Have you finally decided to invest in a gun? If so, your first trip to a gun store can be an intimidating and for some uncomfortable experience.
In order not to feel uneasy when visiting such a shop, you’re supposed to behave in accordance with gun-handling etiquette. When looking for a gun store in OKC, make sure it offers a wide assortment of handguns, long guns, and accessories.
The following tips will help you prepare for your first visit to such a shop in Oklahoma City.
Ensure safety
Safety is of the utmost importance when visiting a gun store in Oklahoma City for the very first time. Even though weapons shouldn’t be loaded inside such shops, there’s a slight possibility for some models to be loaded. Therefore, buyers should treat weapons just like they’re loaded to reduce the risk of unfortunate accidents.
While examining a gun, make sure not to point it at the salesperson or the other customers in the shop. Looking down the muzzle isn’t recommended, as well as pointing the weapon to any part of your body. Following the basic safety rules is indispensable when taking a trip to such stores in order not to jeopardize your safety and the wellbeing of everyone around you.
The staff is likely to carry guns
Another thing that first-time buyers might find intimidating when visiting a gun store is that most of the sales staff carries weapons. Nevertheless, there’s nothing to feel intimidated about, as it’s a common practice.
Salespeople are likely to wear firearms in order to promote the products they sell at their shops. Security is another reason for such a practice, as clerks need to wear them for self-defense. Given the value of weapons, it’s common for thieves to try their luck and steal some firearms. Anyhow, keep in mind that clerks won’t be taking their weapons out if there’s no threat to their safety.
Follow gun-handling etiquette rules
Another tip to bear in mind when visiting such a shop in OKC is to follow gun-handling etiquette rules. Buyers are expected to behave in a way that won’t endanger the safety of the clerks and other shoppers. When handed a gun to inspect, the first thing to do is ensure it’s unloaded. Click here for some tips on handling a firearm safely.
Although the salesperson is expected to perform this task seconds before giving the weapon to you, make sure to check again. The clerk won’t be frustrated or offended by your behavior, as salespeople are glad when buyers adhere to gun-handling etiquette rules.
After ensuring the weapon is unloaded, most buyers wish to press the trigger. Instead of doing so without consulting the salesperson, ask for permission to dry fire the gun. The act of dry firing a weapon refers to pulling the trigger when the firearm isn’t loaded. Although there’s nothing wrong with dry firing a weapon, never forget to ask the shop assistant for approval.
When looking through the sights, the firearm should be pointed at the ceiling or the floor. While maneuvering it, make sure not to point it at the clerk. The muzzle should always be pointed towards the floor and later to an empty wall or the ceiling when raising it. Once you’re done inspecting it, don’t point the muzzle towards the shop assistant when returning the weapon.
Get familiar with the purchase process
When shopping for a gun, an ATF 4473 form should be completed on the part of the buyer. This form requires the shopper to provide contact information details and meet eligibility criteria related to one’s legal status. It’s paramount for individuals not to lie when filling out the ATF 4473 form, as they’ll be charged with a federal felony.
After completing the form, your name will be checked through the FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). The procedure of background check lasts a few minutes, following which shoppers with clean records can purchase a weapon.
This link, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Instant_Criminal_Background_Check_System, explains the background and functionality of the NICS.
Conclusion
Be on your best behavior when shopping for a gun.
The shop assistants will appreciate it!
