View Full Version : Plan to become a gun owner?
Stevedore
12-19-2019, 12:21pm
I've never been a "gun person", but as I get older I worry more about break-ins, home invasions, etc., so I've been thinking that a gun of some sort in the house might give us some peace of mind. We live in an apparently safe area, but it's still something I think about.
My inclination is to go to a local gun range, where they give lessons, sell guns, & offer range time, & follow their recommendations regarding a home defense weapon purchase & training. My concern is that they may try to sell me something bigger, more powerful, & more $$ than I really need; I would have no way of knowing if this were the case.
The place I'm considering is RTSP in Randolph, NJ (https://www.rtsponline.com). They also have a location in Union, NJ.
In the admittedly unlikely event that anyone has experience with RTSP specifically, or any other thoughts on the matter, I'd appreciate hearing about it.
Thanks! :cert:
Datawiz
12-19-2019, 12:26pm
I'm considering this for myself soon too. :yesnod:
Ol Timer
12-19-2019, 12:29pm
A good friend is a former LEO and consults large venues about security. He highly recommends a 12 gauge shotgun for home defense.
I may have alternative items as well.
6spdC6
12-19-2019, 12:38pm
I've never been a "gun person", but as I get older I worry more about break-ins, home invasions, etc., so I've been thinking that a gun of some sort in the house might give us some peace of mind. We live in an apparently safe area, but it's still something I think about.
My inclination is to go to a local gun range, where they give lessons, sell guns, & offer range time, & follow their recommendations regarding a home defense weapon purchase & training. My concern is that they may try to sell me something bigger, more powerful, & more $$ than I really need; I would have no way of knowing if this were the case.
The place I'm considering is RTSP in Randolph, NJ (https://www.rtsponline.com). They also have a location in Union, NJ.
In the admittedly unlikely event that anyone has experience with RTSP specifically, or any other thoughts on the matter, I'd appreciate hearing about it.
Thanks! :cert:
As a former NRA range officer & instructor I would say your on the right track looking to get instructions.
NJ has some realy stupid/severe gun laws so knowing what the local view on
guns is very important.
You have to consider where your going to be armed, your house or perhaps out of the house. Out of the house in NJ from what I see can be quite difficult. As far as inside the house it sounds like a 20 gauge short shot gun with full butt stock might be in order as from what I see its quite a urban area and as a shooter your legally responsible for everything you fire.
Its to early to realy give "BUY This Advice'' but if thinking of a handgun for a house gun your better learning on a 22 and then progressing to a larger caliber. Twenty two ammo is much cheaper and with a hand gun you will have to fire a lot to be proficient.
Go to a range ask questions shoot different guns and do not let anyone talk you into something that is not right for you! As far as asking cops I have found out many/most cops the gun is just part of the uniform and they do not know that much about guns!
Good luck
z06psi
12-19-2019, 12:39pm
icnlt
sublime1996525
12-19-2019, 12:53pm
I agree with above. You are on the right track in wanting range time and training to go with firearm ownership. Most legit gun stores will not try and upsale you. Most of them, if they are good, will actually try to downsale you.
Cybercowboy
12-19-2019, 1:07pm
If you were in a state with normal sane gun laws I'd have several recommendations for you but yeah, NJ. Probably should just go with a shotgun. Super easy to shoot, you can get shells that won't penetrate more than a single wall (if even that) but will definitely ruin a bad guy's day. The downside is that you will be limited in how many rounds the shotgun can hold. But that's not much of a downside because if you can't do the job with five shots or so, it's probably over anyway. One way or the other.
The good news is shotguns are pretty cheap compared to other options.
I agree with above. You are on the right track in wanting range time and training to go with firearm ownership. Most legit gun stores will not try and upsale you. Most of them, if they are good, will actually try to downsale you.
*up sell
*down sell
F'cking millennials. :rolleyes:
:cheers:
Aerovette
12-19-2019, 2:30pm
I could have written that original post myself...well except for the Jersey part.
The more I see liberals getting out of hand, and police being run off the force, the more I realize I'll need my own crime prevention and method of sentencing the guilty.
Rodnok1
12-19-2019, 2:33pm
Shotgun a very good option, cheap and easy to use. It has the upside of not killing the neighbors also.
mrvette
12-19-2019, 3:21pm
Shotgun a very good option, cheap and easy to use. It has the upside of not killing the neighbors also.
UNLESS the neighbor HOOD invades your house.....
:issues::lol:
I've never been a "gun person", but as I get older I worry more about break-ins, home invasions, etc., so I've been thinking that a gun of some sort in the house might give us some peace of mind. We live in an apparently safe area, but it's still something I think about.
My inclination is to go to a local gun range, where they give lessons, sell guns, & offer range time, & follow their recommendations regarding a home defense weapon purchase & training. My concern is that they may try to sell me something bigger, more powerful, & more $$ than I really need; I would have no way of knowing if this were the case.
The place I'm considering is RTSP in Randolph, NJ (https://www.rtsponline.com). They also have a location in Union, NJ.
In the admittedly unlikely event that anyone has experience with RTSP specifically, or any other thoughts on the matter, I'd appreciate hearing about it.
Thanks! :cert:
I was pretty into target shooting with .22 caliber rifles when I was a younger man. I promised the wife that I wouldn't keep a firearm in the house when the kids were here, so I have not actually shot a gun in nearly 30 years. The youngest child moved out in July, so I have been thinking of getting back into it. The RTSP is Union is more or less across the street from the liquor store I go to regularly.
The thing about RTSP is that you can go and rent pretty much any gun they have, and fire it, but they will not rent to a single person unless you already have your FID card, you must have a buddy to rent and shoot if you don't have an FID card (I currently do not). Let me know if you want to buddy up and make a visit to Union RTSP.
I would probably have a shotgun for home, but the wife doesn't like the idea of it being easily accessible...so I have a pistol safe next to the bed.
Little easier to hide.
GentleBen
12-19-2019, 3:53pm
If you were in a state with normal sane gun laws I'd have several recommendations for you but yeah, NJ. Probably should just go with a shotgun. Super easy to shoot, you can get shells that won't penetrate more than a single wall (if even that) but will definitely ruin a bad guy's day. The downside is that you will be limited in how many rounds the shotgun can hold. But that's not much of a downside because if you can't do the job with five shots or so, it's probably over anyway. One way or the other.
The good news is shotguns are pretty cheap compared to other options.
A Kel-Tec shotgun will hold 15 rounds of 2 3/4" 12 gauge rounds. I loved mine until an unfortunate boating accident on the Potomac River this summer cost me mine.
Cybercowboy
12-19-2019, 4:00pm
A Kel-Tec shotgun will hold 15 rounds of 2 3/4" 12 gauge rounds. I loved mine until an unfortunate boating accident on the Potomac River this summer cost me mine.
Well yeah but we are talking New Jersey, are those sorts of shotguns even legal there? And I think that's the first time I've seen optics of any kind on a shotgun. :lol:
If you were in a state with normal sane gun laws I'd have several recommendations for you but yeah, NJ. Probably should just go with a shotgun. Super easy to shoot, you can get shells that won't penetrate more than a single wall (if even that) but will definitely ruin a bad guy's day. The downside is that you will be limited in how many rounds the shotgun can hold. But that's not much of a downside because if you can't do the job with five shots or so, it's probably over anyway. One way or the other.
The good news is shotguns are pretty cheap compared to other options.
I'm thinking OP can't go wrong with a street sweeper
http://www.lisa-legalinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Streetsweeper170713.jpg
guns?! um, yeah, i might know a thing or two about those things.
good advice above considering your specifics.
A Kel-Tec shotgun will hold 15 rounds of 2 3/4" 12 gauge rounds. I loved mine until an unfortunate boating accident on the Potomac River this summer cost me mine.
I have 2 Mossies 12G pumps at my house a 9 shot tube magazine feed 18'' barrel and a ten shot with a detachable box mag (10 is NY Law) Both of them have full butt stocks. Both are loaded to fire first 5 00 buck and the rest slugs. More ammo is close by + a couple handguns!
As we live rural have no neighbors, no cell service, no kids just wife and I and the potential of LEOs if we could make call of about 25 minuets wait. Bears are also a consideration so that is why my guns are loaded that way.
Well yeah but we are talking New Jersey, are those sorts of shotguns even legal there? And I think that's the first time I've seen optics of any kind on a shotgun. :lol:
Probably not.
In New Jersey, it is illegal to possess any magazine that is capable of accepting more than 10 rounds of ammunition for semi-automatic pistols or rifles, or 6 rounds for semi-automatic shotguns that accept detachable magazines.
I'm considering this for myself soon too. :yesnod:
Ask some of your car buddies if they have any ideas. Anyone would be happy to take you to the range and do some basic shooting.
I'd suggest you go take a state approved class and then you can apply for your CCP if you feel like it.
MadInNc
12-19-2019, 4:34pm
I was pretty into target shooting with .22 caliber rifles when I was a younger man. I promised the wife that I wouldn't keep a firearm in the house when the kids were here, so I have not actually shot a gun in nearly 30 years. The youngest child moved out in July, so I have been thinking of getting back into it. The RTSP is Union is more or less across the street from the liquor store I go to regularly.
The thing about RTSP is that you can go and rent pretty much any gun they have, and fire it, but they will not rent to a single person unless you already have your FID card, you must have a buddy to rent and shoot if you don't have an FID card (I currently do not). Let me know if you want to buddy up and make a visit to Union RTSP.
Gun range then ——-> liquor store Moe.
Gun range then ——-> liquor store Moe.
What? I'm an excellent shot, now hold my beer and watch this!
MadInNc
12-19-2019, 4:57pm
What? I'm an excellent shot, now hold my beer and watch this!
I bet... how about a shot of Tequilla?
Gun range then ——-> liquor store Moe.
I disagree. Look, if you plan on shooting drunk in the future, then you should learn drunk and practice drunk, so that your training matches the real world conditions you expect when it matters.
:dance:
:leaving:
I bet... how about a shot of Tequilla?
I could really use a good ass kicking, I'll be perfectly honest with you . . .
I disagree. Look, if you plan on shooting drunk in the future, then you should learn drunk and practice drunk, so that your training matches the real world conditions you expect when it matters.
:dance:
:leaving:
Now this man, knows what he is talking about! If some asshole breaks into my house in the middle of the night, I'm going to need to know how to handle a firearm when piss drunk!
RED-85-Z51
12-19-2019, 5:31pm
Ranges are fun if the range officer isnt a dickhead...
Mr.."no rapid fire on the range" bastard...
C3C7NIC
12-19-2019, 5:41pm
Hubs is LEO, was SWAT commander until recently.
Just now, as I type this, there is breaking news of shots fired in our largest shopping mall with people barricaded.
All that to say, we BOTH carry everywhere we go. I won't ever be huddled in a corner without the ability to defend myself against a gunman etc. So we don't just have protection in our home, but on our body everywhere we can legally CC.
Educate yourself and become very comfortable with whatever gun you choose to use and for God sake, keep it out out of the hands of kids or the wrong people.
RED-85-Z51
12-19-2019, 5:43pm
I bought my first gun about 2 years ago. A Remington R1 1911. It was absolute garbage, a jam o matic. I learned the ins and outs of the platform, studied it, noted what i felt would fix it..did some filing, polishing, some parts swapping, custom fitting of parts. Now i have a dead nuts reliable 1911 that eats any ammo, very low recoil and i can reliably hit center mass on a torso target from well over 100ft away...very fun gun.
Then i got into AR platform, bought a used colt m16 upper and put it on an Aero Stripped lower i built, also dead reliable. Wanted to feel up other calibers so i got a box of stripped lowers, and uppers in 5.56 7", 300blk 10", 6.5 grendel 24", 458 socom 20" and 50beowulf 20". Built them all...great guns. I only kept the 458 and 50cal along with the 5.56 carbine...the others i let go of, just wasnt a fan.
Now im into Turkish CZ clones...great values to be had from Sarzilmaz right now
MadInNc
12-19-2019, 6:20pm
Hubs is LEO, was SWAT commander until recently.
Just now, as I type this, there is breaking news of shots fired in our largest shopping mall with people barricaded.
All that to say, we BOTH carry everywhere we go. I won't ever be huddled in a corner without the ability to defend myself against a gunman etc. So we don't just have protection in our home, but on our body everywhere we can legally CC.
Educate yourself and become very comfortable with whatever gun you choose to use and for God sake, keep it out out of the hands of kids or the wrong people.
I carry. At home I have hidden gun safes in shelves, books and other strategically placed locations. 1 has a Kimber Target Eclipse, 1 with Glock 17. Both full stopping power:seasix:
99 pewtercoupe
12-19-2019, 6:38pm
At home, 12 ga Benelli pump as the first go to in the bedroom when things go bump in the night. A .40 S&W is also within reach. When we lived in Illinois I had a concealed carry permit but have been lax about getting a Florida permit since we moved here. Need to add it to my to do list
BADRACR1
12-19-2019, 7:27pm
Mossberg 500 19" pump 12 gauge with 00 buckshot. Also in various spots a Ruger SR22, an SR9c, and an SR1911cmd. Plus I carry everywhere except inside work. Any other time I never have one out of reach. Nightstand while in bed, end table while watching tv, kitchen counter while cooking, and yes, even when I take a shower on the sink under my towel.
A shotgun is generally considered the best choice for home defense. Buckshot takes little chance in missing a target and may even get two at the same time. Plus the sound of a pump shotgun being racked will usually be enough of a deterrent by itself to encourage the intruder to reevaluate his choice. Get some training in the use of one if it's your choice.
If you would rather have a pistol go first to somewhere like Sportsman's, Academy, or a well stocked firearms store. Handle all you can and get the one that feels best in your hand. If you don't like it you won't like shooting it. Like stated above a .22 is the best to practice with. Cheap and gets you used to the mechanics. Move up to what feels comfortable after that. Get some training on models and their various pros and cons.
If you choose semi-autos make sure it is one that you and your wife can work the slide without difficulty. A smaller firearm is easier to conceal but a larger frame generally has less recoil. Same with materials. Plastic or alloy pieces will be lighter but heavier models will have less recoil and be easier to stay on point with follow up shots. Training classes will help you be more at ease, build confidence, and help you enjoy shooting.
Oh, did I mention training classes? And practice. Practice a lot! The more time you put into it the better and more natural you will become with it. If a time comes when you should have to need it better results will be achieved and the actions will be more natural without having to think about what you are doing the more you practice.
Don't stress the first choice you make on a pistol. After all, it's just the first one. Most likely more will follow. Get a good safe, too. Firearms are expensive and you are responsible for each bullet they fire. Keep a record of serial numbers in case of loss. A good personal insurance policy isn't a bad idea, either.
Above all, enjoy and be safe. I've been shooting most of my life. Started my kids and grandkids when I thought they were ready. :BADRACR1:
JRD77VET
12-19-2019, 7:49pm
First and most important, if you decide to get a firearm, will you be able to fire it without hesitation ( after identifying your target of course) to protect yourself and loved ones?
You do NOT have to answer that outloud or in print here. It is something you have to be completely honest with yourself about. The reason being if you hesitate, it possible the bad person could get the firearm from you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Very good idea to get proper training right from the start. That way you won't have to unlearn bad habits you've picked up.
When you go to the shop of your choosing, ask if they recommend a shotgun or a handgun for you.
Plenty of good pumps (shotgun) out there. As recommended by others, a short barrel and full stock.
If they recommend a handgun, I suggest a double action revolver in .357 magnum. By purchasing a .357, it will allow you shoot .38 special for practice. ( the difference is case length, perfectly acceptable to use either in a .357 magnum. )
I've recommended manual operating firearms instead of semi autos. That way if they fail to fire, you can either pump another round in the shotgun or squeeze the trigger on the double action revolver.
markids77
12-19-2019, 8:30pm
I'm thinking OP can't go wrong with a street sweeper
http://www.lisa-legalinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Streetsweeper170713.jpg
Nope. No folding stocks, foreign made shottys which hold 10 or more rounds, 18 inch barrel minimum and probably a bunch more shit we don't worry about here in GA. I would suggest the OP rent a Mossberg 20 ga youth pump gun and see if he/she is comfortable using that.
If you live in New Jersey and decide to go the handgun route, I recommend you use either Critical Defense or Federal EFMJ ammunition. They are not considered to be “hollow point” ammunition, but both are great defense rounds.
sublime1996525
12-19-2019, 8:52pm
*up sell
*down sell
F'cking millennials. :rolleyes:
:cheers:
Hahaha wow. It was a rough work day. And it’s up-sell and down-sell :P
Some very good recommendations here. As previously stated, get very familiar with the weapon you intend to carry or use. Go to the range often, the more comfortable you are with handling it, the better you will be if the shit hits the fan. The more you practice, the more the muscle memory will take over when needed.
Some ranges will not let you quick draw a loaded weapon for obvious reasons, practice at home, unloaded of course. Without that confidence in drawing, you could be more of a detriment to yourself and others around you.
Good luck with whatever direction you go in, and weapon safety is most paramount.
Oh "you'll shoot your eye out".
:D
RED-85-Z51
12-19-2019, 11:14pm
First and most important, if you decide to get a firearm, will you be able to fire it without hesitation ( after identifying your target of course) to protect yourself and loved ones?
You do NOT have to answer that outloud or in print here. It is something you have to be completely honest with yourself about. The reason being if you hesitate, it possible the bad person could get the firearm from you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Very good idea to get proper training right from the start. That way you won't have to unlearn bad habits you've picked up.
When you go to the shop of your choosing, ask if they recommend a shotgun or a handgun for you.
Plenty of good pumps (shotgun) out there. As recommended by others, a short barrel and full stock.
If they recommend a handgun, I suggest a double action revolver in .357 magnum. By purchasing a .357, it will allow you shoot .38 special for practice. ( the difference is case length, perfectly acceptable to use either in a .357 magnum. )
I've recommended manual operating firearms instead of semi autos. That way if they fail to fire, you can either pump another round in the shotgun or squeeze the trigger on the double action revolver.
.357mag fkin hurts. Got to shoot a Ruger in that last month. 5rds and i was done. .454casull didn't sting as bad
C3C7NIC
12-19-2019, 11:30pm
Some very good recommendations here. As previously stated, get very familiar with the weapon you intend to carry or use. Go to the range often, the more comfortable you are with handling it, the better you will be if the shit hits the fan. The more you practice, the more the muscle memory will take over when needed.
Some ranges will not let you quick draw a loaded weapon for obvious reasons, practice at home, unloaded of course. Without that confidence in drawing, you could be more of a detriment to yourself and others around you.
Good luck with whatever direction you go in, and weapon safety is most paramount.
:thumbsup:
One of the best (yet simple) training points I was given was to spend lots of time dry firing my new revolver, to gain comfort w/the the trigger pull. Seemed silly but really helped me strengthen my weak finger pull w/ the revolver which was creating a huge issue with my accuracy as I was puling not squeezing. :thomas:
That won't matter with a shotgun will it....?:leaving:
Patsgarage
12-19-2019, 11:30pm
I am actually going shooting at RTSP in Union tomorrow night. He just bought one of these and I want to try it out. https://worldoftroy.com/product/troy-10-pistol-9mm/
I have noticed that RTSP is a little more expensive than other places in NJ for firearms, but they do have a large selection and the "rent a gun" program is a great way to try it before you buy it.
GentleBen
12-20-2019, 8:04am
I think that's the first time I've seen optics of any kind on a shotgun. :lol:
It's a green light laser for shooting at things that go bump in the night in my house.
I've been pretty lazy on the firearms front. I own 2 rifles that my dad got me as a teenager.
I'm hoping to buy a couple of scary military grade assault weapons of war (semi-automatic rifles for the sane among you) sometime before election day 2020 just in case it goes a certain way so i can beat the panic price hikes.
Cybercowboy
12-20-2019, 8:17am
.357mag fkin hurts. Got to shoot a Ruger in that last month. 5rds and i was done. .454casull didn't sting as bad
It's not bad really as long as you have a nice heavy gun. My very first gun was a J-frame .357 S&W revolver. It's very easy to shoot whether .38 or .357. It is right at 50 years old now, got it used from a retired police officer.
JRD77VET
12-20-2019, 8:26pm
.357mag fkin hurts. Got to shoot a Ruger in that last month. 5rds and i was done. .454casull didn't sting as bad
I have a Ruger GP-100 , 6" barrel with full underlug
It's a pleasure to shoot even with full tilt loads.
But then, what do I know, I enjoy shooting my Ruger Super Redhawk in .44 magnum too
RED-85-Z51
12-20-2019, 9:35pm
It's not bad really as long as you have a nice heavy gun. My very first gun was a J-frame .357 S&W revolver. It's very easy to shoot whether .38 or .357. It is right at 50 years old now, got it used from a retired police officer.
This one was a poly frame 2" barrel
higgyburners
12-20-2019, 9:57pm
Get you the Hellcat...War Eagle Approved...
https://www.springfield-armory.com/hellcat-features/
JRD77VET
12-20-2019, 10:00pm
Get you the Hellcat...War Eagle Approved...
https://www.springfield-armory.com/hellcat-features/
He's in NJ, I believe the state limits him to a ten round magazine
Datawiz
12-20-2019, 10:19pm
I have a Ruger GP-100 , 6" barrel with full underlug
It's a pleasure to shoot even with full tilt loads.
But then, what do I know, I enjoy shooting my Ruger Super Redhawk in .44 magnum too
Where's your kitchen utensil? :toetap:
higgyburners
12-20-2019, 10:22pm
He's in NJ, I believe the state limits him to a ten round magazine
I could not live in a state that says i can't have 30 rounds ready to go :cert:
Where's your kitchen utensil? :toetap:
She's sleeping... :leaving:
JRD77VET
12-20-2019, 10:32pm
Where's your kitchen utensil? :toetap:
Happy now? :toetap:
:D
Cybercowboy
12-20-2019, 10:49pm
This one was a poly frame 2" barrel
Well what do you expect? A .38 would be snappy in that configuration.
Brett K
12-20-2019, 11:41pm
My first handgun was a Ruger sp101 with a 2.5” barrel. I still enjoy shooting it and it is my wife’s favorite. She prefers 158g +p .357 for the dramatic effect at the indoor range. It doesn’t bother her one bit:seasix:
Excellent that you're seeking advice and desire proper firearm/legal training.
I think you'll find most ranges and firearm sellers are pretty straight up and won't try to up-sell you. It's not like you're buying a car, TV or kitchen appliances.
Seriously consider Remington 870 shotgun. Point in the general direction and pull the trigger. Are you really going to be that proficient at 3:00 am, awakened from a sound sleep?
Ask about 95% of the police depts. in the U.S. what they have and why.
Good luck on your training, decision and ultimate purchase. :seasix:
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