Going to get my Safety Certificate today. (California) *new to guns*

C

Cuban_Homer

New member
Hi everyone. I am new to the forum here.

Today is a pretty exciting day for me because I am going to take the written HSC test at my local indoor range. This is all new to me so from what I understand, I just need the certificate and I am able to buy handguns. Is this correct.

I live in Southern California, and from what I understand there are more rules here and restrictions. I originally wanted to get a Springfield XDM 9MM, but I think those are illegal in California.

Any advice before I go and take the test? I am 23 years old. I am going with my Step Dad who also wants to buy a handgun for home protection. We both are completely new to this and are excited to learn.

Any fellow Californian's out there? I was excited when I found this forum because you all seem like nice people and are very knowledgeable about guns. I hope to learn from you all, and hopefully you won't be annoyed with lots of questions from me.
 
You have to pay $20 or so to take a small multiple choice test, it's basically common sense with one or two tricky questions in it. Once you take that you are allowed to purchase your first handgun and you'll have a 10day waiting period while the paperwork goes through. Don't worry if you fail the test, you get three tries I think before they have to stop you I believe.
 
The one I missed recently was what is the safest way to carry a gun?
I put pointed at the ground. The answer was pointed in a direction where if the gun accidently discharges, the bullet cannot do harm to anyone, or some such stuff.

Otherwise, it's common sense. You need to look at the DOJ's 'list of approved guns', and, you'll find a lot more coming off, 14 pages, then the 4 guns they just approved going on...

http://certguns.doj.ca.gov/
 
Well I am happy to report that both my step dad and I passed. It's 30 questions, and I missed 2 and my step dad missed 1.

So now comes the process of shooting different brands and seeing what kind of 9mm I would like to purchase. Last time I went to the shooting range I shot a Springfield and today I shot a Glock. So, I am still feeling things out and testing different kinds before I buy.

We are also going to a gun show later this month.
 
Congrats on passing the test.

I HIGHLY recommend that you take an NRA basic handgun class so you can tattoo safety, fundamentals and CA gun laws.

Taking classes will make your a better shooter and will save you the heart ache of developing bad habits.

Then sign up as a member to your local gun rental range and try out as many different types of guns to find the best one for YOU.
 
Today is my day off from work and I am so tempted to go to the range right now. Wife won't be home till 6pm. I feel like trying a Springfield 1911.

These are the 9MM they have for rent. Which one should I try next.
Glock 17, 17c, 19, 26, 34
Sig Sauer P226
Springfield XD 9
S&W Sigma
Springfield 1911
Ruger PC 9 Carbine
CZ 75BD
Springfiled EMP
Beretta 92FS
Ruger P95
 
I own (and love) a S&W Sigma .40 caliber auto. It has only jammed on me one time at the range and I believe that that was because it was filthy -- I had not cleaned it after the last time I shot it. Very reliable, good magazine capacity (14+1 in .40 cal and 16+1 for the 9mm I think*)Solid weapon.
The only complaint I can muster up is that it has a heavy trigger.. 14 pounds I think. Very nice weapon, and not to bad on the wallet if you're the type of person that has to worry about that kind of thing.

Good Luck.
 
Well I am interested in a semi automatic pistol. My dad is interested in a revolver.

What I really want is a Springfield XDM it seems like the best value for the money. It comes in a case with holster, loader, lock, 2 magazines, and a magazine holster. Do other gun companies give extras when you buy it new?
 
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