I’d like to get into shooting. Probably mostly going to a range maybe once or twice a week.

I’d like to mostly shoot a rifle, but I’d like some recommendations on - getting a firm footing on the basics (safety, storage, loading, cleaning, etc.) - whether that is via online resources, books, augmented with in-person training, etc.

Also when it comes to a decent rifle for eventual purchase - I’m up for recommendations.

  • southsamurai@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    6·
    3 months ago

    I’m going to suggest the old standard ruger 10-22.

    Simple enough for a beginner to maintain well, but solid enough to enjoy for a lifetime. It’s also customizable, with plenty of options out there.

    As far as training, nothing beats in person, and it’s one of those things where it’s important enough to get the training from someone that may not be political ally if need be. You just can’t get the kind of correction needed as you’re learning without an experienced shooter helping. It isn’t something you can read your way through entirely. In person is the default, with books and videos augmenting, not the other way around.

    If your goal is short range shooting only at a range, you might as well go ahead and get friendly with whatever range you’ll be going to, and you can’t really guarantee you’ll even like anyone there. That’s tangential to what you’re asking, but it is important to keep in mind that you’ll be running across a lot of people at most ranges that are much farther right than you might prefer. So go into it with that awareness, and it won’t be a problem. Don’t let the political divide prevent you from good shooting guidance.

    • Nasan@sopuli.xyzEnglish
      5·
      3 months ago

      I’d recommend tech sights to go with the 10/22. Gets you familiarized with AR/M16 iron sights with a longer sight radius over stock.

      Agreed with in person training. If you feel like you need to look up supplemental training, look up bad shooting habits and do your best not to fall too deep into them. Lots of shooters bring friends or family to shoot for the first time without realizing they have them, then pass it along to the new shooter. Anticipating the shot was a problem for me for years. It took a lot of practice to overcome.

      With the right attitude you can get guidance from almost anyone at the range. From my experience, the better shooters tend to check politics at the door.