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(830) 980-3637 24250 US-281
San Antonio, TX
Opens today at 10:00 AM

Store Hours

Monday:
10AM - 8PM
Tuesday:
10AM - 8PM
Wednesday:
10AM - 8PM
Thursday:
10AM - 8PM
Friday:
10AM - 8PM
Saturday:
10AM - 8PM
Sunday:
10AM - 6PM

Can You Rent Guns At A Range?

Yes, you can rent guns at a range

If you’re new to guns and shooting, or even if you’re an experienced shooter, you may be wondering if you can rent guns at a shooting range. The answer is yes! Most ranges will have a great selection of handguns and rifles that you can rent by the hour or day. This is a great way to try out different types of guns before you buy one, or to simply practice your shooting without having to lug around your own equipment. Before heading to the range, be sure to call ahead or check the website to see what kinds of rentals are available.

There are a few things you need to know before renting a gun

There are a few things you need to know before renting a gun. First, make sure you know the laws in your state. Some states have stricter regulations than others when it comes to renting firearms. Second, be familiar with the range’s policies on gun rental.

Every range has its own policies, so be sure to read them carefully before signing anything. Once you know the laws and policies, renting a gun is easy!

Ranges typically have a wide variety of guns available for rent

Ranges typically have a variety of guns available for rent, from pistols to rifles to machine guns. Most ranges have a variety of guns available for rent, so you can try out different calibers and styles before deciding what you want to buy. This gives you a chance to try out different types of firearms and find the one that’s right for you.

You’ll need to provide ID and sign a waiver before renting a gun

Be sure to bring your ID and sign the waiver before renting a gun. Most ranges will require you to be at least 18 years old or accompanied by a parent, but some may have a higher age requirement. always read the range’s policies carefully before you go.

A good range will have staff on hand to help you select the right gun and teach you how to use it safely

A good gun range will have staff on hand to help you select the right gun and teach you how to properly use it. They will also be able to answer any questions you may have about guns and shooting. This is important, as it can help you stay safe while enjoying your time at the range.

They’ll also be able to answer any questions you have about the firearm rental process. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the range’s policies before you go, so you know what’s expected of you.

Ready to try out a new experience?

Renting a gun is easy and can be a lot of fun. Just make sure you take the time to learn about the different types of guns available and what each one can do. Ask the range safety officer at your local range or gun shop for help in selecting the right firearm for your needs.

Most importantly, always remember to handle firearms safely and responsibly. Reserve a lane now and have fun shooting!

What does a Gunsmith Do?

Have you ever wondered what a professional gunsmith does? They are skilled tradesman who specializes in the repair, construction, and customization of firearms. In addition to repairing guns, they may also build custom firearms to meet the specific needs of their clients. Whether you’re a hunter looking for a new rifle or a shooting enthusiast seeking to improve your accuracy, a gunsmith can help you achieve your goals. Keep reading to learn more about the fascinating world of gunsmithing.

If you own a gun or are considering purchasing one, it’s important to understand the role of a gunsmith. Here are some of the more common services they perform:

Sonic cleaning – This process uses sound waves to clean the barrels, and internal working parts of firearms. It’s an effective way to remove debris and build-up without damaging the barrel.

Scope mounting and bore sighting – In order to ensure accuracy, gunsmiths will often install scopes and sights on firearms. They will also boresight the firearm, which is a process of aligning the barrel with the scope, making sighting in your rifle easier.

Trigger jobs – A gunsmith can adjust the trigger pull on a firearm to make it lighter or heavier, depending on the preference of the shooter. Trigger installation is another option to improve the performance of a firearm.

Rifle stock bedding – This is the process of fitting a rifle stock to a receiver so that they fit snugly together. This ensures accuracy and precision when shooting.

Muzzle device installation – Muzzle devices, such as suppressors and muzzle brakes, can be installed by a gunsmith. This is a specialized service that requires specific training and experience.

Firearm assembly – Gunsmiths assemble both new and used firearms. This includes everything from attaching scopes and grips to putting together complete rifles and pistols.

AR-15/AR-10 services – As one of the most popular firearms on the market, the AR-15/AR-10 platform has a wide variety of aftermarket parts and accessories. A gunsmith can help you select and install the right parts for your needs.

There are many other services that a gunsmith can provide, depending on their expertise and experience. If you’re looking to improve the performance of your firearm, or simply want to maintain it in optimal condition, then a gunsmith is the right person for the job.

Buck & Doe’s Mercantile has one of the best gunsmiths in San Antonio on staff. Visit our store today to learn more about the services we offer. We look forward to helping you achieve your firearms goals!

Why I Visited a Gun Store and Bought My First Gun

I never grew up around guns and didn’t know much about them

 When I was younger, my parents always warned me about the dangers of guns. They would tell me that if I ever came across a gun, I should avoid it at all costs. As someone who has never owned a gun before, I never really understood the appeal.

But after recent events in our country, I decided that it was time for me to learn more about guns, where to buy a gun, and figure out why so many people seem to be in favor of them. So last week, I visited my local gun store and bought my first gun.

I did some research and decided that a gun could be a useful tool in my home

As I researched home safety, I became convinced that a gun could be a useful tool in my home. Some people might not feel safe having a gun in their home, but I believe that with the right training and education, it can be a great way to protect my family.

My research showed me that owning a gun is not as dangerous as some people think, and it could potentially save my life or the life of someone I love. I am confident in my decision to own a gun and am looking forward to adding one to my home security arsenal.

I visited a gun store and talked to the staff there about my options

When it comes to personal safety, one of the most important decisions you can make is what type of firearm to have. If you’re like me, you may be unsure about what your options are when it comes to guns. I decided to visit my local gun store and talk to the staff there about my options. They were able to give me some great information about a wide selection of guns and firearms available and what would best suit my needs.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a firearm, I highly recommend talking to a professional at your local gun shop first! They can help you figure out what type of firearm is best for your individual needs and lifestyle, take care of your background checks, and make sure the firearms transaction record is completed properly.

I signed up for firearms training

I recently attended a firearms training course, and it was an excellent experience. The instructor was very knowledgeable and passionate about teaching, and I learned a lot about safety, handling, and shooting techniques.

There’s something about firearms training that just makes you feel safer. Maybe it’s the idea of being able to protect yourself and your loved ones in a worst-case scenario, or maybe it’s the challenge of learning a new skill.

If you’re thinking about buying a gun, here are some things to consider first

If you’re considering buying a gun, there are some important things to think about before you make your decision. Guns can be a powerful tool for self-defense, but they also come with a lot of responsibility.

You should enroll in gun safety courses and familiarize yourself with gun laws in your state. It’s also a good idea to learn about gun safety so you know how to properly handle and store your gun.

At the end of my visit, I felt like a new person. Rather than feeling scared or anxious about having to protect me and my family one day, I now feel empowered by the knowledge that if something ever happens, I will be ready.

If you’re looking for someone to talk with who understands what gun ownership means in today’s world, don’t hesitate to stop by Buck & Doe’s Mercantile where their experts can answer all your questions and help you find just the right firearm for you!

4 Options for Concealed Carry for Women

More and more women gun owners are stepping up to the challenge of handgun concealed carry because they want to be able to protect themselves and their families effectively against criminals that may decide to attack them. The following information will detail four different ways that women can carry concealed handguns, either on their person or in purses or bags. The concealed carry methods described are secure and effective while still being easy to access in case of an emergency.

Pocket or Waistband Holster

Pocket carry is one of the most popular carry methods for women. Many small handguns are designed specifically with concealed carry in mind, and that makes them slim enough to fit into tight pockets or waistbands without much discomfort.

A small pistol concealed in a pocket holster will secure the gun, while the holster prevents anything from snagging the trigger.

Pocket carry is an excellent carry method for small handguns that are typically only effective at close-range.

Ankle Holster

Ankle holsters are also handgun carry methods for women that can be practical in some situations. The ankle holster is concealed by the long pant legs most women wear, so they are effective at concealment. However, ankle carry does have its drawbacks because access to the gun tends to be difficult and slower than around the mid-section of the body.  As with any of the concealed carry methods, you will need to practice pulling the concealed gun from the ankle holster in order to effectively access it if you ever do need to use it.

Concealed Carry Belly Band

A concealed carry belly band is a firm elastic band that holds small, concealed handguns against the mid-section of the body. The concealed carry belly band sits on the hips or just above and is concealed easily under even bulky or loose-fitting clothing. Belly bands tend to be very easy to access and provide concealed carriers with good retention and draw speed. Belly bands are also typically cheaper than concealed handgun holsters, which is nice for concealed carriers on a budget. Special caution must be given, when re-holstering, as the elastic band collapses when empty and the use of the support hand must be used to open the muzzle’s entry point.  Untrained individuals often muzzle themselves, thus creating a safety issue.  With proper training, this carry method is very advantageous for women who wear pants or slacks without belt loops.

Concealed Carry Purse or Bag

Last but not least, purses or bags are great options for concealed carry for women who like having their concealed weapons accessible to them, when needed.

If concealed carry in pockets, waistbands, and on ankles are not practical for you because of your outfit or lifestyle, concealed carry purses or concealed carry bags can be effective concealed carry methods. You simply keep the concealed handgun in the concealed carry purse when it is not needed. The concealed handgun is accessible in an emergency when you need it quickly.

Many concealed carry purses are designed to be stylish and practical for concealed carrying of handguns. Concealed carry purses are typically heavy-duty bags that will not fall apart because they contain firearms, and concealed carry purses can vary in size depending on how much space you need. Make sure that the holster that comes with the purse is utilized to eliminate accidental discharges while the gun is in the purse.

Find a Boutique That Can Help You Decide

What concealed carry option is right for you? We recommend finding a boutique that can show you all 4 options and help you decide which option fits your lifestyle, the handgun carried, and your personal style.

There are great options available from manufacturers like Bulldog, STS Ranchwear, Tagua, Versa, and Cameleon.

We invite you to come by the boutique at Buck & Doe’s Mercantile to see the quality, comfort, and style of the options available to you. We can help you find the solution for you, so you have a concealed weapon without alerting people to the fact that you are armed.

What’s the best way to clean a gun?

Hunting season is over, winter is finally here, and it’s time to properly clean and store our guns.

In order to be sure our gun is in the best condition for when the next hunting season comes around, gun owners should regularly clean their guns. How often a gun owner needs to clean their gun depends on what gun was used and how it was stored between hunts.

Let’s take a look at gun care and gun cleaning.

Cleaning a gun is an important part of firearm ownership.

As a hunter, outdoorsman, or gun owner, you know that keeping your firearms clean is essential for reliable performance. When gun owners clean their guns they are protecting themselves, others, and their guns.

When gun owners fail to clean their guns it can lead to damage or malfunction of the gun. If something goes wrong with a gun while it is being fired, the gun owner may be injured. The gun could also injure someone else accidentally if it misfires, or has a catastrophic failure due to lack of maintenance.

What are the best ways to clean a gun?

There are two popular ways to clean a gun? In this blog post, we’ll discuss the differences between traditional cleaning and ultrasonic or sonic gun cleaning. Stay safe and reliable in the field with clean guns!

Gun Cleaning Kits

Universal gun cleaning kits can be purchased and gun owners should consult their gun’s manual for specific gun care instructions.

What You’ll Need:  gun cleaning solvent, cleaning patches, gun cloth or gun rags (never use regular cloth as this may leave fibers behind), gun grease (for after the gun is cleaned), eye protection (to protect your vision in case gun cleaning chemicals splash in your eyes), bore brush, cleaning rod, gun vise (optional but good to have), gun oil, and a nylon bristled brush.

What You’ll Do:

When you are ready to clean your gun, make sure it is unloaded, and there is no ammunition present.  It pays to triple check the chamber to make sure that there is no live ammunition in the gun.  Disassemble your gun per the manufacturer’s instructions. If you are not familiar with gun disassembly or are uncomfortable cleaning a gun, take it to a gunsmith for cleaning.

Make sure that the gun’s action is open and no ammunition is present in the cleaning area.

  1. Read the gun’s manual for specific gun care instructions and then follow them exactly.
  2. Cover the firearm with a gun cleaner per the gun cleaner’s instructions.
  3. Wipe off the gun cleaner and carbon deposits with gun patches, or a clean rag.
  4. Clean metal parts (such as trigger, slide, and breach) with a nylon bristled brush. Brush in the direction of the metal part grooves.
  5. Wipe gun parts with a gun cloth and solvent. Oil or grease them if they need it per the gun’s manufacturer instructions. Using gun grease on some metal parts is optional but recommended by some gun manufacturers as it prevents rusting, protects the gun from corrosion, and lubricates metal parts so that they work better.
  6. Wipe gun oil on metal parts so that they are coated with gun oil per firearms manual instructions. Too much gun oil can attract dirt and residue, but too little gun oil can lead to rust.
  7. Clean the barrel of the gun with a bore brush and solvent until a gun patch comes out of the barrel clean.
  8. Clean the gun’s stock with a silicone cloth, or a clean rag. Older wooden stocks, that are not sealed by the manufacturer, may require the use of a wood sealer, such as boiled linseed oil.  (Please follow the storage requirements of utilizing boiled linseed oil.)

Quality gun cleaning chemicals are available to buy at many gun shops, but can also be found at general stores in some areas.

Use a quality gun cleaning solvent and a quality gun specific lubricant to keep your firearm in good condition.  Never use WD-40 on firearms, as over time they cause a shellac like buildup on parts.

Use gun-cleaning tools designed specifically for the firearm that you are cleaning.  Quality cleaning kits and components are important to protecting your investments.

Never use tap water or other household cleaners on your firearm.

Consult with your local gunsmith if you have any questions about the best gun cleaning kit and lubricants to use.

Sonic Gun Cleaning

Sonic gun cleaning is the process of cleaning firearms with high-frequency sound waves. The ultrasonic waves are powerful enough to remove fouling and dirt from the bore, chamber, and other internal parts of the firearm without the use of harsh chemicals. In addition, sonic gun cleaning can help to reduce wear on the firearm over time.

Sonic gun cleaning is a very thorough way to clean your firearm.  It’s also a lot safer than traditional methods like using a brush or rag to scrub the barrel because there is no risk of scratching or damage to the barrel surface.

You can find sonic cleaning services at your local gunsmith.

Store your guns in a safe place when they’re not in use.

Store the gun in a safe place where children, or other unauthorized individuals can’t get to it.

It is important to understand that storing a firearm in an enclosed case can trap moisture, and can cause the gun to rust.

Storing your gun in a gun safe is the best way to keep your gun from being damaged or used without your permission.

If you don’t have a gun safe, store your gun on a gun rack, or locked closet where others won’t be able to reach it.

If you’re not sure how to clean your gun, consult a professional.

Gun ownership involves a high level of responsibility for the gun owner. Keeping your gun safe and clean is a large part of your responsibility.

If you are unsure of how to properly clean your firearms, or simply don’t have the time, there are professional gun cleaning services available through your local gun shop that offers gunsmithing services.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure.

San Antonio Archery Techniques for Competition Shooting

For archers in San Antonio getting ready for local or statewide competitions, brushing up or learning new techniques should be a priority. Timing, aiming, and control are all aspects of the sport that require extra focus. Here are a few tips to up your game for your next archery competition.

Arrow Release Timing

During qualifications for local or statewide archery competitions, you are allotted forty seconds per arrow. But instead of using the fully forty seconds when you practice, use only twenty seconds. Twenty seconds per arrow is the standard time for competitive archery competitions, so by conditioning yourself to this time, you won’t feel rushed when it’s your turn to shoot.

Outdoor Archery Competitions – Aiming Your Arrow

Bad weather conditions, particularly when it’s extremely windy, can make it challenging for archery shooters to accurately aim. A tip archery coaches encourage is to “aim off”, meaning to aim your arrow so that it follows the course of the wind. Your training may make it difficult to not aim towards the middle but remember you can use the wind in your favor!

Proper Stance When Shooting a Bow

Proper shooting stance requires balance and awareness. Not awareness in the sense of knowing who’s standing beside you, but awareness in your own self and body. Start by lining up the balls of the feet with the center of the target you are shooting at approximately hip or shoulder width apart. The toes of the bow side (forward) foot will line up with the ball of the draw side (back) foot, which is usually accomplished with an index finger length step back with the bow side foot. The feet will be angled toward the target slightly- the front foot at about 30 degrees and the back foot about 15 degrees to the target.

This slightly open stance allows for engagement of your more stable core muscles to assist in drawing and bracing the weight of the bow. Keeping a balance of approximately 60% of your weight in the toes also requires engagement of the hamstrings and calves as well as the arches of the feet. Some advocate for locked knees, but that can restrict critical blood flow if held for too long, so we recommend a ‘softly straight’ knee. Not bent, but not locked straight. A stance that allows the archer to tap into their own foundational strengths and root themselves to their spot is key to consistency in an archer’s shot process.

Choose The Correct Archery Equipment

It can take a couple of tries to find the right bow and arrow combination you want to use for a competition, so take notes! Which bow and arrow set worked best for the targets that are going to be used in the competition? Document your progress on each bow and arrow set carefully and make equipment adjustments as needed. Visit an archery pro shop in San Antonio for help with equipment selections that work best for you.

Archery Practice And Lessons

The most obvious tip is to make sure to practice before archery competitions! However, finding an archery range in San Antonio can present a challenge. At Buck and Doe’s Mercantile we offer archery classes for all skill levels and ages. Our indoor archery range allows everyone, from beginners to those looking to sharpen their skills, a place to practice in a well-lit, climate-controlled environment. All lanes are available on a walk-in basis – no reservations or memberships required! Our targets range from a wall of block targets and moveable block targets to meet your required distance to a large variety of 3-D targets, and even crossbow targets.

Let the archery pros at Buck & Doe’s Mercantile in San Antonio help you get ready for your next competition. Call or come by today!

What is an AR-15 Rifle?

The AR-15 is one of the most popular rifles in San Antonio

It is also one of the most misunderstood. An AR-15 rifle is not an “assault rifle” or a “weapon of war.” It’s just a semi-automatic version of the M16, which itself was first used by American soldiers in Vietnam. To really understand what an AR-15 is and how it works, you need to know its history and how it came to be so popular with Americans today. Learn more about this gun’s fascinating history below.

The history of the AR-15

The AR-15 may be one of the most popular rifles in America. Everyone knows what it looks like, but how many people know its history?

Because so many Americans own an AR-15, there has been a lot of misinformation about this rifle spread around by both pro and anti-gun groups. The central reason these firearms are misunderstood is political. This article will set the record straight on some common myths that have been circulating about this weapon for decades.

The “AR” doesn’t stand for “assault rifle”; it stands for Armalite Rifle – named for the small California company that designed the weapon. Military models were produced with firing modes, semi-automatic fire and either fully automatic fire mode or burst fire mode, in which the rifle fires several rounds in succession when the trigger is depressed. However, civilian models are semi-automatic only. Civilian rifles commonly have 16-inch or longer barrels to comply with the National Firearms Act. There are actual weapons of war, but the AR-15 is a gun designed for the sporting and competition use, and remains a top choice for home defense. 

What makes the AR-15 different than other semi-automatic rifles?

The AR-15 is a great rifle, but it can be confusing to know what makes an AR-15 different from other semi-automatic rifles.

Most semi-automatic rifles are designed for hunting and target shooting. They fire only once with each pull of the trigger, and they lack a “military style” appearance.

Magazine capacity and the military style appearance are the only real differences. The AR-15 is not an automatic weapon, it fires like any other semi-automatic rifle. However, the .223 standard ammo is actually much less powerful than other calipers available such as the .308 or 30-06.

Uses for an AR-15 rifle

There are three major reasons why people have an AR-15.

These are the main reasons why people purchase this gun. It can be used for all these things or just one of them depending on your needs and preferences. And with so many accessories available you can customize your AR to fit any need you have.

Many hunters prefer using AR-15 style rifles because of their versatility, accuracy, wide variety of available features, and wide variety of calibers. Collapsible stocks are convenient for hunters who pack their rifles into remote hunting locations or for length of pull adjustments to fit any sized hunter.

Today’s modern sporting rifles make a great platform for hunting, target shooting, competition shooting and home defense. These rifles are used by hunters, competitors, a lot of Americans seeking home-defense guns and by many others who simply enjoy going to an indoor shooting range in San Antonio.

Why people want to own an AR-15 rifle?

The AR-15 rifle is one of the most popular guns in America, but why?

There are many reasons people want to own an AR-15 rifle. Some like that it’s lightweight and easy to carry around, while others appreciate that it can be customized with different optics or stocks. Still others love shooting this gun because they believe in their right to bear arms, and it represents the freedom that we have as Americans.

If you’re interested in owning an AR-15 yourself, there are a few things you should know before purchasing one from your local gun shop.

  1. Make sure you understand all the laws surrounding ownership of this firearm where you live as well as any state laws if you plan on carrying your weapon outside your home state lines.
  2. Don’t forget about getting a good education on how to properly use and take care of your new purchase.
  3. Be a responsible gun owner and take a rifle training class to learn how to safely load, shoot, and unload your firearm. Practice is the responsibility of all gun owners.

How to buy an AR-15 rifle

Buying a gun in Texas can be hard, but it doesn’t have to be if you choose a reputable gun store in San Antonio. We all know that owning a gun is important for self-defense and hunting, but the process of buying one is confusing and intimidating.

There are so many different types of guns available, from handguns to shotguns and rifles like an AR-15. Which type of gun should you buy? What kind of ammunition do you need? How much will it cost? Where do I go to buy a firearm in Texas? These questions matter if you want your purchase to go smoothly without getting ripped off by unscrupulous dealers or being arrested for breaking the law.

As responsible, reputable, and ethical firearm experts, Buck & Doe’s Mercantile we will assist you every step of the way when buying your firearm and insure all Federal and State laws are fully complied with. Stop by our gun store in San Antonio today and let us help you customize an AR-15 to meet your needs.

Top 10 Things to Take with You When Bow Hunting

When planning your next bow hunting trip, always double check you have packed all of the essential equipment. Forgetting any of your equipment can significantly affect or even ruin your hunting experience. Here are the top ten things you should always bring with you.

Hunting Backpack

Your hunting backpack should be tailored around your target game and be able to store all of your equipment safely and efficiently for easy access. Size, shape, and weight are all points to consider when picking out your backpack. When you finish packing, make sure that the weight distribution of your backpack fits comfortably even if you don’t carry your backpack that often when hunting. Binoculars, range finder, flashlight and other necessary equipment should be organized and easily accessible.

Bow, Arrows, & Broadheads

Bring the bow that is best fitted to you, equipped with all the necessary archery accessories, and set to a suitable draw weight. Select the proper arrows and broadheads for the bow you’re shooting, draw weight you’re pulling, and the game you’re hunting. Don’t skimp on quality arrows, and make sure you have enough for practice and hunting. You should have arrows with field points for practicing archery, and broadheads for hunting.

Bow & Gear Hanger

Your bow and gear should always be within an arm’s reach. Select a tree or locations where you are able to install your bow and gear hooks or hangers so that your equipment is easily accessible but out of the way when it’s time to draw on your target game.

Archery Release & Clothing

Do not forget to bring one of your most important items, your release. Most honest hunters can remember the time they were getting settled in their spot and realized they left it on the shotting bench at home. Hunt ruined! It’s a good practice to keep a spare with your gear. Wear comfortable clothing that will not interfere with your draw, and sturdy hunting boots. Don’t forget your safety harness – and use it.

Field Dressing Kit

Your field dressing kit is a must have for all hunting trips. It can include latex gloves, a knife, knife sharpener, hand cleaner and game bags.

First-Aid Kit

Always be aware of your surroundings. In case of an accident, have a first-aid kit handy. Your kit should have items for common injuries and illnesses: sprains, fractures, cuts, scrapes, headaches, and allergic reactions. Ideally, it should also organize the items by injury with injury-specific instruction cards to help anyone quickly and confidently performing first aid.

Hunting License

Your hunting license should always be on your person when hunting. If you are wanting to spruce up your skillset before applying for one, check out the archery classes we offer to prepare you for a safe, successful hunting trip.  Make sure you understand all the rules and regulations specific to your hunting location and game species. Also, don’t forget to fill out your hunting log on your hunting license. Many a ticket has been handed out for this oversight.

Odor Eliminating System

The one thing that will make for an unsuccessful hunting trip is forgetting your odor eliminating spray or Ozone Generator. You do not want your scent spooking your game – and remember, deer have a strong sense of smell. Make sure to consider you trail into your hunting stand. You are leaving odor coming in that can also spook game animals. Many hunters use scent free bags and pre-treat their cloths before heading out to the woods. Remaining undetected is crucial to a successful bow hunt.

Map, GPS, or Compass

Keep track of where you are at all times with either a map, GPS signal, or compass. There are many apps to choose from that pinpoint you location on a map, give you weather and hunt condition updates, and even identify property owners and boundaries to make sure your hunting where you have permission.

Provisions

Lastly, pack water, snacks, and any other provisions that will keep you hydrated during your hunting trip. Hunting trips can last hours – much of it spent tracking and waiting – and under the Texas sun, waiting can be uncomfortable. Take care of yourself to keep your senses heightened.

Find Everything You Need at Buck & Doe’s Mercantile

Don’t stress if you are going over your packing list and find you are missing a few things. Stop by Buck & Doe’s Mercantile in San Antonio for all the gear you need and accessories you want to add. Our bow tech can make sure your bow is ready and tuned, and you can hone your skills at our indoor archery range. We are an Authorized Dealer for Mathews, PSE and Ravin Crossbows. Our impressive inventory of archery equipment and accessories will provide you with plenty of options to choose from!

What’s the definition of a straw purchase?

Straw purchases have several different meanings in both the business world and the firearm world. In accordance with firearm terminology, a straw purchase is when Individual A purchases a firearm for Individual B. But it’s a little more complicated than that. Here is how to fully understand what a straw purchase is, and why they are illegal.

The Purchasing Process

During the purchasing process of a firearm, a straw purchase is conducted by Individual A purchasing a firearm for Individual B, without including any of Individual B’s information for the firearm records or to the firearm specialist. In order to be in compliance with firearm regulations, the individual who will be in possession of the firearm needs to have their name, home address, date of birth, and other personal identifiers listed on the form, as well as the make, model, and firearm serial number on Federal Form 4473.  The buyer must also answer and certify a series of questions, related to their eligibility to own a firearm.

What is Federal Form 4473?

The Federal Form 4473 is the document that records each individual firearm purchase from federal licensed firearm dealers.

You Cannot Purchase a Firearm for Another Individual:

  1. You cannot purchase a firearm as a gift for another person, if you have reason to believe that the person is prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms.
  2. You cannot purchase a firearm for another person if you have reason to believe that they will use that firearm to commit a crime of any kind.
  3. You cannot purchase a firearm for another person in order to assist them in circumventing the mandatory background check.
  4. You cannot purchase a firearm for another person so that their name is not listed as a purchaser or possessor for a firearm.

Why Are Straw Purchases in Regards to Firearms Illegal?

Because Individual B’s information is not included in the firearm purchase, it places others at risk. Straw purchases are often how criminals obtain firearms, and it’s difficult to trace the firearm back to the correct individual when they are not documented as the purchaser. Additionally, Individual B would not have been subject to a background check because they did not provide their personal information on the form 4473 for the background check.

How to Avoid this Illegality?

If you are caught conducting a firearm straw purchase, you will be held accountable by a court of law. To avoid this headache, visit our gun shop at Buck & Doe’s, where we follow proper protocol according to federal guidelines. Better to be safe than sorry!

Visit our website to see what our professionals can do for you today!

Choosing the Right Concealed Carry Firearm

Find the Right Concealed Carry Firearm for You

There are several things to consider when choosing the right concealed carry firearm. While it is easy to focus only on the style and caliber of the firearm, there are other aspects that should also be taken into consideration: Accessibility and sizing, shooter abilities, firearm functionality, and the ideal place to find qualified staff to receive assistance with the purchase of your firearm. Understanding what each of these factors entails will help you find a firearm you are comfortable with in San Antonio, TX.

Style and Caliber of Your Concealed Carry Firearm

Preferability is up to individual discretion. For example, some concealed carriers prefer revolvers as opposed to semiautomatics. But regardless of styling choice, here are the questions you should ask yourself prior to purchasing your concealed carry firearm:

  1. Are you able to hold your concealed carry handgun in a single hand without losing control of it?
  2. Do your fingers reach the trigger properly?
  3. Are you able to pull the upper receiver and lock it to the rear without expelling too much effort?
  4. Can the magazine be easily ejected when you are holding it?
  5. Are you able to comfortably lift the concealed carry with one hand – straight in front of you – as though you were aiming directly in front of you?
  6. Does your non-dominant – or supporting hand – interfere at all with the gun’s operation or aiming?

With the exception of question six, should you answer any of these questions with a “no”, the firearm you selected may not be the right fit for you. Until you can answer all of these questions affirmatively, remain patient as you continue your search with our experts at Buck & Doe’s.

In regards to caliber, the answer is simpler than you think. If you are able to shoot a bullseye target efficiently, quickly, comfortably, and most importantly – more than once, you have selected the right caliber for you. Try varying calibers to feel confident that you have made the best choice. Consider the recoil. Does it cause you any discomfort or apprehension? If so, move on to another caliber until you are certain you are comfortable with the recoil.

Accessibility and Sizing

With your concealed carry firearm, purchasing a holster is strongly recommended. The most popular holsters are the inside-the-waistband holsters, but there are other options as well. There are pocket holsters, shoulder holsters, outside-the-waistband holsters, and more. Find one that makes your concealed carry firearm easily accessible to you. Check and make sure the sizing of the holster matches the firearm you will carry; too tight of a holster will cause your firearm to be difficult to grasp, and too loose of one can cause the firearm to fall out. Upgrade or replace your holster every few years for safety precautions.

Shooter Abilities and Functionality

Ideal Places to Purchase Firearms

When shopping for any firearm – concealed carry or otherwise – always visit a gun shop that has experts to assist you. At Buck & Doe’s, not only do we have experts but we are equipped with a state-of-the-art indoor shooting range to practice with your newly purchased firearm. We also offer firearm rentals if you are not comfortable with purchasing just yet. Do not waste anymore time, our experts are ready to assist you with finding the perfect concealed carry firearm!