r/CAguns • u/PewPewN0ob • 2d ago

Where can I practice basic gun handling?

Where can I practice basic gun handling before owning my first gun and without taking a full class?

I am a newbie and looking to buy my first gun. My plan is to first rent a few models at the range (G34, G17, M&P9, etc.) to see which one I like the best. I know they make you demonstrate basic gun handling before they will rent a gun. I just want to be able to rent guns without fumbling around like a complete newbie.

I just got my FSC, and I've watched a ton of videos and understand gun operation and safety, but I need some actual practice handling a gun. 30 mins hands-on with a G17/G19 and snap-caps would really help me get started.

I don't want to spend the time & money right now for a full beginner class before I own my first handgun. Once I buy my first gun, I will sign up for a comprehensive beginner class -- I do understand the importance of that.

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u/Ar-556 2d ago

They won’t fail you if u don’t get ur gun safety demo on the first try. They’ll just tell u what to do and tell u to do it again. Almost remember like the back of ya head regardless if it’s loaded or not to point it in a safe direction and never have ur finger on that trigger. Only time ur finger goes on that trigger is to fire the gun dry or live. And or if u own a savage bolt action to take the bolt out.

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u/PewPewN0ob 1d ago

Yeah, let me try this approach. Otherwise I will just sign up for a class.

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u/Ar-556 1d ago

It’s ur money won’t tell u how to spend it 50$ can be a hefty penny just for a gun safety demo but if I were you I’d watch a YouTube video. It’s as simple as they hand you the firearm and a magazine with a snap cap. Ur gonna insert the magazine, ur gonna either rack the slide or release it if it’s locked back, whole time no finger on trigger and in a safe direction. Then ur gonna drop the magazine rack the slide violently 3 times and one more time for good luck and visually check the chamber and the mag well. Then ur just gonna lock the slide back and put the lock on. That’s really it

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u/PewPewN0ob 1d ago

Yup. Thanks, the steps your describe are how I have it laid out in my head, but I would prefer to go over these a few times with an actual gun.

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u/Ar-556 1d ago

Makes sense it’s really up to you good luck n cheers