Posted by Team Armscor on Sep 9, 2025 3 Minute Read
Buying and shooting your first firearm can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. In this beginner-friendly guide, Rock Island Armory walks you through everything you need to know before stepping into a gun shop or onto the range. From understanding what questions to ask to knowing how a firearm should feel in your hand, we’re here to help you shop and shoot with confidence.
We’ll show you what to expect during your first visit to a firearm retailer, including which models may be best for your purposes and comfort. Plus, we’ll share Rock Island Armory’s top recommendations for first-time buyers — entry-level options that are reliable, easy to use and built to grow with you.
Getting the right grip, identifying your dominant eye and understanding basic sight alignment can dramatically improve your accuracy and comfort. We’ll walk you through each of these fundamentals step by step, so you can start your journey with the right form and mindset.
Finally, we’ll explain how dry fire practice can help you build muscle memory, reinforce safe handling and gain confidence — all before you ever load a round. This guide will give you the tools and knowledge to take the next step.
Check it out!
“A guy came up to me and said that I made history,” John said. “It was the first time that the 5.0E had been used in a world shoot, and I was the one using it”
The IPSC Handgun World Shoot isn’t just another match—it’s the pinnacle of competitive shooting, where the world’s best test their skill, consistency and mental discipline.
This year’s competition brought 1,600 shooters from 76 countries, each earning their way onto the world stage. For John, it was an opportunity to put both his experience and the RIA 5.0E to the ultimate test. Let's see how it started
Join Rock Island Armory to discuss revolver function, break down key components like the cylinder, trigger, and hammer, and explain why these mechanical masterpieces still have a place in modern shooting. In this video, we break down the basics — from understanding action types, how much recoil is expected, the function and what a proper grip looks like. Whether you’re new to firearms or you need a quick refresher, feel more informed and in control with these tips and tidbits.
Are you unable or unwilling to conceal your firearm on your body at all times? Off-body carry may be the solution. In this video, Rock Island Armory dives into the benefits and methods to conceal carry off-body in a fanny pack, sling bag or backpack — and who these methods may work for.