DON'T GET THAT! : How to Choose the Right Handgun (Step-by-Step)

Published on December 9, 2025
Duration: 29:49

This comprehensive guide walks beginners through choosing their first handgun by defining purpose, understanding different sizes and action types, and evaluating usability. It emphasizes the importance of proper fit, control reach, and crucially, renting and shooting potential firearms to determine accuracy and comfort before purchasing. The video also covers essential safety protocols and the importance of ongoing training.

Quick Summary

Choosing your first handgun involves defining its purpose, understanding different sizes and action types (striker vs. hammer-fired), and evaluating usability. Crucially, test the fit and shoot your top choices at a range to determine comfort and accuracy before buying. Prioritize training and safety protocols throughout the process.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Choosing Your First Handgun
  2. 00:20Step 1: Define Your Purpose
  3. 01:01The 'Do-It-All' Purpose Handgun
  4. 02:01Handgun Sizes Explained
  5. 03:43Types of Semi-Auto Pistols: Striker vs. Hammer Fired
  6. 04:54Best Action Type for New Owners
  7. 05:41Usability Factors: Recoil and Magazine Loading
  8. 07:30Choosing Your Caliber
  9. 08:05Self-Defense Ammunition
  10. 09:03External Safeties: Pros and Cons
  11. 10:14The Holster as a Safety Device
  12. 11:08Ease of Disassembly
  13. 13:54Pricing Considerations
  14. 15:30The Importance of Training
  15. 16:20In-Store Etiquette and Testing
  16. 17:33Checking the Chamber
  17. 18:20Advice from Clerks
  18. 18:54Determining Hand Fit
  19. 19:14Key Areas for Handgun Fit
  20. 20:18Texturing and Ergonomics
  21. 22:30Grip Testing and Support Hand Placement
  22. 23:54Reaching Controls: Magazine Release & Slide Lock
  23. 26:04Contoured Trigger Guards
  24. 27:04The Most Important Step: Range Testing
  25. 27:59Analyzing Range Targets
  26. 29:14Recommended First-Time Handguns
  27. 29:44Conclusion and Viewer Comments

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key steps to choosing your first handgun?

The process involves defining your purpose (conceal carry, home defense, etc.), considering handgun sizes (full-size, compact, sub-compact), understanding action types (striker vs. hammer-fired), evaluating usability like recoil and magazine capacity, and crucially, testing fit and accuracy at a range before purchasing.

What is the best type of handgun action for a beginner?

Striker-fired pistols are generally recommended for beginners due to their consistent trigger pull weight and distance every time, which simplifies the learning curve compared to hammer-fired systems with variable trigger pulls.

How important is the fit of a handgun for a new owner?

Handgun fit is critical for control and accuracy. Key areas to check include your index finger's reach to the trigger guard, how your pinky finger grips the handle, and ensuring your knuckles align correctly for a secure, non-slip grip.

Should I get a handgun with an external safety?

For self-defense, an external safety is often not recommended unless you train with it extensively, as it can be forgotten under stress. A well-fitting holster that covers the trigger guard is typically sufficient for safety with striker-fired firearms.

What is the most important step when selecting a first handgun?

The most important step is to rent and shoot your top choices at a gun range. This allows you to assess which firearm feels most natural in your hand, is easiest to control, and yields the best accuracy for you personally.

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