Video: How to Shoot AR-15s

Don't be intimidated! Modern sporting rifles are easy and fun to shoot ... especially for beginners.

posted on May 11, 2021
** 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. **

Some people call them "modern sporting rifles." Some people call them "AR-15s." Some people (like us) call them a perfect platform for beginning shooters. A modern sporting rifle like the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 in this video offers extremely low recoil and report, which allows a beginner to focus on the things that matter most: safe gun handling skills and the fundamentals of marksmanship.

In this Smith & Wesson GunSmarts video, Provectus Group's Ken Scott walks a new shooter through an M&P's paces. Shooting modern sporting rifles is very simple, but it's important for a beginner to understand how the controls work and how to properly hold the gun. As you can see, the "getting the hang of it" part is the easy part ... the hard part is putting it down when your magazine runs dry! 

Latest

Ruger 250 SR1911 Right 16707 1
Ruger 250 SR1911 Right 16707 1

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.

How to Have a Wild—but Safe—Time in America's National Parks

Our national parks are the envy of the world, but you must responsibly navigate these three outdoor hazards to stay safe during your visit: wildlife, weather and geological features.

The Armed Citizen® Reload June 12, 2026

One man's idea of brotherly love didn't exactly align with his sister's philosophy.

Sally Talbott Earns High Woman Honors at 2026 CMP Bianchi Cup

Talbott, a member of Team Accuracy X and a former member of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Service Pistol Team also earned Open .22 Champion honors and finishing 2nd overall in the Open Division.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.