How to Pick Your First Gun: A Beginner’s Guide for New Shooters in Malta

How to Pick Your First Gun: A Beginner’s Guide for New Shooters in Malta

Choosing your first firearm is an exciting step into the world of sport shooting and hunting. It’s important to pick a gun that suits your needs. Whether you’re interested in target shooting, hunting, or clay shooting, this guide will help you make an informed decision when selecting your first gun.

1. Understand Malta’s Firearm Laws

Before you start exploring your firearm options, it’s crucial to understand Malta’s laws regarding gun ownership. In Malta, firearms cannot be used for self-defense, and licenses are granted specifically for activities like sport shooting and hunting.

To own a firearm in Malta, you’ll need to apply for a Target Shooting License or Hunting License, depending on your intended use. Once you’re licensed, you’ll be limited to specific types of firearms based on the license category, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with these restrictions before choosing a gun.

2. Determine Your Purpose

The first step in selecting your first gun is understanding what you plan to use it for. Guns are designed with different activities in mind, so choosing a firearm that matches your goals is essential. Here are a few common purposes:

  • Target Shooting: If you’re interested in shooting at a range, pistols or small-caliber rifles are excellent choices for beginners. They offer ease of handling and are often used in sport shooting competitions.

  • Hunting: For hunting game in Malta, you’ll need a hunting-specific firearm, like a shotgun or rifle, depending on the type of game you’ll be hunting. Shotguns are commonly used for bird hunting, while rifles are used for larger game.

  • Clay Shooting: For those interested in clay shooting (trap and skeet), shotguns are the primary firearm used in this sport. A well-balanced shotgun with the appropriate gauge will help you improve accuracy in this fast-paced shooting discipline.

3. Types of Firearms for Beginners

As a first-time buyer, you’ll want a firearm that is easy to handle, reliable, and suited to your intended use. Below are some popular types of guns for beginners in Malta:

a. Pistols

Pistols are a popular choice for beginners interested in target shooting. They are smaller and lighter, making them easy to carry and handle. 

  • Pros: Easy to handle, lightweight, low recoil.
  • Cons: Limited range compared to rifles or shotguns.

b. Shotguns

Shotguns are versatile and can be used for hunting, clay shooting, and some competitive sports. They are especially popular for bird hunting and clay shooting in Malta. For beginners, a 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotgun is recommended, with options like pump-action or over-under designs that are easy to operate.

  • Pros: Versatile, powerful, ideal for hunting and clay shooting.
  • Cons: More recoil than smaller firearms, can be heavy.

c. Rifles

If you’re interested in long-range shooting or hunting, rifles are the go-to option. For beginners, a bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 LR is a great starting point. It offers precision, minimal recoil, and affordable ammunition. For hunting larger game, you may want to consider larger calibers like .308 or .243 depending on your target.

  • Pros: Accurate, good for long-range shooting, low recoil in smaller calibers.
  • Cons: Limited for close-range shooting, heavier than pistols.

4. Consider Ease of Use

As a first-time shooter, it’s important to choose a firearm that is easy to operate and maintain. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Recoil: Guns with heavy recoil can be difficult for beginners to control. Starting with lower-recoil firearms, like a .22 caliber pistol or rifle, will allow you to learn proper shooting techniques without dealing with excessive kickback.

  • Size and Weight: Make sure the firearm fits comfortably in your hands and isn’t too heavy to handle. Guns that are too large or too heavy can make shooting more difficult and less enjoyable for beginners.

  • Simplicity: As a beginner, you want a gun with simple, intuitive controls. Firearms like pump-action shotguns or bolt-action rifles are often easier to operate and maintain than more complex designs.

5. Test Before You Buy

One of the best ways to ensure you’re making the right choice is to test different firearms before committing to a purchase. Many shooting ranges in Malta offer rental guns, allowing you to try out pistols, rifles, and shotguns to see what feels best in your hands. You can also visit Executive Guns and Ammo to get expert advice and handle different firearms before making your decision.

6. Consider Your Budget

Firearms vary greatly in price depending on the make, model, and caliber. As a beginner, it’s wise to start with an affordable yet reliable firearm. You’ll also need to consider additional costs for accessories like ammunition, cleaning kits, and safety gear.

  • Pistols: Expect to pay between €600 and €1000 for a beginner-friendly pistol.
  • Shotguns: Entry-level shotguns typically range from €500 to €1,200.
  • Rifles: Depending on the caliber, you can find beginner rifles for around €400 to €1,000.

At Executive Guns and Ammo, we offer a variety of firearms to fit different budgets, and our staff can help you find the perfect match based on your needs and price range.

7. Safety First

Safety should always be your top priority when choosing a firearm. Be sure to invest in high-quality ear and eye protection, as well as a secure gun safe for proper storage. Additionally, take advantage of firearm safety courses offered by local shooting clubs to ensure you understand how to handle and care for your firearm responsibly.

Conclusion

Choosing your first gun is an exciting experience, but it’s important to take your time and make an informed decision. By understanding Malta’s firearm laws, determining your purpose, and selecting a firearm that matches your needs and skill level, you can confidently enter the world of sport shooting and hunting.

At Executive Guns and Ammo, we’re here to guide you through the process. Visit our store to explore a wide selection of beginner-friendly firearms, accessories, and safety gear. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you make the right choice for your first gun, ensuring you start your shooting journey on the right foot.

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