For Novice: Revolver or Semi auto?

F

Firepower!

New member
Hi
I want to which is better (semi or revovler) for a Novice who does not practice often, and is only equiped with handgun to act efficiently in a situation?

I am leaning towards a revolver for such person (who is my cook). What do you think?
 
Neither.

A revolver's double action trigger takes some work to become proficient with. One of the most difficult firearms to gain proficiency with is a DA only "J" frame.

Semiautos do not suffer the unpracticed especially well either.

How about a lupara of the type described by Cooper?
SxS, double triggers, exposed hammers.
 
You just described myself. I spent the better part of a year reading, learning all I could about handguns. I was intent on a semi, but after what I learned over that time convinced me a revolver was the better first choice.

I recently purchased a S&W 642. I do intend to practice with it, because of the learned process of such a small gun.

I am sure in the near future, there will be semi's in my safe, but for now, I'm happy learning with the revolver.
 
I'd suggest you or (your cook) try out some different handguns -- pistols and revolvers.

And also get some practical handgun training after you choose a sidearm .

If I may be a bit inquisitive, why are you arming your cook?

Good luck, keep us updated on your progress. :)
 
I vote for a revolver. You don't have to worry about a safety or whether there is a round in the chamber or not. Besides a revolver can be cocked and shot SA, just not rapidly.

DAO semi triggers aren't any better than revolvers IMO, DA/SA have different trigger pulls that could throw off a beginner, and SA have to be carried cocked and locked by a beginner(!) or he will have to remember to cock the hammer.

Semis are probably easier to shoot IF everything works OK - no FTF, FTE, etc.
 
I don't know your situation, but I think something like a Glock or xD may be a good route.
NOTE: Make sure they are SAFETY conscious!

The reason I made that suggestion:
1. Simple trigger. There is a lesser learning curve on lighter triggers, IMO. I find that shooting lighter triggers accurately is easier, expecially when compared to a 12 pound DA trigger.

2. Reliability (a well-maintained Glock/xD usually runs like a tank)

3. Capacity (if it is to be used for defense as well--however this is subject to local conditions)

If possible, have them try out a few types.
 
I vote for the revolver and add this: I have a J-frame 38 snubby and a hi-capacity 9mm. My wife is not into guns, but if she needed to defend herself at home alone, she would instinctively reach for the revolver. So I keep the snubby near the beside in case it's her who needs it.

I know you said there would be little practice, but a j-frame has not been at all difficult to master after a couple of rehearsals. If double action proved too formidable to master, you could always opt for exposed hammer j-frame models.
 
A novice can learn to use a revolver a bit easier than a semi-auto. While it will still take some training and practice with a revolver to become competent; you don't have to learn as many malfunction drills.

Of course there are trade-offs.
 
I'd say the revolver. It's almost foolproof. When loaded, it's always ready for immediate use. Point, squeeze trigger, bang.

No safeties to fumble with, slide to rack, or magazine to fall out.
 
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