Everyone Starts
Somewhere.
Welcome to ShootingTalk. Whether you've never touched a firearm or just got your first gun, this is the friendliest place on the internet to start your journey. No judgment. No gatekeeping. Just good people who love shooting.
Learn Everything in Order.
Earn Badges as You Go.
A free, self-paced 7-lesson mini-course covering everything a first-time shooter needs to know — safety rules, finding a range, what to bring, terminology, local laws, and safe storage. Complete lessons to unlock progress badges.
Your First 4 Steps
Create Your Free Account
Sign up in under a minute. No credit card required. Your account gives you access to all 10 public forums.
Introduce Yourself
Head to the Community Lounge and post an introduction. Tell us who you are and what brought you to shooting.
Ask Your First Question
No question is too basic here. Post in New Shooters Corner and the community will help you out.
Explore the Forums
Browse Firearms & Gear, Range Talk, Training & Safety — there's a category for everything you want to learn.
The Rules That
Never Change.
Before anything else — before buying your first gun, before going to the range, before asking any question — know these rules. They are the foundation of safe shooting.
Fundamental Safety Rules
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded
- Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot
- Know your target and what is beyond it
- Store firearms safely and securely
- Always wear eye and ear protection at the range
Beginner FAQs
I've never owned a gun before. Where do I start?
Start with a safety course from a certified instructor. The NRA, USCCA, and many local ranges offer beginner courses. Post in New Shooters Corner and members will point you to resources in your area.
What's the best first gun to buy?
It depends on your purpose — home defense, sport shooting, or hunting. A common recommendation for beginners is a mid-size 9mm pistol or a .22 LR rifle for low recoil and affordable practice ammo. Ask in Firearms & Gear for personalized advice.
How do I find a range near me?
Use ShootingTalk Local Discovery to search for nearby ranges, clubs, and FFL dealers by ZIP code. Many ranges offer introductory sessions and rental firearms so you can try before you buy.
What do I need to know about gun laws?
Laws vary significantly by state. Our Laws & Regulations forum covers state and federal laws. Always verify current laws with official sources or a licensed attorney — forum members can point you in the right direction.
Will I be judged for asking beginner questions?
Absolutely not. ShootingTalk has a strict no-gatekeeping policy. Every experienced shooter was a beginner once. New Shooters Corner exists specifically for questions like yours.
Trusted External Resources
Reputable organizations for beginner training and safety.
Your New Shooter
Checklist.
Check off each step as you go. No rush — take it at your own pace.
Ask Anonymously
Embarrassed to ask a "basic" question? Don't be — but if you prefer, post in New Shooters Corner without your real name. Create a free account and choose any username you like. No one will know who you are.
Create anonymous accountTraining Plans
Ready to get structured? Browse our beginner-safe training plans — from your first range trip to competition prep.
Browse training plansFind a Mentor
Want one-on-one guidance from an experienced shooter? Get matched with a volunteer mentor in your area.
Find a mentorFind a Certified Safety Course
A certified safety course is the best first step for any new shooter. These organizations offer nationally recognized beginner programs.
NRA Training
Find NRA-certified instructors and courses near you
USCCA Training
Concealed carry and self-defense focused courses
Project Appleseed
Rifle marksmanship clinics across the country
Hunter Education
State-certified hunter education courses
Ready to Ask Your First Question?
Create your free account and post in New Shooters Corner. The community is waiting to help.