What is a Bolt Action?

There is a ton of terminology which may be alien to first-time gun buyers, and that’s ok.  When referring to a firearm, the action is the group of mechanical parts which load, fire, unload, and eject the rounds. So, in a bolt action rifle, the action is controlled by a bolt. This bolt generally has a small handle attached(often to the right side of the firearm). This handled bolt allows manual operation of the firearm. So, for a bolt action rifle, you load the weapon, fire, and then open the bolt to eject the spent shell. After that, you close the bolt to load another round into the chamber.

What is it for?

Now, if you understand how the firearm works, it may raise some questions. What is this type of rifle for? It’s true that at one point in history, the bolt action rifle was the dominant military firearm. It’s also true that modern semi-automatic firearms have greatly improved in rate of fire. So then why? There are three main reasons people purchase their first bolt action rifle.

The first reason is hunting. This rifle type is the most common hunting rifle, as mentioned above. The action of a quality bolt action rifle can be extremely precise, giving a more accurate firearm. For most situations, you shouldn’t need to rapidly fire in a hunting situation. Rather, you want a powerful and accurate firearm, capable of felling an animal with one well-placed shot.

The second reason is long range shooting. Whether for military, law enforcement, or sport shooting, the bolt action rifle with a scope remains a popular choice. In all reality, the same characteristics which make it feel suited for hunting also apply here. A majority of sniper rifles utilize a bolt action.

The third reason is owning a piece of history. Sometimes it’s ok to like something just because it’s fun or cool, and that is a valid reason to have something. Many people interested in a specific area of history, such as World War One, may purchase a bolt action rifle associated with that conflict simply because of the historical significance. Others engage in historical reenactments, and put together entire, period-appropriate gear and clothing.

So How do I Pick One?

Try out a bunch.

Alright, that may be a lame answer. The first key, though, is to establish what you’re looking for. Are you a hunter? Looking to engage in long range sport shooting? Wanting to put together a kit for a reenactment organization? Determining why you want this type of firearm will make narrowing down your choices easier.

Once you have your purpose in mind, the next step is to set up a budget. After all, it does no good to be looking at a $1500 dollar rifle when you only have $500 to spend.

After that, get to the range! It’s always a good idea to test out a weapon before you buy it. Small differences in aesthetics can make all the difference in how much you like a firearm.

For all your firearms needs, head over to Spring Guns and Ammo. With 3 convenient locations, and a team of qualified professionals, we’re ready to help you purchase whatever firearms meet your needs!

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One of the most common questions asked after purchasing a firearm is “what type of holster should I buy?” Whether you are a long-time expert or a concealed carry novice, finding the right gun holsters for women can be an interesting process. Not only do you need a holster that will last you for years, but you also need to safely protect your trigger guard and easily access your firearm.

Here are the 5 Best Gun Holster Styles for Women.

• Inside the Waistband Holster
• Outside the Waistband Holster
• Thigh Holster
• Belly Band Holster
• Corset Holster

If you’ve decided to carry concealed and have found the best firearm for you, the next logical step to take is deciding on the type of holster you will need. Understanding the difference between gun holsters can help you make an informed decision about what type you need and the best way to conceal carry.

Inside the Waistband Holster (IWB)

The Inside the Waistband Holster is one of the most popular options. Not only does an IWB allows you to safely carry your firearm, but it also has the added bonus of being comfortable and easy to conceal. These holsters can be attached to a gun belt and will remain in place and secured all day long.

Outside the Waistband Holsters (OWB)

Equally as common as the IWB, an Outside the Waistband gun holster for women is a highly favored and popular option. They are worn outside the gun belt and are a great option for a compact firearm. Coupled with a jacket or cardigan, you can easily conceal it under your shirt and you’re good to go.

Thigh Holster for Women

Compared to a waistband holster, a thigh holster can be a great option if you prefer wearing skirts or dresses. It allows you to conceal and carry exceptionally well, while still being comfortable. When worn correctly, thigh holsters can go unseen. In addition to easy concealability, most thigh gun holsters are adjustable and give you the option of carrying outside or inside the thigh.

Belly Band Holsters for Women

Belly Band Holsters are very versatile and great for women who can’t or don’t want to wear a gun belt. They are a popular and comfortable way to effectively conceal a firearm. These holsters work great with many clothing options and sit across your abdomen. Though some may argue that this style limits accessibility, a well-designed belly band holster is adjustable and gives you the versatility of wearing it higher or lower on your abdomen.

Corset Holster for Women

In comparison, a cousin to the belly band is the corset holster. These gun holsters are perfect for women who want the safety of carrying with the structural benefits of shapewear. Not only are they designed to hug your curves, but corset holsters come in a variety of styles for you to choose from and can be a flattering alternative to traditional holsters.

Ready to Break-In Your New Holster?

Choosing the best gun holster style for women takes some thoughtful consideration and a bit of trial and error. Looking for a place to break in your new holster? Check out one of our SGA Women’s Events. We are currently hosting monthly Girl & a Gun Women’s Shooting League events “Girl’s Night Out” and “Breakfast and Bullets” at both our SGA Spring, TX and SGA Crosby, TX locations. Contact us today about an event or purchasing your next firearm.

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1. Affordable
2. Home defense
3. Reliable
4. Recreational use
5. Easy maintenance
6. Versatile

Affordable

First and foremost, if you’re looking to buy a gun, A shotgun is going to be one of your most affordable options out there. Shotguns can still be affordable from brands such as Remmington, Mossberg, Browning, and others. You should buy a shotgun should you want an affordable gun that can deal with just about every situation. Ammo is also relatively cheap and comes in multiple “gauges” to fit whatever type of shotgun you buy. 

Home defense

You should buy a shotgun if you’re looking for a weapon for home defense. Since shotguns come in different sizes and can be highly customizable, they are perfect for home defense. You have the option of using either non-lethal rounds, birdshot, buckshot, and slugs to take down anyone that tries to enter your home. Although you can’t conceal carry your shotgun, they still make great weapons for protecting your home. Shotguns are on just about every survival guide and that’s because of their simple design and effectiveness at dropping bad guys. 

In addition, there are multiple providers that make specific rounds of ammunition for home defense. When you buy a shotgun, consult with your local gun shop on the best ammo for your needs. You may not want to choose too powerful of ammunition if you don’t want it to go through walls. Take your gun to the shooting range to get a feel for what’s right for you.

Reliable

Shotguns have been used for hundreds of years. They have been mainstays for hunting, self-defense, and recreational shooting. Whether you choose a pump, semi-automatic, or double-barrel shotgun, you will always have a reliable tool to use at your disposal. This is also why you can find so many used models on the market. With proper maintenance, shotguns can last a lifetime, and can easily be handed down to children or family members. Buying your first shotgun may be the only shotgun you ever need because of how routinely robust most models are. Also, you can bring your gun to the local gunsmith should anything go wrong that you can’t fix.

Recreational Use

One of our favorite reasons to buy a shotgun is so you can shoot clay targets. Ask almost any hunter, and they’ll tell you that this is one of their favorite pastimes. Clay target shooting, or “shooting skeet”, is a fantastic hobby and can be fun for the newbie or pro. If you have the land, clay targets are relatively cheap and a family member can throw them in the sky for you. If you’re looking for a fun hobby, buying a shotgun may be the right choice for you.

Easy maintenance

Shotguns are fairly easy to clean and can be disassembled in a matter of minutes. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, most shotguns can be disassembled by simply watching a YouTube video. Can also visit your local gunsmith for an even more thorough cleaning or if you’re under a time crunch. This is an important but often undervalued reason to buy a shotgun.

Versatile

A shotgun can be used for almost anything. Whether you want to engage in a new hobby, go hunting, or use this tool for home defense, a shotgun can do it all. There are multiple options to choose from and multiple sizes of ammo that are perfect for your situation. If you are looking to buy a gun for the first time, a shotgun is a perfect tool to learn and grow with. 

Considering whether you want to buy a shotgun or not? Have you checked to make sure you will pass the background check? Spring Guns and Ammo can help you select the perfect gun for your needs. Whether you’re a pro or a first-time buyer, we’ll help walk you through the process of owning a firearm and what gun is best for you. Contact us today and find out how we can help you!

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Let’s go over the basics of gun safety laid out by Gunsweek: 

1. All guns are loaded. No matter if you are at home, on a range, or at a competition. Treat all guns, in all situations, as if they are loaded.
2. Never point your gun at something you do not intend to destroy. This includes your hand and legs. This will take practice to instill so move with care always.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you have your sights on the target. Again, this will take practice to achieve in high-stress situations. It is incumbent upon a new gun owner to practice this, especially if they plan on using this gun for self-defense purposes.
4. Identify your target and know what is behind it. 

Here is a video that breaks it down even further:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2Vrc2R1oGU

You carry a lot of responsibility

Many have purchased a new gun thinking only to use it for home defense or to carry it legally. You may have thought, “I’m the only one who will see this gun, and it affects only me.” This just isn’t true. Whether you plan on keeping it locked in a gun safe in your home or carrying it with you, a gun affects everyone that you come into contact with. It is important that you understand that securely storing (in-home or on your body) is of utmost importance. Use a secure holster to properly carry your weapon and prevent a misfire. As a new gun owner, you may feel a sense of power every time you hold that gun. Respect that power. You have a responsibility to do your best to prevent accidents from happening. Also, you have a responsibility to not act carelessly. Aim to be an ambassador of the gun community. Training is going to be your best tool in getting more comfortable with that responsibility.

Know your legal carry laws

New gun owners need to consider the state’s laws surrounding concealed and open carry. Some states are more relaxed than others, and some states disavow open carry laws. You need to do your research before taking your gun anywhere. You also need to research how to inform the police if you have a firearm on you. Don’t be caught breaking the law, as this can result in fines, jail time, or stiff penalties.

Practice, practice, practice

As a new gun owner, your firearm may feel awkward and cumbersome in your hands. This will only ease with practice, so get out to the range and start shooting! Learn how to take your gun apart and put it back together. Learn how to properly look down your sights and invest in some classes to help you with home defense. Doing all these things can help you, should an emergency situation ever arrive. The only way to get better at something is to train at it, and it is absolutely true with guns. Even more so, if you are handling pistols, as they can trip up even some of the most experienced gun owners.

Enjoy your new hobby and join a group 

Shooting guns can be fun, like really fun. Joining something like a gun club can help you get better at shooting and have fun with friends. You’ll be exposed to different types of guns and safety techniques to become a better gun owner. Plus, you’ll have a lot of guidance to pull from in making your next gun purchase! Turn your passion into a hobby by joining a community that fits your needs. 

Thinking about purchasing a gun but don’t know where to start? Spring Guns and Ammo has experts, guns, and training courses designed to empower the new gun owner. Contact us today to see how we can help make you a new gun owner. Check out our shooting range as well!

The post New Gun Owners Guide to Owning a Firearm appeared first on Spring Guns & Ammo.

Personal & Home Defense

Arguably the most effective reason to buy a gun, arming yourself against an intruder is only going to help your family. You have a right to defend yourself, and a gun is your best option to do that. To buy a gun is to equip yourself with the most effective tool of defense no matter where you are. Also, when defending yourself or your loved ones, you want that fight to be so lopsided in your favor. You don’t want to have to rely on your strengths alone. You should buy a gun if you want the most effective tool to stop criminals. However, a gun is not a toy. It is a tool – a very powerful tool that should be respected. If you are weighing the reasons to buy a gun, make sure you invest in some training to help you. Practicing at a range drawing your weapon and firing without hesitating gives you confidence in an emergency situation.

In addition, criminals themselves are not going to stop carrying guns. So why should you? Instead, familiarize yourself with firearms to the point that you can defend yourself if needed. Importantly, if you are smaller or elderly your only possibility of defending yourself may be a gun. If you have ever been worried about someone breaking into your home, a gun can put an end to those worries.

Exercise your rights

The right to bear arms is guaranteed in the Second Amendment, so why not use them? If you are on the fence about buying a gun, remember that this is a right established long before you were around. To exercise this right is to be American. Even if you never plan on owning a gun, just trying one out is honoring those who came before you. You may even find out that you like it!

Hunting

One of the many reasons to buy a gun, hunting is a great hobby to get into. it’s often a family tradition that is passed down year after year. It can be a great way to provide for your family and gives you respect for nature. When you follow hunting regulations for your state, you are preserving wildlife and contributing to it. You are taking an active part in conservation efforts. Wild game can also be healthier for you as well!

Recreational activities

Getting into competitive shooting can be a lot of fun! Training yourself to draw faster and faster and hit more targets can be a tough challenge. One reason to buy a gun is that it opens up a huge array of competitions to compete in. You’ll make new friends and meet different people from all walks of life. Also, competitive shooting gives out prizes and trophies should you win. Consider buying a gun if you like a challenge!

Lifetime hobby

There are many reasons to buy a gun, but one of our favorites is that you get to join the gun community. Shooting at a range, teaching your kids, or going to your local gun store is going to make you meet people all with a common interest. You’ll collect more guns over the years and be able to hand them down to your children. In addition, you’ll also make some lifetime friends that you only would have met from buying a gun. 

Looking to buy your first gun, but don’t know where to turn? Spring Guns and Ammo can walk you through the process of new gun ownership. We can help train and give you the confidence to safely own a firearm. Contact us today and find out how we can help you.

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Misconceptions about the best guns for women

• What is the gun going to be used for?

Oftentimes, new owners plan on buying guns for self-defense. Except, self-defense looks different to every person. Are you buying this gun to conceal carry? Are you buying this gun for home defense? How often do you want to clean your gun? Are you willing to learn components of a gun? These are all factors to consider when purchasing any gun, regardless of sex. Keep that in mind while doing your research. If you are looking for that first gun that can be your home defense and conceal carry, then a pistol is the correct choice for you. Also, CCW laws (concealed carry) vary from state to state so make sure you know the laws in your state. Make sure to have a proper holster on you at all times.

• A smaller gun means less recoil

Although a small gun may look less intimidating, they often become a more powerful punch. This is due to the gun having a shorter barrel and less weight. When that small gun fires, the power has to be displaced somewhere, usually in recoil. If you are using a gun for self-defense you will always be balancing size vs. recoil. A larger gun can help you control the “kick” of the gun and give you more control when firing more shots. Again, a larger gun is maybe better for those who are intimidated by the recoil of the gun. In addition, a larger gun allows you to have a better grip which helps you reduce the recoil. In an emergency situation that grip can keep you locked onto your target.

• You don’t need to test a gun in person

It may be tempting to order a gun online without ever actually holding it. However, if you are a new gun owner, we do not endorse this. The best gun for you will be the one you feel most comfortable with. That means you need to make sure you can firmly grip the gun, handle the recoil, rack the slide, etc. You can test multiple guns at a shooting range or join a pistol gun club for new beginners.

For the purposes of this article, we are going to be operating under the assumption that you need a gun for self and home defense purposes. You want to conceal carry this gun, and have your gun be relatively easy to shoot. Without further ado, here are the 5 best guns for women.

Glock 43

Based on over 4000 surveys taken by The Well Armed Women, the Glock 43 ranks at the top for its reliability and stopping power of a 9mm. A favorite of law enforcement, the Glock brand is synonymous with utility and simple design. It carries seven rounds fully chambered and gives little recoil. If you were to buy only one gun for the rest of your life, this is it. In addition, this gun is fairly easy to clean and great for new gun owners. The downsides to this gun is that it is not as compact as some others on the list, and you may have to carry it in your purse. Make no mistake, it’s one of the best guns for women. 

Sig P365

Looking for a gun that you can wear with almost any outfit? The Sig P365 gives  you ten rounds to defend yourself with (there are extended clips you can buy as well), and is much more compact than the Glock. The added weight helps negate some of the recoils, although it does still have a kick. GunDigest also recommends the Sig P365 as one of the best guns for women because it’s easy to keep clean and maintain. It is also a 9mm. 

Mossberg MC1-sc

Relatively new, the Mossberg MC1-sc is still a force to be reckoned with. A 9mm with clear magazines, this gun has a nice grip that feels latched to your fingers. It is heavier than the Glock 43 but is still more compact. Users report feeling that the gun sits well in their hands. Mossberg has made a name for themselves with their shotguns, and they’ve doubled down on that quality with this pistol. It can hold seven rounds and comes with see-through magazines.

Smith & Wesson MP Shield

Found on about every home defense list, this pistol comes from a brand known throughout America for making firearms. Fully loaded, this gun can carry nine rounds and is a 9mm. Many report low recoil with this gun. It’s a great first buy if you are scared to shoot, but are dedicated to practicing. Not only can it be a good gun to buy for those with weaker hand strength, but it can be a great gun to teach teenagers as well. It is easily concealable and consistently ranked as one of the best guns for women.

Smith & Wesson 340 PD

We included a revolver on this list because of its simplicity. They are fairly easy to clean and upkeep. Also, should a misfire happen, all you need to do is keep pulling the trigger. This gun is not for the faint of heart as it holds .357 rounds, and is compact. If you want ultra stopping power in a small package this is the gun for you. It also has a ten-pound trigger pull, meaning it takes a lot more force to actually pull the trigger. Neat safety features such as that help protect you from a misfire while concealed carrying.

What Kind of Holster Should You Buy?

Finding the best gun holster to match your firearm is an important part of the gun buying process. Not only do you need a gun holster that will last you for years to come, but you also need to easily access your firearm. From Belly Bands to Thigh Holsters, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the 5 best options for women. Check out our article here.

Wanting to try some of these guns in person? Want to talk to someone about what might be right for you? At Spring Guns and Ammo we have the guns and experts to help you feel safe when you pick up a gun. Contact us today to see about buying your first gun or check out our firing range for practice.

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