearing bucket to show him it worked. He kept trying to tell them they were wrong and the bullets went in the other way. The guy left pissed off bad mouthing everyone. They told me they sold him that gun the day before and had walked him through how to load it and he couldn’t grasp which way the bullets went in the mag.

[@johnhammered5266]

Gun shows are another way to get around the nuances of stores. More stuff. More salesmen. And more opinions. Not necessarily better deals! The last two purchases that i made were at a local dealer that own 8 stores here in Florida. I talked the salesman into taking $200.00 off the purchase of a new AR 10. Then last month came back and picked up a 300 Blackout for $100 OFF. So don't be afraid to haggle over price. Even during a pandemic!

[@hachi-rokuperformancegroup3987]

One of the local gun shops sends everyone to other stores. Major gun snobs anytime me or even person i known looked at a gun they'd down play the gun and talk down to customers for not wanting the best most expensive gun the other guns shops are still in business but not them

[@blackcellagent]

My favorite job I have ever had was and still is working at a gun shop/ range. You meet a lot of great, like minded individuals. It is a very different atmosphere than any other job I’ve had. My favorite thing is working with brand new customers who want to join the 2A community and just want to learn. You have questions, I love to answer them. If I don’t know, I will find out and learn myself! There is so much information out there and I strive to learn more everyday. That said, like in any profession, there is snobbery. I’m not about that. We need to change that. You can’t afford the best of the best, no one should scoff at that. We all start somewhere and generally, for most of us, it’s a small start. That said, I will never lie to a person just make a sale. I will offer the facts and give an educated opinion. “Would you buy this gun?” No, it’s not for me. Let’s talk about if it’s right for you.

[@ron4hunting]

going to try and keep this short . yrs ago i was thinking on getting a new 30-06 bolt gun . i like the good ol 06 . went into a gun shop in nashville . told the guy what i was looking for . and he started about the 308 . and he handed me new rifles off the rack to look at . then would say ' see how nice and short the action is '. or ' see how fast the bolt is to work .' never once showing me a 30-06 ! i asked ' do you have this in a 30-06 '? he said yes . but never got one off the rack ! i finally just walked out the door !! he was not working there when i went in a few mths later . he cost them a sale the day i was in . but i just kept my old remington 700 bdl . and never got a new 06 .

[@doomsayer7937]

I shot a buddies Glock 44 in 22lr and loved it. I went into a lgs and they didn't have that model. They did steer me to a couple of other, cheaper models,and I had looked those up also. I picked another 22 semi auto and it was 100 bucks cheaper! I love the pistol. Trust your experienced gun store professionals. All I have to say.

[@chrishanington393]

Shop owner said the revolver wasn't working right because it was dirty. Charged $150 to clean it. The lady took it to another shop and found out her firing pin on the hammer was broken lol.

[@bobjames2312]

When I look at a gun at the gun store, I never pit the gun into battery when I hold it and manipulate it, nor do I keep the magazine in the firearm. I always hand it back with the magazine out, and put of battery, it helps the employee clear it and guarantee its safe when he puts it back in the display. Also, make your budget known, if there is one. That way the employee doesn't show you a Stacatto when your budget supports a Shield Plus

[@joeydehart3429]

I went into a gun shop and wanted to see how a pistol functioned and got scolded. That was all I needed to know from that gunshop and went somewhere else where I could check the function to see if the pistol worked right for me. I also had a gun shop employee smack talk every single pistol that wasn't a glock (showing his rear end and blowing a sale).

[@seymourgreen-musicgroup]

Nice video!

[@mpatrick7860]

I've seen gun store employees chastise customers over their potential choices. I saw a young woman come in to buy her first gun. The guy behind the counter was confrontational with a diatribe about gun safety. She hadn't even picked up a gun yet. She left with tears in her eyes. I saw a gun store employee dissuade a customer about a type of gun he was interested in, pulled his 357 and started working the action back and forth, lowering the hammer and then re cocking it. He was talking to the guy as he was doing that, "This is a 357.....now IT has real stopping power"..... and then BANG!!!! Accidental discharge. IN THE STORE! The guy behind the counter accidently fired a 357 in there. I mean....can you believe that shit? Everyones ears were ringing badly! This is typical to Seattle area gun stores. The employees in almost all of them are rude and condescending. I moved east of the mountains.....gun stores out here are markedly different. The employees are nice, professional and seem happy to help.

[@Zeppelinfaktor]

I really enjoy shooting, but gun stores always set me on edge.

[@bobinthewest8559]

Fairly recently, I brought a Henry lever rifle into a gun shop to have it shipped to a friend. I checked it out by my vehicle, then put it back into its box and brought it inside. I was really uncomfortable with the fact that the fella behind the counter never checked it himself. Now, I’ve transferred over a dozen firearms through their store, and I made sure they all were cleared before bringing them in… so on some level, I guess I’ve gained their trust in this regard. But still… I really wanted to say to him, “Aren’t you gonna check that?” But I held my tongue.

[@jagman2962]

I know firearms quite well but I DONT know it all. If there is a specific gun I’m looking at I usually research it throughly before I go to my gun store so I know a little about what I’m looking at. Just helps a bit and less time the employee has to spend with me. Plus keeps the line moving quicker. Just my 2 cents. 😀

[@brownells]

Good Move!

[@roygreer5615]

I had to look back to see who wrote your comment. I thought it might be me.

[@billhinkle1653]

Worked behind the counter for 5 years and got disgusted. #1 tip- Don't point the gun at me, or "paint me with the muzzle. Never handle a firearm with out clearing it first. I had 4 times in 5 years working part time they pointed a gun at my belly, and it was loaded. #2-Try to buck the trend. Most newbies think that the solution to all gun mysteries is more velocity. Wrong. #3- When you look at ammo, if you must open the box, don't wreck the box, as no one will want to buy it after you put it back. #4 When you put it back, put it back where you got it from. In a large gun store, I would spend over an hour every morning putting all the ammo back where it belonged, and taping up torn boxes. It always amazed me how ammo from one aisle would end up in another aisle at the other end. #5- I really got tired of deer hunting stories, and how a deer with an IQ of about 11 outsmarted you, or how you missed a whole deer at 25 yards. Practice, and confidence should overcome "buck fever". The deer you wounded deserved better.

[@foxsquirrel3038]

Good stuff. Spot on, let the new person just talk go the salesman vs voluntier info that was not asked for. 👍

[@CorneliusFahey]

You guys put out great videos. Thank you!

[@slimmestjim7517]

Dont forget, if you want to test a gun store and see if its good, bring them a lever gun in parts with different screws in different plastic bags...like I did. They fixed it in a day. Love those guys, last time I ever buy a Rossi