“First Shots”: A Chance to Give Handgun Shooting a Try

There are 40 million Americans who actively enjoy target shooting and hunting. But for newcomers the biggest challenge is knowing how to get started. Anew program from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), "First Shots," provides a free opportunity for newcomers to learn about the safe, recreational use of handguns. It’s also a chance to give shooting a try.

Partnering with shooting ranges, First Shots offers the public a chance to learn the rules and requirements of handgun ownership along with comprehensive information on safety, shooting sports opportunities, individual and group training, and range access.

It also answers new shooters’ questions regarding firearms and firearm ownership. "For many individuals, especially in states with more restrictive handgun laws, there is an aura of mystery surrounding handgun ownership," said Cyndi Dalena, NSSF director of shooting-sports development. "First Shots gives range owners and retailers an opportunity to educate the public on local requirements and offers newcomers a chance to try handgun shooting." The program enjoyed a successful inaugural event at the Smith & Wesson Shooting Sports Center in Springfield, Massachusetts, last October.

More than 40 newcomers attended the event and virtually all of them expressed a strong interest in pursuing shooting in the future. "Our First Shots event was a great success," said Peter Boruchowski, manager of Smith & Wesson Shooting Sports Center. "After the event, more than 75 percent of attendees either signed up for a range membership or additional training classes.

This program is a great opportunity to introduce a whole new group of people to the shooting sports." First Shots is one of many NSSF programs working to increase awareness of and participation in the shooting sports. For more information about NSSF, visit