Applying for your carry permit in New Jersey can be broken down into a five step process. Follow along the next few weeks where we break down each step, from getting your Firearms ID card, choosing the right gun for you, to shooting the qualification course! Each step is also broken down on our website GunForHire.com/NJCCW. If at any point you have questions, please send an email to [email protected] or stop in Gun For Hire any time we are open.

Below are Gun For Hire’s Five Step process to carry!

Step 1 – I need to apply for a FID Card and/or Pistol Purchase Permit. (See Tip #4 from 7/25/24)

Step 2 – I need to determine and purchase the right pistol I would like to carry.

Step 3 – Before I qualify, I’d like lessons or to practice with my carry gun.

Step 4 – I need to shoot the qualification course.

Step 5 – I’m ready to apply for my carry license online.

This week we are discussing Step 2:

Step 2: I need to determine and purchase the right pistol I would like to carry.

Our 2,400 square foot gun store is stocked with the best selection of firearms at every price level. More extensive than our line of firearms is our staff’s knowledge of the 2,000 guns we have in inventory! We are ready to help and assist you in finding the best firearm for your grip and needs.

Determining the best carry pistol for you comes down to a few factors: fit, safety, optics and cost. When finding the correct fit of your firearm, there is no “one-size-fits-all” perfect carry gun. You consider the size and caliber of the pistol; it should be comfortable to carry for an extended period of time. The pistol should fit your hand comfortably and feel like the “perfect fit” for you.

In terms of safety, some pistols, like Glock, have a safety built into the trigger. Other pistols, like Smith & Wesson, have a manual safety. Determining which safety function you are more comfortable with will eliminate certain options. If you would like to have an optic mounted on your firearm, make sure to purchase an Optic Ready firearm. Finally, in terms of cost, set a realistic budget for your firearm. Handguns start around a few hundred dollars.

Once you have an idea of a few options you may like to purchase, head to the Gun For Hire rental counter and try it before you buy it! We have over 400 firearms in stock for you to rent. From Glock to Sig Sauer to CZ and more, we have all the popular carry firearms available to rent.

After trying out a few options and when you have made your decision, head back to the Gun For Hire Gun Store to begin the paperwork. If you rent and purchase the firearm on the same day, we will cover your $25 rental! Members receive a free lesson; for new gun owners, on their first firearm purchase. (Valued $25)

We hope you enjoyed this week’s tip! Curious about shooting for the first time or looking for advanced holster training? We would love to welcome you to Gun For Hire to experience our 6-Star Family Gun Range, Gun Store, and Training!