There’s nothing more exhilarating than feeling the cool barrel of a rifle and sensing the power it can generate. However, this power can do more harm than good when you don’t consider the risks involved. Investing in the proper equipment and precautions should take priority the first time gun owners purchase a personal gun. This way, you can take advantage of such an awesome tool while protecting yourself and your loved ones.

Read on to learn from the rookie mistakes of new gun owners, so you can make the most of this valuable asset and keep everyone safe.

Update the Features

It can be easy to get caught up in holding a large amount of force in the palm of your hands. As a result, many fresh gun buyers become trigger-happy and forget to review the different parts of this mechanism. For example, something as simple as purchasing a quality trigger can offer more comfort and control for the gun owner. The last thing you want to do is fire a gun and find out then that it wasn’t ready for action.

Know the Law

Although U.S. law grants citizens the right to bear arms, there are various state regulations that may limit when and where you can carry and wield a gun. Some states stand by open-carry policies while others require you to conceal a weapon. There may also be certain locations, such as public schools, where weapons are forbidden. You may want to check your state’s gun laws, so you can carry your gun while abiding by government guidelines.

Empower Those Around You

You can store your gun in a secure space, but the best safety net is an educated populace. Take the time to inform your loved ones about the ins and outs of guns, so they appreciate the responsibility of owning this tool. When everyone understands the risks involved, it becomes that much easier to keep those dearest to you out of harm’s way.

Approach your first gun with a student mentality, and you can enjoy your purchase while protecting what matters most in life.