Help with buying a gun
- Thread starter madorno1
- Start date
TriumphGuy
New member
Best advice I can give you is go to the range and rent a few. Keep in mind also, if you want to shoot a lot, the current price of ammo dictates that a .22 is a good investment for practicing with. It's at the bottom of the food chain for defense, but $15 a box for centerfire ammunition will add up fast.
jersey_emt
New member
Congratulations on obtaining your permit and exercising your Second Amendment rights.
Your best bet is to find a local range with a large selection of rental guns. Try as many as you can -- different calibers, different brands, different sizes, etc. -- the more the better.
For more specific recommendations we will need to know more about how you intend to use your first gun.
Will it be used for home defense? Concealed carry? Just range and target shooting? Or some combination thereof?
A nice and well-made .22 LR semiautomatic, like a Ruger Mark III or a Browning Buck Mark, is an excellent first handgun for range use and learning the basics of shooting. The .22 LR round has very little recoil and is dirt cheap to shoot. However, it is not an effective round for self defense purposes.
A full-size 9mm semiautomatic, like a Glock 17 or a Sig Sauer P226, is an excellent first handgun for home defense. Loaded with proper ammunition (high-quality hollow points), it is an effective self-defense caliber. Recoil is significantly more than .22 LR, but less than larger calibers like .40 S&W or .45 ACP. It is also generally the cheapest effective self-defense ammunition.
A subcompact 9mm semiautomatic, like a Glock 26 or Kahr CW9, is an excellent first handgun for concealed carry. Felt recoil can be significantly higher in these small, lightweight guns -- shorter barrels, smaller grips, and less weight all contribute to an increased amount of felt recoil compared to full-size handguns.
All of the above recommendations for specific guns is not a full list of which guns are good choices for the various roles. They are simply representative examples of what is out there, and should be considered simply as a starting point and not specific recommendations. There are too many good handguns for an exhaustive list, and in your "hands-on" testing you may very well find a brand or model of gun not listed above that works much better for you. Remember that in the end, you will be the one purchasing the gun, and you will be the one shooting the gun. It is therefore of paramount importance that you find the best gun that fits your hand well, that you are able to shoot well with, and that meets your specific requirements.
Also, you mentioned that you want a semiautomatic pistol, but please don't discount revolvers. Be sure to try a few revolvers before making your final choice. You may find that a revolver might work better for you. Many people think of revolvers as more "primitive" handguns, but that is an incorrect assumption. The choice of a semiautomatic versus a revolver is oftentimes a heated debate, but in the end, each have their own benefits and disadvantages.
Your best bet is to find a local range with a large selection of rental guns. Try as many as you can -- different calibers, different brands, different sizes, etc. -- the more the better.
For more specific recommendations we will need to know more about how you intend to use your first gun.
Will it be used for home defense? Concealed carry? Just range and target shooting? Or some combination thereof?
A nice and well-made .22 LR semiautomatic, like a Ruger Mark III or a Browning Buck Mark, is an excellent first handgun for range use and learning the basics of shooting. The .22 LR round has very little recoil and is dirt cheap to shoot. However, it is not an effective round for self defense purposes.
A full-size 9mm semiautomatic, like a Glock 17 or a Sig Sauer P226, is an excellent first handgun for home defense. Loaded with proper ammunition (high-quality hollow points), it is an effective self-defense caliber. Recoil is significantly more than .22 LR, but less than larger calibers like .40 S&W or .45 ACP. It is also generally the cheapest effective self-defense ammunition.
A subcompact 9mm semiautomatic, like a Glock 26 or Kahr CW9, is an excellent first handgun for concealed carry. Felt recoil can be significantly higher in these small, lightweight guns -- shorter barrels, smaller grips, and less weight all contribute to an increased amount of felt recoil compared to full-size handguns.
All of the above recommendations for specific guns is not a full list of which guns are good choices for the various roles. They are simply representative examples of what is out there, and should be considered simply as a starting point and not specific recommendations. There are too many good handguns for an exhaustive list, and in your "hands-on" testing you may very well find a brand or model of gun not listed above that works much better for you. Remember that in the end, you will be the one purchasing the gun, and you will be the one shooting the gun. It is therefore of paramount importance that you find the best gun that fits your hand well, that you are able to shoot well with, and that meets your specific requirements.
Also, you mentioned that you want a semiautomatic pistol, but please don't discount revolvers. Be sure to try a few revolvers before making your final choice. You may find that a revolver might work better for you. Many people think of revolvers as more "primitive" handguns, but that is an incorrect assumption. The choice of a semiautomatic versus a revolver is oftentimes a heated debate, but in the end, each have their own benefits and disadvantages.
imthegrumpyone
New member
jersey, it may not be our choice but I wouldn't say a .22 is not an effective self defense round. There are many pushing daisies from a .22. madorno1 take your time and pick out something your comfortable with, you have time to make changes as you go. Welcome to TFL. 
I would for sure try a few different handguns first....
if I may be so bold, where are you located in S.C.?
feel free to private post me if you want.... I may be able to help you out with a place to shoot and such.
Personally I like 9mm... the basic reason is it is by all accounts an 'adequate self defense round' and much less expensive to practice with than say the 40 cal, 10mm or 45 acp.
As you probably know, what of the advantages to now having your S.C. permit is when you decide to purchase that handgun... even though you still have to fill out the gobment form there is not phone call and wait for some bureaucratic employee to 'scan you' on the super computer...
if I may be so bold, where are you located in S.C.?
feel free to private post me if you want.... I may be able to help you out with a place to shoot and such.
Personally I like 9mm... the basic reason is it is by all accounts an 'adequate self defense round' and much less expensive to practice with than say the 40 cal, 10mm or 45 acp.
As you probably know, what of the advantages to now having your S.C. permit is when you decide to purchase that handgun... even though you still have to fill out the gobment form there is not phone call and wait for some bureaucratic employee to 'scan you' on the super computer...
Tommy Vercetti
New member
Glock 22?
spacecoast
New member
I have heard those Glucks leave something to be desired 
If you don't have a lot of money or experience, I think the Walther P22 is right up you alley. As far as self defense? It has 10+1 shots that can be unloaded/shot in about two-three seconds, and it's super easy to keep on target while shooting.
I think you should get the P22 for practice, and SD for now, as it's better than nothing and very cheap to practice with. If, and when you get good enough shooting that, I wouldn't hesitate carrying it for the time being until you get enough money for a more powerful gun.
TBS, when your at the range with your new P22, you can always ask other people what they are shooting, and a lot of times they will let you take a few shot's and maybe they might want to take a few shot's with your gun.
Another good Idea is buy a box of 9mm target FMJ. Most people won't mind you put a full mag of name brand ammo through there gun, and they might even tell you a little bit about there gun. You'll save a lot of money on rentals that way too.
I think you should get the P22 for practice, and SD for now, as it's better than nothing and very cheap to practice with. If, and when you get good enough shooting that, I wouldn't hesitate carrying it for the time being until you get enough money for a more powerful gun.
TBS, when your at the range with your new P22, you can always ask other people what they are shooting, and a lot of times they will let you take a few shot's and maybe they might want to take a few shot's with your gun.
Another good Idea is buy a box of 9mm target FMJ. Most people won't mind you put a full mag of name brand ammo through there gun, and they might even tell you a little bit about there gun. You'll save a lot of money on rentals that way too.
johnwilliamson062
Moderator
If you are planning to shoot very much at all it makes a whole lot of sense to buy a 22. If you shoot one box of centerfire and half a bulk box of 22s every time you go to the range you will be much better off, both financially and proficiency wise, than if you shoot several boxes of centerfire IMO
Three handguns I recommend for new shooters and all are 22s:
Ruger MKII or MK III if you can't find a MKII. Great accuracy, easy to use, great ergonomics.
OR
A P22. My first gun was a P22. It familiarized me with many of the features/maintenance of many centerfire pistols which the Ruger will not. I did sell that first P22 to another budding shooter and bought a MK II with the money eventually though. I don't think I will ever feel like I have outgrown my Stainless MKII hunter.
OR
Ruger single Six.
Buy one of those and take it to the range a few times. If you see anyone shooting a gun you like ask them a few questions about it and tell them your situation. They may offer to allow you to shoot it or at least handle it, if not you can look for a rental at your local ranges.
For your second gun I recommend a Glock for a double stack magazine or Kahr for a single stack centerfire and a Ruger Revolver if you want a wheel gun. Of course, stainless where applicable.
Three handguns I recommend for new shooters and all are 22s:
Ruger MKII or MK III if you can't find a MKII. Great accuracy, easy to use, great ergonomics.
OR
A P22. My first gun was a P22. It familiarized me with many of the features/maintenance of many centerfire pistols which the Ruger will not. I did sell that first P22 to another budding shooter and bought a MK II with the money eventually though. I don't think I will ever feel like I have outgrown my Stainless MKII hunter.
OR
Ruger single Six.
Buy one of those and take it to the range a few times. If you see anyone shooting a gun you like ask them a few questions about it and tell them your situation. They may offer to allow you to shoot it or at least handle it, if not you can look for a rental at your local ranges.
For your second gun I recommend a Glock for a double stack magazine or Kahr for a single stack centerfire and a Ruger Revolver if you want a wheel gun. Of course, stainless where applicable.
I'll say it again:
The "best" gun is the one YOU like, not anyone else. It will be a compromise of:
1. Fit - It should fit in your hand like you were born with it there.
2. Reliability - It should go BANG about 99.8% of the time you pull the trigger.
3. Accuracy - In YOUR hand. It's how well YOU shoot it.
4. Concealability - It should be comfortable enough to wear and easy enough to conceal so you won't leave it laying on the dresser at home.
5. Cost - You don't want to scrimp on your "life protector" weapon, but you probably don't need a $1,000 Kimber, either.
The "best" gun is the one YOU like, not anyone else. It will be a compromise of:
1. Fit - It should fit in your hand like you were born with it there.
2. Reliability - It should go BANG about 99.8% of the time you pull the trigger.
3. Accuracy - In YOUR hand. It's how well YOU shoot it.
4. Concealability - It should be comfortable enough to wear and easy enough to conceal so you won't leave it laying on the dresser at home.
5. Cost - You don't want to scrimp on your "life protector" weapon, but you probably don't need a $1,000 Kimber, either.
What I Have vs What I Want
For super concealed carry my Kel-Tec .380. I paid $300.00 for the chrome slide model. In a Galco wallet holster it disappears in my pocket.
For open carry I have a Smith and Wesson SV9 9mm - holds 17 rounds and I got it for $240.00 with 2 extra magazines. Not a top of the line 9mm but it will get the job done.
I also have 2 .357s that are a bit on the heavy side for CC but they make good bed side revolvers. A used Model 19 I got for $300.00 - I paid high but I really wanted a model 19
. A brand new ruger SP101 I picked up for $385.00.
For getting better at shooting a Ruger Mark III .22 that I bought for about $250.00. That .357 ammo gets expensive! I can shoot the .22 all day with my son, daughter and friends for not a lot of money.
Some day I want to spend some serious money and get a compact .40 for concealed carry. I was thinking about a Sig or Kimber. Something in about the $1000.00 range or under. I am taking my time and shopping around.
Spend some time asking questions. Decide what is important to you. Cost/weight/stopping power. If you can, shoot before you buy.
For super concealed carry my Kel-Tec .380. I paid $300.00 for the chrome slide model. In a Galco wallet holster it disappears in my pocket.
For open carry I have a Smith and Wesson SV9 9mm - holds 17 rounds and I got it for $240.00 with 2 extra magazines. Not a top of the line 9mm but it will get the job done.
I also have 2 .357s that are a bit on the heavy side for CC but they make good bed side revolvers. A used Model 19 I got for $300.00 - I paid high but I really wanted a model 19
. A brand new ruger SP101 I picked up for $385.00.For getting better at shooting a Ruger Mark III .22 that I bought for about $250.00. That .357 ammo gets expensive! I can shoot the .22 all day with my son, daughter and friends for not a lot of money.
Some day I want to spend some serious money and get a compact .40 for concealed carry. I was thinking about a Sig or Kimber. Something in about the $1000.00 range or under. I am taking my time and shopping around.
Spend some time asking questions. Decide what is important to you. Cost/weight/stopping power. If you can, shoot before you buy.
Adding to the message
I have to agree with CWPinSC, his points are valid - we are talking about your life protector. Take the $230 that you'd likely spend on the Walther P22 and put it toward your primary SD weapon.
Didn't you have to fire a weapon to qualify for your permit? Whose weapon did you use?
It sure seems likely that you know at least one other guy/gal who has a pistol for SD.
The idea of renting at a range is a great one too. Investing the $35-50 in range rental and a box of "range ammo" is a very good way to familiarize yourself with what's in their local marketplace...and many ranges will sell their rental guns at a discount.
I like Glocks, Sigs, Rugers, Beretta's, S&Ws, Kimbers, Kahrs, Keltecs, Colts, Brownings, FNHs, Walthers, etc. for SD, but you've got to decide on one that you're comfortable with FIRST!
Look at the ammo prices in your local store, and you'll likely see that 9mm is both less expensive (economical) as well as plentiful. There are highly effective cartridges in 9x19mm and 9x19mm+P. It's a great first self protection caliber. As is .38 special or .357 or .327 Mag. LoL
Go shoot. Then make your decision.
If you don't like it, bring it to the boards and trade for something you think you'll like better.
Have fun with it!
And welcome to a whole, new, brave world.
I have to agree with CWPinSC, his points are valid - we are talking about your life protector. Take the $230 that you'd likely spend on the Walther P22 and put it toward your primary SD weapon.
Didn't you have to fire a weapon to qualify for your permit? Whose weapon did you use?
It sure seems likely that you know at least one other guy/gal who has a pistol for SD.
The idea of renting at a range is a great one too. Investing the $35-50 in range rental and a box of "range ammo" is a very good way to familiarize yourself with what's in their local marketplace...and many ranges will sell their rental guns at a discount.
I like Glocks, Sigs, Rugers, Beretta's, S&Ws, Kimbers, Kahrs, Keltecs, Colts, Brownings, FNHs, Walthers, etc. for SD, but you've got to decide on one that you're comfortable with FIRST!
Look at the ammo prices in your local store, and you'll likely see that 9mm is both less expensive (economical) as well as plentiful. There are highly effective cartridges in 9x19mm and 9x19mm+P. It's a great first self protection caliber. As is .38 special or .357 or .327 Mag. LoL
Go shoot. Then make your decision.
If you don't like it, bring it to the boards and trade for something you think you'll like better.
Have fun with it!
And welcome to a whole, new, brave world.
CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow, 9mm
http://www.czub.cz/en/catalog/79-pistols-cz/PST/CZ_75_SP-01_SHADOW.aspx
CZ 97B , .45 AUTO
http://www.czub.cz/en/catalog/79-pistols-cz/PST/CZ_97_B.aspx
CZ 97BD , .45 AUTO
http://www.czub.cz/en/catalog/79-pistols-cz/PST/CZ_97_BD.aspx
CZ 75 KADET CONVERSION KIT
http://www.czub.cz/en/catalog/79-pistols-cz/PA/CZ_75_ADAPTER_KADET.aspx
http://www.czub.cz/en/catalog/79-pistols-cz/PST/CZ_75_SP-01_SHADOW.aspx
CZ 97B , .45 AUTO
http://www.czub.cz/en/catalog/79-pistols-cz/PST/CZ_97_B.aspx
CZ 97BD , .45 AUTO
http://www.czub.cz/en/catalog/79-pistols-cz/PST/CZ_97_BD.aspx
CZ 75 KADET CONVERSION KIT
http://www.czub.cz/en/catalog/79-pistols-cz/PA/CZ_75_ADAPTER_KADET.aspx
skydiver3346
New member
Which gun to purchase?
Well, you mentioned you received your gun carry permit so I would assume you want a gun for self defense? Not just for plinking (which the .22 would be great for). However, if strictly for self defense, I would suggest a minimum caliber like a .38 special. Probably a revolver such as a S&W, Ruger etc. Reasonably priced and very dependable. Ammo sure cost more than the .22 ammo but the .38 special does a far better job for self defense round than the .22 bullet (in my opinion). Good luck and congrats on your permit.
Well, you mentioned you received your gun carry permit so I would assume you want a gun for self defense? Not just for plinking (which the .22 would be great for). However, if strictly for self defense, I would suggest a minimum caliber like a .38 special. Probably a revolver such as a S&W, Ruger etc. Reasonably priced and very dependable. Ammo sure cost more than the .22 ammo but the .38 special does a far better job for self defense round than the .22 bullet (in my opinion). Good luck and congrats on your permit.
lee n. field
New member
What do you want it for? What purpose is it going to serve?
Madorno, . . . as you are a new shooter, . . . please keep in mind a few of those "first things first" lessons.
Your first need is to learn how to safely handle any firearm you may pick up. That can be had at most ranges generally for free, . . . just look for one of the "old timers" there, . . . or ask the owner or manager of the place. They don't want their place shot up, . . . they'll be usually more than happy to go over the "manual of arms" of any gun they will sell or rent to you.
The reason I say this? The Glock family of handguns has been a very popular and well purchased group. BUT, . . . BUT, . . . in the top ten line of "Safest" handguns out there, . . . they could never get even close to the top.
Their design requires a person with some discipline and training behind them and that is especially true of trigger discipline. I have been shooting handguns for well over 40 years, . . . have shot several Glocks, . . . would not own one because I believe their design is basically unsafe.
Another thing to consider, . . . if you get Jersey_emt suggested, . . . a Ruger or Browning .22 auto, . . . as your first handgun, . . . you will have a safer and much cheaper platform from which to learn. Keeping it for a while, . . . as you learn to shoot it, . . . you could save enough in ammo prices in the not too long future to afford the next purchase, . . . a center fire pistol, . . . and you by then will have a better idea of your needs and wants.
May God bless,
Dwight
Your first need is to learn how to safely handle any firearm you may pick up. That can be had at most ranges generally for free, . . . just look for one of the "old timers" there, . . . or ask the owner or manager of the place. They don't want their place shot up, . . . they'll be usually more than happy to go over the "manual of arms" of any gun they will sell or rent to you.
The reason I say this? The Glock family of handguns has been a very popular and well purchased group. BUT, . . . BUT, . . . in the top ten line of "Safest" handguns out there, . . . they could never get even close to the top.
Their design requires a person with some discipline and training behind them and that is especially true of trigger discipline. I have been shooting handguns for well over 40 years, . . . have shot several Glocks, . . . would not own one because I believe their design is basically unsafe.
Another thing to consider, . . . if you get Jersey_emt suggested, . . . a Ruger or Browning .22 auto, . . . as your first handgun, . . . you will have a safer and much cheaper platform from which to learn. Keeping it for a while, . . . as you learn to shoot it, . . . you could save enough in ammo prices in the not too long future to afford the next purchase, . . . a center fire pistol, . . . and you by then will have a better idea of your needs and wants.
May God bless,
Dwight
