The number of gun background checks performed in 2016 is well beyond the 20 million mark. That means millions of handguns, rifles, and shotguns were sold to millions of consumers. Many of those consumers were first-time buyers. Buyers without a lot of experience with firearms may gravitate towards the most well-known gun manufacturer or the cheapest gun when they opt to purchase. Other important aspects of a firearm end up being overlooked due to inexperience. The recoil of a firearm, for example, is not thought about. Unfortunately, the inability to handle the recoil of a firearm undermines shot accuracy. When looking at guns for sale at a place like Wilcox Bait Tackle buyers should look at a few traits that reduce the potential for recoil problems.  

Caliber Counts

A lower caliber is going to deliver less of a recoil than a very heavy caliber. A .38 Special certainly won't kick as much as a .44 Magnum. The same is true with long guns. A 20 gauge shotgun is less powerful than a 12 gauge, but still a popular home defense caliber. Pick the right caliber wisely. Another point does need to be made here. Selecting the appropriate caliber is definitely important, but caliber should not be the only factor in a purchasing selection.

Design and Weight

The weight of a particular gun contributes to recoil. A heavier gun is going to recoil less since the extra weight won't be so easily jarred by the explosion of gun powder. Purchasing a full-size 9mm or .40 caliber pistol with a longer barrel as opposed to the smaller concealed carry version cuts down on recoil issues. Even with a high caliber such as a .357, a firearm's weight can reduce recoil. A firearm that is too heavy might not be the best purchase though. An extremely heavy and bulky firearm might be a little too clunky to handle. Look towards purchasing heavier-but-balanced firearms that aren't clumsy to hold.

Multi-Caliber Ability

Certain firearms are able to shoot more than one caliber. A .357 also works with lighter .38 Special rounds. .44 Magnums shoot .44 Special rounds Specially designed .45 Colts may shoot lighter .45 ACP rounds. This allows for buying a heavier firearm and shooting a lighter round. The lighter round could even be a packed with high-pressure ammo to extend its power, power that the heavier caliber is capable of easily handling.

Practice means a lot when trying to reduce recoil. Beginner do need more than just practice. They need the proper firearm for their experience level in order to compensate for potential recoil issues. Better shooting results when picking the right firearm and the most appropriate ammo.