Firearm Features: Finding Your Perfect Fit

There are many preliminary questions that should be answered before a new shooter can say “yes” to the right gun.

posted on December 15, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

When novice shooters accompany friends or family members to the range for the first time, they typically fire the guns available to them at that moment. Fit, form and function are not necessarily what’s on the new shooter’s mind. Those important considerations usually come later, when the decision is made to invest in his or own firearm, whether for recreational purposes or personal protection. It’s at that point that an array of questions should be asked and answered regarding which firearm is right for him or her.

Of course, the answer to those questions will be different for everyone. To help with this, champion pro shooter Julie Golob hosts this Smith & Wesson GUNSMARTS video, “Firearm Features for Different Uses,” in which she walks through a series of considerations to help guide a new shooter in the search for the right gun. Some of these factors include discovering the ideal grip—size, angle and texture, for example—and why these are so important. Other dimensions such as profile, weight, length of pull (for long guns), barrel length and sight radius are also explained. Golob continues the discussion with a look at the various types of sights available, starting with iron sights, then progresses to the basics of scopes and other optics like red dots. Finally, Golob delves into one of the most important factors in choosing the right firearm: How easily can the controls be manipulated? Can the trigger and mag release be easily reached? What about racking the slide? And so much more!

There are many preliminary questions beyond these that should be asked and answered before a new shooter can say “yes” to the best gun for him or her. This expanded GUNSMARTS video is an ideal place to start that journey.

For more, visit smith-wesson.com/gunsmarts

Latest

Deering Ccw Dont 2 Istock 1764000522
Deering Ccw Dont 2 Istock 1764000522

When NOT to Draw Your Gun

If you carry concealed, we hope you’ve given some thought to the circumstances under which you’d draw your gun. But have you thought about when you WON’T?

The Armed Citizen® Reload June 19, 2026

A woman used a revolver she had just purchased to save her husband's life during a violent attack outside their home. 

Kim Rowe Delivers Standout Performances at 2026 NRA National Championships

Rowe earned top honors and multiple podium finishes at both the NRA National High Power Mid-Range Prone Championships and the NRA National High Power Long Range Championships.

New Guns 2026: Ruger Adds More America 250th Anniversary Firearms

Each limited production model in this special collection is distinctly marked with the inscription, "Made in the 250th Year of American Liberty."

Delights for Dad on Father’s Day

Whether Dad is a dedicated hunter, competitive shooter, avid reloader or simply enjoys spending time outside, here's a selection of products that is sure to please.

4 Gun Sayings That Are Absolutely True … and 3 That Aren’t

There are a lot of cliches and one-liners we throw around in the gun community. Some of them are true, but some are just baloney.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.