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newbie looking for advice on 1st handgun...
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Member Posts: 346 ✭✭✭
Hello all,
I am in the market to buy my first handgun & will be carrying it concealed. I was looking at the Ruger 9mm (friend just bought one) but have seen too many responses that they are a bit bulky & or heavy to carry concealed.
I know this is a general question but what is a good direction for a reasonably priced pistol - around $200-$400 range? I want something that is a good size to conceal, somewhat lightweight, reliable & a gun that doesn't need maintenance ALL the time... Please ask questions if it helps! I just don't want to go out on a whim & purchase the first "cool" gun I see! [?]
Thanks!
I am in the market to buy my first handgun & will be carrying it concealed. I was looking at the Ruger 9mm (friend just bought one) but have seen too many responses that they are a bit bulky & or heavy to carry concealed.
I know this is a general question but what is a good direction for a reasonably priced pistol - around $200-$400 range? I want something that is a good size to conceal, somewhat lightweight, reliable & a gun that doesn't need maintenance ALL the time... Please ask questions if it helps! I just don't want to go out on a whim & purchase the first "cool" gun I see! [?]
Thanks!
Comments
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When you ask advise, everyone has a different opinion. If you find the gun that is comfortable to you, then get feedback on that specific item, you will be better off. At least that's my 2 cents....
Aaron
I do have an older Browning Hi-Power that I love, very reliable- but what usually goes on my belt for a trip to the store is a wheel gun.
But you can ask 10- people, and get 12 different answers. Find the one you like, and fits you. But for CCW, the first criteria should always be WORKS first time, every time.
How you intend to carry and what type of holster you will be using, will have a great influence on the type of handgun you are going to purchase.
You really have 2 questions; i.e. what's a good first handgun, and what's a good gun for concealed carry. IMHO a good d.a. .38 or .357 is the best answer to both questions. That said, a good .22 would be the best first handgun; a nice semi-auto could be a better concealable piece with comparable power.
For both needs in one handgun, though, I'd go back to the d.a. revolver.
Good luck.
I definitely second the opinion to go to a gun shop with a range where you can rent a few different guns. See what feels good to you. No sense wasting $300 - $400 on a gun that is recommend to you that you never carry because it does not 'feel" right to you.
Whatever you decide on, practice with it a lot. Shoot cheap ammo through it as well as your intended (more expensive) carry ammo. You need to make sure it eats whatever you plan on feeding it to save your life.
Good luck on your search. let us know what you decide.
I sell alot of C&R & antique firearms on GB auctions but never get to play with many modern handguns. I do like the simplicity & look of the revolver & maintaining them looks very easy.
My FFL friend I occasionally use to ship firearms gave me a business card for a company she recommends that offers Concealed Weapons Classes. I think I will call then to see if they offer rentals at their range. I agree hands-on is the best way to get a good idea what I like/dislike. I think I may ask my FFL if she wants to go to the range also as she like to practice & well she's got alot of used handguns...We do alot of business & maybe she will cut me a good deal.
The S&W 642 looks nice. Is it a large gun - it looks like it is... I have heard alot of good comments about the model 36 & 37.
Stupid question - what does d.a. stand for?
Rufe-snow, I hadn't thought about the type of holster or how I want to carry. I guess I have much to learn. What other options are there besides hip or shoulder?
Again, thanks for all the replies! Got me fired up to go take classes!
Holsters? Shoulder- right side up, or upside down, or sideways. Hip? Strong side, crossdraw- inside the waistband, or outside? leather, nylon, or synthetic? There is even an ankle holster, and fannypack holsters. Even a crotch holster (google Thunderwear- really!)
Myself, for a Model 36/37/38/60, use an Uncle Mikes Inside-the-waistband= holster is soft synthetic (like suede) with a belt clip, and Velcro retaining strap for gun. Slips inside waist of pants, lip hooks over belt to hold in place. Inexpensive, easy to conceal or use, and keeps gun from falling down your pant leg.
DO find a good CCW class, and DO try different guns to see what works for you.