In a world where empowerment takes center stage, an increasing number of women are embracing the responsibility that comes with self-defense and becoming female gun owners. Over the last two years, nearly two million women have purchased firearms and exercised their right to bear arms.
Whether you already are or are hoping to become part of the growing group of female gun owners, the experienced team at Colorado Handgun Safety can help you on your journey. Let’s break down some expert tips for women looking to safely own and operate a firearm.
Know Your Gun Laws
You may already have a handgun, or you could still be shopping for your new firearm. Regardless of your situation, navigating the realm of firearm ownership can be tricky — especially with frequently changing regulations. From background checks and waiting periods to concealed carry legislation, it’s important to check your local and state laws to stay up-to-date. After all, firearm laws can vary greatly around the United States, and even between the counties and cities within the same states.
Colorado has moderately strict gun laws. Although there is no waiting period for purchasing a firearm, background checks are in place to make sure individuals with certain criminal histories or mental health issues do not acquire firearms. In terms of open and concealed carry, it is generally allowed (with a permit), although local ordinances may have specific regulations that female gun owners should remain compliant with. Overall, it’s important for women to consult the latest regulatory information to remain up-to-date with current state gun laws.
Choose the Right Handgun
Choosing the best handgun is an important step in any female gun owner’s journey. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing the best firearm for you, there are typically some general guidelines for choosing a handgun. A general guideline is to choose a firearm that will allow you to maintain a solid grip. You’ll want to find a gun that fits your body — whether that’s a smaller gun or a heavyweight gun that reduces recoil.
The use-case of your gun is also a major consideration for most women. For example, if you’re planning to purchase a firearm for home defense, you might consider a long gun, as they’re more terminally effective and easier to shoot. If you’re interested in concealed carry, your method of carrying will play a major factor in what gun you should select.
Develop Your Skills
Now that you have your firearm, it’s time to begin developing your skills. At Colorado Handgun Safety, we recommend taking a gun safety course to become familiar with the basics. When you attend a gun safety course, you can expect to learn more about the components of a gun, how to safely handle a firearm, as well as various holding and shooting positions. Instructors also provide an overview of basic firearm laws and share more about the four core rules of being a safe gun owner.
You also might consider attending a range to further develop your shooting skills and become more comfortable with your firearm. After all, the range provides a safe environment to actively apply your marksmanship! Make sure you prepare your gun before arriving at the range and expect to wear eye and ear protection for your safety. Check local shooting range websites to make sure you remain in compliance.
Store Your Gun Safely
Storing your gun safely is important for everyone, especially for women, who may have families and other unique considerations. The basics include storing your gun unloaded, uncocked, and securely locked out of reach or sight. You should also consider storing any ammunition you have in a secondary location. You want to keep your gun away from any valuables, as well as under your bed, mattress, or any unlocked areas. Today, there are plenty of options to keep your guns secure, including biometric safes or other high-tech storage systems and cases.
Be a Response Female Gun Owner With Colorado Handgun Safety
Owning a firearm is a major responsibility, and perhaps even a necessity, for the American woman. When it comes to owning a firearm responsibly, you want the best training possible to ensure you’re prepared for every situation. From NRA-certified gun safety classes to concealed-carry courses, the knowledgeable instructors at Colorado Handgun Safety will walk you through what you need to know about your firearm, no matter if you’re a first-time female gun owner or a seasoned shooter.
Schedule a class today to see why Colorado Handgun Safety is Colorado’s best firearm training center, and why it’s trusted by thousands of Americans every year.
