I don’t think goals have to start with the new year. New Year’s resolutions are, in my opinion, just goals that happen to coincide with a new set of calendar pages. That said, though, I’ve decided to set a goal, not just for this coming year, but for every year into the future. I want to buy a new gun every year, starting with this year.
Not just any gun. I would like to save up my pennies specifically for one firearm each year, and that gun will be a good one. I think I’m going to start with a new over-and-under for upland bird hunting and trap shooting. I’ve been wanting one for a long time, and this year I intend to make it happen. I have a specific one in mind, and it’s going to take most of the year to save up for it. I’m hoping to have it by the end of the summer, so I’ll have a chance to take it to the trap range and get familiar with it before the pheasant season starts, but if it takes me until December to save up enough for it, at least I’ll have it for next year.
Then next year, I think I’d like to get a really good concealed-carry pistol. Again, I have an idea of what I want, but since it’s next year’s goal, I have plenty of time to try several different handguns out and decide on the one I want to save up for.
Maybe the year after that will be a good long-distance rifle. Or maybe a collectable antique Winchester Model 73. I’m not sure yet, but I have plenty of time to make my plans.
The bottom line is I think buying one gun a year is a good plan. I don’t think there’s such a thing as too many guns, but there is a point where you can’t enjoy all the guns you have if you have more than you can shoot. Adding one a year gives you a chance to get good with them before you get the next one.
Here’s hoping 2026 brings you the gun of your dreams, too.
