Firearm Features: Finding Your Perfect Fit

There are many preliminary questions that should be answered before a new shooter can say “yes” to the right gun.

posted on December 15, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

When novice shooters accompany friends or family members to the range for the first time, they typically fire the guns available to them at that moment. Fit, form and function are not necessarily what’s on the new shooter’s mind. Those important considerations usually come later, when the decision is made to invest in his or own firearm, whether for recreational purposes or personal protection. It’s at that point that an array of questions should be asked and answered regarding which firearm is right for him or her.

Of course, the answer to those questions will be different for everyone. To help with this, champion pro shooter Julie Golob hosts this Smith & Wesson GUNSMARTS video, “Firearm Features for Different Uses,” in which she walks through a series of considerations to help guide a new shooter in the search for the right gun. Some of these factors include discovering the ideal grip—size, angle and texture, for example—and why these are so important. Other dimensions such as profile, weight, length of pull (for long guns), barrel length and sight radius are also explained. Golob continues the discussion with a look at the various types of sights available, starting with iron sights, then progresses to the basics of scopes and other optics like red dots. Finally, Golob delves into one of the most important factors in choosing the right firearm: How easily can the controls be manipulated? Can the trigger and mag release be easily reached? What about racking the slide? And so much more!

There are many preliminary questions beyond these that should be asked and answered before a new shooter can say “yes” to the best gun for him or her. This expanded GUNSMARTS video is an ideal place to start that journey.

For more, visit smith-wesson.com/gunsmarts

Latest

Deering Off Hand Shooting 1
Deering Off Hand Shooting 1

Speed Tip: Learn to Use Your Off-Hand

The more gun manipulation you can do with your off-hand, the better off you’ll be.

New Guns 2025: Kimber CDS9 Classic

The pistols are offered in both an Optics Ready and Night Sight versions.

NRA Instructors Have a Duty To Be Knowledgeable Shooters

When it comes to firearms and training, NRA Certified Instructors are considered the Gold Standard.

Why Bird Shot Doesn’t Cut It for Home Defense

Forget the advice you might have heard about using birdshot for home-defense. It just doesn’t have the penetration you need.

3 Facts Regarding Rifling

Understanding how rifling relates to using the proper ammunition will make any shooter a safer and more effective shooter.

U.S. House Sends Reconciliation Bill to President Trump

Under the bill, NFA tax on suppressors, short-barreled firearms and other arms is reduced to $0.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.