The Louisiana Firearms Podcast #5 | Best starter guns?

Published on April 24, 2026
Duration: 35:44

This episode of the Louisiana Firearms Podcast features a lively discussion among hosts and guests about the best starter handguns and current EDC choices. The conversation highlights popular models like the Sig Sauer P365 XMacro, Glock 19, Glock 43X, and Glock 45, emphasizing factors such as concealability, capacity, and ergonomics. The hosts also touch upon the importance of personal comfort and training over specific firearm features when selecting a carry gun, with a brief discussion on rifles towards the end.

Quick Summary

The best starter handguns, according to the Louisiana Firearms Podcast, include the Sig Sauer P365 XMacro, Glock 19, Glock 43X, and Glock 45. Key factors for selection are personal comfortability, reliability, and the ability to shoot accurately under stress, with training being crucial for effective self-defense.

Chapters

  1. 00:27Intro & Best Starter Handguns Discussion
  2. 01:16Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Mention
  3. 01:23Sig P320 & Walther PDP Discussion
  4. 02:00Criteria for a Starter Handgun
  5. 02:11Sig X Macro vs. Glock 19 for Beginners
  6. 02:37One and Done Handgun Philosophy
  7. 03:07Glock 19 vs. Glock 43X for Starters
  8. 03:38Sig 365 XMacro as a Starter
  9. 04:16Other Good Starter Handgun Options
  10. 04:45Top Three Starter Handguns Ranking
  11. 05:15Ranked Top Three Starter Handguns
  12. 05:58Sig 365 Standard vs. Macro for Starters
  13. 06:10Glock 19 as a Starter Rifle
  14. 06:29Runner-Up Starter Handguns: FN 509 & HK VP9
  15. 06:57Personal Top Three Starter Handguns
  16. 07:36Defining Starter Handguns: Carry, Duty, Competition
  17. 07:53Sig Sauer C4X as a Carry Option
  18. 08:10Sig Sauer CS for Concealed Carry
  19. 08:30Sig 365 XMacro with Wilson Combat Grip
  20. 08:45Glock 43X with Upgrades
  21. 09:11Smith & Wesson Shield X as a Starter
  22. 10:00First Handgun Ever Discussion
  23. 10:16First Handgun: Glock 19 Gen 3
  24. 10:34First Handgun: Kimber Custom Works .45 ACP
  25. 10:44First Carried Handgun: Glock 48
  26. 11:10First Handgun: Springfield XD .40/.45
  27. 11:46First Handgun: Taurus G2C/3C
  28. 11:53Current Daily Carry Handguns
  29. 12:01Daily Carry: Glock 45 or Sig 365XL
  30. 12:20Detailed Glock 45 Carry Setup
  31. 13:19Why Switch from Glock 19/45 for Carry
  32. 13:31Sig 365XL with Irons Only for Carry
  33. 14:03Daily Carry: Staccato CS and Sig 365
  34. 14:21Current Carry: Staccato C4X on P4 Frame
  35. 15:00Gun Choice vs. Training: Does it Matter?
  36. 15:18Comfortability and Reliability in Carry Guns
  37. 16:09Comfort with Micro vs. Full-Size Handguns
  38. 17:33Reasons for Switching Carry Handguns
  39. 18:13Post-Shootout Preference for Full-Size Grip
  40. 19:16Importance of Training and Competition
  41. 21:37Transition to Rifle Discussion
  42. 21:52First Rifle: LMT 11.5
  43. 22:06Starter Rifle Criteria: Off the Shelf
  44. 23:15Top Three Starter Rifles: Sig M400, LWRCI DI, Sig Spear
  45. 24:51Top Three Rifles: LMT, Geissele Super Duty, Sig M400
  46. 25:26Detailed Rifle Recommendations
  47. 26:35Geissele Super Duty, BCM, and LMT for Rifles
  48. 28:58First Rifle Discussion
  49. 29:17First Rifle: Left-Handed Rock River Arms
  50. 30:06First Rifle: Geissele URGI with Aimpoint T2
  51. 30:23First Rifle: Diamondback with MRO
  52. 30:54First Rifle: BCM 14.5
  53. 31:08Current Rifle Setups
  54. 31:14Current Rifle: Radian Lower Build & LMT 11.5
  55. 31:42Current Rifle: 12.5 Geissele Super Duty
  56. 31:56Current Rifle: Criterion Barrel Build
  57. 32:35Current Rifle: Geissele Super Duty Upper
  58. 33:31Rifle Choice vs. Training: Same as Handguns
  59. 34:16General Consensus: Comfortability & Training
  60. 34:34Viewer Input Request: First vs. Current Firearms
  61. 35:00Final Thoughts: Comfortability is Key
  62. 35:16Don't Carry What You're Not Comfortable With

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best starter handguns recommended by the Louisiana Firearms Podcast?

The Louisiana Firearms Podcast hosts frequently recommend the Sig Sauer P365 XMacro for its balance of capacity and concealability. Other top starter choices include the Glock 19, Glock 43X, and Glock 45, praised for their reliability and ease of use for new shooters.

What factors are most important when choosing a starter handgun for concealed carry?

The primary factors emphasized are personal comfortability and the ability to reliably place shots on target under stress. While capacity and concealability are important, a firearm you are comfortable with and trained on will be more effective for self-defense.

Are there any recommended starter rifles discussed on the podcast?

Yes, the podcast discusses several starter rifle options. Top recommendations include the Geissele Super Duty, Sig Sauer M400, and LMT (Lewis Machine & Tool). For a more budget-friendly option, BCM (Bravo Company Manufacturing) is also suggested.

Does the type of firearm matter more than training for self-defense?

The consensus is that while firearm choice is important, training and comfortability are paramount. Adequate training, especially competition shooting, helps build confidence and proficiency, making you more effective with any reliable firearm you choose to carry.

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