January 14, 2026

Common New Owner Mistakes
(And How to Avoid Them)

Photo: Many new owner mistakes happen during routine handling at home. Safe habits like chamber checks and trigger discipline prevent most accidents before they start.

Fact: Most firearm accidents do not happen at the range or during training. They happen at home, often involving new owners who thought they were doing everything right.

Buying your first firearm is exciting. Its also a responsibility that comes with a learning curve most people underestimate. Movies, friends, and internet advice only tell part of the story. The rest? You learn it the hard way unless someone tells you upfront.

Here are some of the most common mistakes new gun owners make, and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Skipping Training

Many first-time owners assume reading the manual or watching a few videos is enough. It isn't.

Handling a firearm safely under calm conditions is one thing. Doing it under stress, distraction, or fatigue is another. Formal training teaches muscle memory, safe habits, and how to react when something goes wrong.

Fix: Take at least one in-person safety or fundamentals course. Even experienced shooters benefit from professional instruction.

Mistake #2: Buying the Wrong Gun First

New owners often buy based on looks, caliber hype, or what someone else likes.

A gun that's too large, too small, too powerful, or uncomfortable to shoot often ends up unused, or worse, mishandled.

Fix: Try before you buy. Rent different models at a range, pay attention to grip comfort, recoil control, and how naturally you can aim.

Mistake #3: Improper Storage

Some owners lock everything away so securely they cant access it when needed. Others leave firearms unsecured because they think they're safe enough.

Both are problems.

Fix: Choose storage that balances safety and access. A quality lock or quick-access safe is essential, especially in homes with children or guests.

Mistake #4: Ignoring the Basics of Maintenance

A surprising number of new owners never clean their firearm until it malfunctions.

Dirty guns fail. Poorly lubricated guns fail faster.

Fix: Learn basic field stripping and cleaning. You do not need to be a gunsmith, but you do need to keep your equipment functional and safe.

Mistake #5: Overconfidence

Confidence grows quickly after a few successful range trips. Skill does not always keep up.

This is where complacency creeps in.

Fix: Treat every firearm as loaded. Follow the safety rules every single time. Respect the tool, no matter how familiar it feels.

Mistake #6: Forgetting the Legal Side

Gun laws vary wildly by state and can change without much notice.

New owners sometimes assume what is legal to own is legal to carry, transport, or modify.

Fix: Know your local laws. Understand transport rules, carry regulations, and storage requirements in your area.

Mistake #7: Focusing on Gear Instead of Skill

Its easy to spend money on accessories before mastering fundamentals.

Lights, optics, holsters, and upgrades mean little without proper handling and accuracy.

Fix: Invest in ammo, training, and range time before accessories. Skill lasts longer than gear trends.

In Closing

Owning a firearm is not just about buying the gun. Its about learning, discipline, and responsibility.

Mistakes happen. The goal is to recognize them early, correct them, and become the kind of owner who sets the standard for safety and competence.

Until next time, stay locked and loaded.
- Randy, Locked N Loaded

Please add randy@gophercentral.com to your address book or visit here.

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