How to Choose a Handgun

If you’ve never owned a handgun, then you’re probably wondering where to begin. And while there are plenty of options to choose from, there’s usually a logical choice for every individual. This article will attempt to provide clarity on how to identify the correct firearm for your needs.

6 Tips for Choosing Your First Handgun

There are many reasons to own a firearm. From self-defense and home protection to hunting and competitive shooting, firearms serve a variety of purposes

Here are some helpful tips you can use to select your first handgun:

1. Consider Your Needs

Start by asking yourself one fundamental question: Why do you want a handgun? 

Some people want a handgun for home defense. Others want a handgun for concealed carry purposes.

Some people want a handgun with a large magazine capacity, while others are fine with a simple six-shooter.

Some people want a handgun they can carry as a backup when hunting in the woods. Other people want a handgun that can be used for competitive shooting.

The point is that everyone wants something different. Consider your needs and let that dictate the type of firearms you evaluate.

2. Semi-Auto or Revolver?

The first major decision you must make is whether you want a semi-automatic handgun or a revolver. Semi-automatics, also known as self-loaders, are the most commonly purchased handguns on the market today. Cock the gun once and you’re good to go. As soon as you fire, the gun automatically loads the next round into the chamber and cocks the firing mechanism. This happens repeatedly until the magazine runs out of ammunition.

A revolver, on the other hand, requires more work. These older western-style firearms typically hold five or six rounds. Shots are fired using either a single-action or double-action mode. With a single-action fire, you have to first manually cock the gun with your thumb. Once cocked, you pull the trigger. Double-action mode is where a single long and heavy trigger pulls the cock and releases the hammer in one fell swoop.

3. Select a Caliber

Once you’ve chosen between semi-auto and revolver, it’s time to focus on caliber. This is the type of cartridge a gun is designed to fire. It’s a critical choice in the process of selecting a handgun and will determine everything from accuracy and recoil to cost and weight.

Generally speaking, cartridge power, recoil, and effectiveness all go up along with the bullet diameter, weight, and velocity. This means a 9mm isn’t going to be as powerful as a .40, which is slightly less powerful than a .45.

Choosing a caliber is highly dependent on dozens of factors that can’t be exhaustively outlined here. If you’re unsure how to choose the right caliber, you’ll want to do some careful research and speak with a firearm’s professional. 

4. Think About Physical Size

Caliber refers to the size of the actual cartridge and ammunition. But you also have to think about the physical size of the gun – particularly if you’re planning on carrying. For example, there are 9mm guns that can easily fit in a pocket. Then there are others that are so large it would be impossible to conceal inside of your clothing. Consider the factor (as well as the size of the gun in your hand).

5. Consider Your Budget

How much do you have to spend? Are you looking for something that costs less than $300? Or do you have the ability to spend upwards of $1,000? The good news is that there are firearms in every price range. Identify your budget and then see what options are available. 

6. Test at the Firing Range

Never purchase a firearm without first firing it at the range. You should fire at least 50 rounds through any gun you’re serious about buying. During this “test drive”, ask yourself questions like:

  • Is it easy to operate?
  • Does it fire easily?
  • Am I confident in my accuracy at short range?
  • Do I feel comfortable with the safety mechanisms?

Don’t purchase a firearm until you feel comfortable with it. If the gun doesn’t feel right in your hand, try out a different model. There are always more options – never feel like you have to purchase a particular kind.

Adding it All Up

Large, small, sleek, classic, practical, beautiful, black, silver, new, pre-owned…there are hundreds of different choices to make. However, if you keep these tips in mind, you’ll find it easier to get clear on which firearm is right for you.