r/canadaguns • u/-lman2186 • Mar 18 '26

Buy recommendations Suggestions For First Purchase

Hey yall, Long time lurker first time poster. After waiting my 6mths (thanks to the CFO here in ONT) I finally got my card in the mail. Looking for recommendations for a good starter purchase that won't break the bank. I kind of have my mind set on .22LR just given the cost of ammunition. Personally am not the biggest fan of leaver actions but am open to any input.

Thanks all!

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u/Iokua_CDN Mar 19 '26

3 types  of guns that give  you access to a lot if fun.

  1. A 22lr rifle. Highly recommended as first rifle. Tons of options. Grab a semi auto or a bolt action for cheap and lots of ammo and you can blast  away for a long long time. Easily a great 1st gun.

  2. A shotgun, probably a pump action  for the best price. A cheap shotgun let's you dip your toes into shooting clays which is an absolutely brilliant time. As well, between birdshot, buckshot and slugs, you have so much options. Less good for an indoor range but shooting clays is a whole different sport and really fun.

  3. Centerfire rifle is the last of the 3. Really you got a few options. A cheap Sks rifle is a classic, and still the best deal for a semi auto center fire rifle.  But you may want a bit more modern features and accuracy, so a modern bolt action is a valid option over an Sks.  Whether you go a smaller Caliber like 223 or 7.62x39, or going bigger like a 308, both are good.  Lever actions also can fit  this group, but you mentioned not liking them so I'll skip them for now.  This option can get you into hunting as well, and if you do a bolt action,  possibly some long range shooting too.

With those 3 types of guns, you can so pretty much everything.  Start with the 22 and then decide if you want the Centerfire or the shotgun next.  Pricewise the centerfire will cost the most, while the 22lr and the shotgun can be had for very cheap! So I'd go the 2 cheap ones first