Where would you get "officially recognized" training if you've never been in the military or law enforcement? I've been interested in target shooting for a while, but have absolutely no idea where to start or how I could possibly afford it.
As others have said, go with someone who will let you shoot for free and try a few different types of guns and calibers.
Do not go to a gun store and let some counter guy tell you what you need.
If you ever want to purchase a gun, you should have already fired one just like it and know this is exactly what you want before you buy.
OK, that said please allow me to give you a few gun safety tips.
First and foremost don't shoot with unsafe people. No drinking or other fun stuff.
Never allow someone to point a weapon at you or anywhere near you or put their finger on the trigger unless their gun is pointed down range at the intended target.
Always stand behind the person shooting. In other words pay attention at all times to others safety techniques and leave if anyone does something unsafe.
Now when you hold a gun, never point it in any direction that you would not have an issue if it went off. At the ground, down range, any safe direction.
THERE IS NEVER SUCH A THING AS AN UNLOADED GUN
If you think like this you will stay alive.
NEVER PUT YOUR FINGER INSIDE THE TRIGGER GUARD OR ON THE TRIGGER UNLESS YOU INTEND TO FIRE YOUR WEAPON IN THE NEXT FEW SECONDS AND THE GUN IS POINTED AT WHAT YOU INTEND TO SHOOT AND NO WHERE ELSE EVER.
Think about this, if you never point a gun in an unsafe direction and never put your finger on the trigger until you are ready to fire, you will not have a misfire which is very dangerous to you and others.
If you see people pointing weapons in unsafe directions, walking around with their finger on the trigger or inside the trigger guard either get them to stop or just leave.
People with bad gun handling habits will not listen to you, just leave. Most likely they will say something to the effect, "It's not loaded". :ignore:
New people are most likely going to be safety conscience, it's the "experts" that many times are too confident and become dangerous especially if alcohol is involved.
When you handle a gun, keep your trigger finger straight and never curled around the trigger or inside the trigger guard. I know I already said this before but if you look around at others with their finger straight, you can realise they have had a little safety training and are taking this serious.
Don't let them tell you, "The safety is on".
Once you get some experience, it can be very fun and addicting. :yes:
