Top 5 Mistakes New Gun Owners Make (And How to Fix Them)

Stepping into gun ownership is a big move, and at Fortress Firearms Training, we’ve seen newcomers stumble over the same hurdles. Don’t worry—mistakes are part of learning. Here are the top five we spot on the range, plus fixes to get you on track.

1. Skipping the Manual

New shooters often grab their shiny firearm and head straight to firing without cracking the owner’s manual. I get it—excitement takes over. But missing key details like how to disassemble or clear a malfunction can jam you up later. Fix it: Sit down with a coffee and read the whole thing. It’s your gun’s rulebook.

2. Neglecting Trigger Discipline

I’ve watched folks rest their finger on the trigger like it’s a safety blanket. It’s not. That’s how accidents happen. Fix it: Keep your finger off until you’re ready to shoot—every time. Our intro classes drill this habit into muscle memory.

3. Ignoring Regular Practice

A gun in the safe doesn’t make you a sharpshooter. Too many newbies shoot once, then let it gather dust. Fix it: Hit the range monthly. Even 50 rounds keeps your skills sharp. Fortress offers private sessions to make it easy.

4. Overlooking Home Storage

Leaving a loaded firearm where kids or intruders can snag it is a rookie error. I’ve heard stories that still give me chills. Fix it: Invest in a quick-access safe and practice retrieving it fast. We’ll show you how in our home defense course.

5. Guessing the Law

Firing a gun in self-defense without knowing your state’s rules can land you in hot water. Laws aren’t intuitive. Fix it: Study up or take a legal basics class. At Fortress, we break down what you need to stay safe and legal.

Get Ahead of the Curve

Owning a firearm is a responsibility—one you can master with the right guidance. Fortress Firearms Training turns mistakes into confidence. Sign up for a session, and let’s fix these before they find you.