Top 5 Things To Consider When Buying Your First Handgun

Published on May 12, 2023
Duration: 26:52

When buying your first handgun, consider budget (ideally $300-$800), caliber (9mm recommended for balance, but .380 ACP and .38 Special are viable), and size/weight for concealability and shootability. A proven design from a brand with at least 20 years of history is advised for reliability and support. Proper grip technique is crucial to avoid issues like limp-wristing, especially with semi-automatics; revolvers are more forgiving in this regard.

Quick Summary

When buying your first handgun, consider a budget of $300-$800 for a reliable firearm. 9mm Luger is the recommended caliber for its balance of power and shootability. For beginners, revolvers are often easier to operate than semi-automatics, which can be prone to limp-wristing malfunctions if not gripped firmly. Choosing a proven design from a reputable brand with at least 20 years of history is also advised.

Chapters

  1. 00:12Introduction: First Handgun Decision
  2. 00:20Why Handguns for First Firearm?
  3. 01:32Focus on Handguns
  4. 02:38Criterion 1: Budget for Your First Gun
  5. 05:10Criterion 2: Caliber Selection
  6. 07:15Caliber Recommendations (.380, .38 Special, 9mm)
  7. 08:15Criterion 3: Size and Weight Considerations
  8. 09:03Handgun Capacity
  9. 10:32Criterion 4: Does It Fit Your Hand?
  10. 13:02Criterion 5: Limp Resting Explained
  11. 14:55Revolver vs. Semi-Automatic for New Shooters
  12. 18:51Criterion 6: Proven Design and Brand
  13. 20:51Size and Weight Revisited (Glock 19 vs. 43)
  14. 23:02Accessories and Aftermarket Support
  15. 24:50Conclusion and Mug Club Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended budget for a first handgun?

For a first handgun, a budget of $300 to $800 is generally recommended. This range allows for reliable, accurate, and easy-to-shoot firearms without significant compromises on core functionality, though some features might be absent on lower-end models.

Which handgun caliber is best for a beginner?

While .380 ACP and .38 Special are viable for self-defense, 9mm Luger is the most recommended caliber for new handgun owners. It offers a good balance of power, manageable recoil, excellent bullet selection, and is widely available and cost-effective.

Should I choose a revolver or a semi-automatic for my first handgun?

For new shooters, especially those not committed to regular training, a revolver is often recommended due to its simpler operation and immunity to limp-wristing malfunctions. Semi-automatics require more attention to grip technique to function reliably.

What does 'limp-wristing' mean when buying a handgun?

Limp-wristing refers to a weak grip on a semi-automatic firearm, which can cause malfunctions like the slide failing to cycle properly. This is particularly common with polymer-framed pistols and can be avoided with proper training and a firm grip.

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