What would be a good first pistol?

I should receive my pistol permit in the next couple months and I can't make up my mind......45,357,44, 9mm, 38???? No particular use, just indoor range and concealment. What would be a good first pistol?

A good first pistol would be a .22. Cheap ammo, light recoil, you'd learn to shoot without developing (hopefully!) any bad habits. However, if you must get something bigger, 9mm would be the way to go. Again, cheap ammo, (but not as cheap as .22) and light recoil. (but not as light as a .22)

Just my accurate (hopefully!) advice I've learned lurking here

Edit:Oh, where are my manners? Welcome to The High Road!

I agree with Cosine here, a .22 pistol would be a great first gun. I have a Walther P22 that I love to shoot. If you want something with more punch for protection, I would go with a 9mm or a .357. The 9mm is cheap to shoot and is great for personal protection. If you want a revolver, I would go with a .357 because you can shoot .38s in it for practice/range and stoke it with some good .38+p or .357 for protection. Welcome to THR.

Agreed, a quality .22LR handgun will provide hours of enjoyable
entertainment~!:D Models such as Browning's BuckMark, Ruger's MK-II
(or III); or Smith & Wesson models 17 (617), or 18 would be perfect.

Buy the best quality 22 pistol or revolver you can find and the shoot the tar out of it. This will teach you gun safety, breathing control, trigger breaks and work on your accuracy. Nothing in my opinion can be better then this. My recommendation for a good 22 lr pistol is the Beretta 87t, S&W 41 or possibly a High Standard if you can find one. For a revolver, S&W k22 Masterpiece or DW 722 for ease of cleaning.

Isaman2000
You can have tons of fun with a 22lr revolver,
very cheap to shoot,very low recoil and it's
not very loud.

22lr semi-auto,same as above,maybe a little
less money to buy.Semi-auto's can be picky
about the ammo they like.

38spl or 357mag revolver,you should be able
to find a good used one for 200-250 bucks.
Pretty easy to learn on,they will have more
recoil and muzzle blast than a 22.The ammo
will cost more than 22lr's but it's not to bad
for 38spl's.

9mm semi-auto,lots of different guns to pick
from in a wide range of cost.9mm ammo is
pretty cheap to buy and easy to shoot from
a decent sized pistol.

I would forget about .22's and directly go for a 9mm. They are good guns for self-defense (which .22's are not) and quite cheap to shoot. Try for example a SIG 220 or 226 ( I am Swiss so I am biaised towards SIG's, but, anyway, go for a 9mm, they are easy to shoot but quite powerfull).

Yep, go with a 22 pistol or revolver for your first handgun. I like the Ruger Mark II (or III) as it is cheap and functions reliabily. Not a CCW gun though. Look at the S&W line of revolvers for a 22 or dig up a wonderful older Colt in Diamondback, Trooper (original or Mark III), or a Woodsman varient. Since you are not going to purchase a 22 for primarily self defense, I lean toward the target grade guns for general shooting at the range or in the field.

For carry, I like the 40 S&W Glock 23 (medium sized pistol) or a S&W 442/642 (38spl). All the Glocks are extremely reliable no matter what caliber or model you choose. They are reasonably priced as well. I looked at the 442 a lot of times at the gun store and finally bought one as a CCW gun. For non-carry but home defense, the Ruger GP100 is hard to beat in 357/38. I prefer Smiths and Colts, but that is your call. You'll get 200 different recommendations. There are so many choices. A lot of people like the Kel-tec's (pocket pistol); don't have any experience with them.

Go to a well stocked gun store during the week and really handle a lot of guns. Then do the rental thing at a range. Get what fits for you.

My first gun was a Glock 26. I learned to shoot with that gun. It's good to start with a .22, but if you're going to use one gun for target shooting and home protection, and you want a centerfire, I'd probably get a full size 9mm. A CZ-75 or Beretta 92 would have soft recoil but also be plenty adequate for defense. A 4" .38 revolver might also be a good choice.

Right now I'm leaning towards a Glock 30 or Glock 33. What's the msrp and performance on these guns?

I would suggest a Glock 19 or a S&W 686 4". You can shoot .38's out of the 686 until you are ready for the .357's. The G19 is just an all around great gun for range or carry. Plus the 9mm round is very inexpensive comparitivly. Check out Topglock.com for prices. They seem to be the consistantly the cheapest as far as I have seen. Their price on a G30 is 525, last time I checked. The G30 is highly regarded by those who shoot it. I used to own one and loved it. Sold it to a friend so I could buy a 1911. It is now his favorite handgun and I still get to shoot it. I think the 1911 is smoother but it is hard to compare the two.

Good quality 22lr revolver as a first handgun. Get some rounds down range, develop your 'style' and then get something that suits your wants & needs. The 22 will allow you ALOT of trigger time and they are ALOT of fun

I would forget about .22's and directly go for a 9mm. They are good guns for self-defense (which .22's are not) and quite cheap to shoot. Try for example a SIG 220 or 226 ( I am Swiss so I am biaised towards SIG's, but, anyway, go for a 9mm, they are easy to shoot but quite powerfull).


You make a very good point. The nines are ( I think ) the cheapest "serious" defense rounds to shoot lots of in a reliable, accurate, and concealment-friendly platform. A used Glock wil probably cost less than a brand new, high quality .22, and if you have to, you can bet your life on it. Enjoy !

I would recommend a Ruger MkII .22LR as a first pistol. Cheap and fun to shoot.


Then, in no particular order (or quantity):

S&W 686
1911 style
SIG 226
SIG 220
S&W 629
S&W J-frame
Glock 30

The list goes on.......

Right now I'm leaning towards a Glock 30 or Glock 33. What's the msrp and performance on these guns?

Among the Glocks those are two pretty different guns. A G30 is fatter and short and shoots the .45 and the G33 is a subcompact shooting the .357 Sig...from your choices it seems you may be more interested in concealed carry than range use. Both guns run in the $500 to $550 range from what I've seen. .357 sig is a little harder to find than 'ol .45acp when buying ammo in places like Wal-Mart. Both are good defensive calibers, but in my opinion if this is your first pistol go with the G26 in 9mm with a couple of mags with the pinky extension and one without (for carry). 10 rounds of 9mm is plenty of firepower and its alot cheaper to practice with. Of course you may not care what ammo prices are! I don't know your finanacial position. 9mm is a pretty easy shooter too and you may find yourself wanting to shoot it more. A G19 would also be a good choice for range and concealment. Handle them all, because the G30 does feel signifigantly fatter in many people's hands.

If you intend for it to be a self defense weapon, 9mm is a great 1st pistol. The ammo is cheap enough to encourage practice and it is adequate for stopping power. Get a commonly accepted and proven brand that fits your hand well. Rent a few first to help decide what manual of arms you prefer. Don't go too cheap. SIG Glocks Berettas HK Smith Ruger Walther P99 all are proven systems that offer some nice choices. A .22 is great for practice, but is not a good choice for personal protection. If would be asked, These would be tops on my list for a first 9mm.
SIG 226 or 228
Glock 19 or 17
HK USPF / USPC / P2000 (a bit expensive but very nice)
Keep us posted on your choice!

I like the Glock 19 but im realling digging the subcompact Glock 26. I really like the smaller guns. Does the size of the gun matter when comparing these two?

Its the size of the grips that will feel different. The 26 grip will be shorter even with the mag pinky extension.
Like I said above I have a G19 and I think it is the perfect size.

glock 26 is easier to conceal and has less ammo capacity (assuming you use the native G26 mag) then a G19, but other then that they both shoot about the same. Either model is a winner. I own a G17 and a G26, and love em both (the G26 is my carry gun naturally).

Not to denigrate Glocks -- but I strongly advise against any Glock for a first pistol. Highly recommend any traditional double-action (DA/SA) for one's first semi-auto, the reason being one can then get used to both the longer DA trigger pull and the lighter SA pull. Glock's trigger pull is unique, and I have seen cases where newer shooters, having been exposed first to Glocks, have had significant problems when then using TDAs, SAs or DAOs ...

I'm also in the camp with those who recommend a 9mm for someone's first autopistol. Easy shooting, accurate, inexpensive. Not substantially more difficult to learn on than a .22 in my opinion.

Perhaps a pistol such as the CZ-75 C (or PCR or P-01) would be an excellent choice. Available in decocker models or with a safety, small enough to conceal quite effectively, great fun at the range (also relatively inexpensive, high-capacity and stone reliable -- as well as usually capable of excellent accuracy).

Find a shooting range that rents pistols you're interested in and try them all out. Nothing better than the actual experience of shooting the gun to tell you which one is just right for you. Pistols with shorter barrels are not as easy to control as longer barreled one's, especially for one just getting started. I shoot my 5' 1911 .45acp better at 50/25 yards than I do my S&W 37 "snubnose" with 1-5/8" barrel at 21 feet. For the range, I shoot .22lr's at lot (NRA Bullseye). Nothing beats $99/5000 rounds of Aguila SE ammo. For CCW, I have a Glock19 9mm and a J-Frame S&W37 .38spl.

I don't necessarily buy into the "buy a .22 first" camp - I think ya should go w/ a 9mm - The rounds are fairly cheap, and it is also a good defensive gun.

I love my Glock 34, which comes w/ a stock lighter trigger pull, but I never did shoot any other Glock decently.

For a first gun - I think the Beretta 92FS would be a good gun. Metal gun, so not as much muzzle flip. A Walther P99 with the AS trigger is also a good gun - great ergonomics.

Ruger semi-autos are probably the cheapest gun I would buy and still rely on - they are built like a tank. But, many people, once they get into guns further, end up trading this gun because the triggers are not the best.

Thanks for all the info everybody, my next question is which is the better gun for self defence/shooting range?- A Glock 9mm(19,26) or Glock 30?

This question is sure to start up the debate on shot placement vs. size of wound channel etc. Also up for debate is the ability for quick, acurate follow up shots. I would personally go for the 9mm as you would be able to follow the intitial round with more acurate follow-up shots. Oh heck, just buy both, once you get a Glock you will want another one anyway.:D

Thanks for all the info everybody, my next question is which is the better gun for self defence/shooting range?- A Glock 9mm(19,26) or Glock 30?

For self-defense, "9mm vs .45ACP" is one of the hugest debates to ever arise on any gunboard. Long/short, there are tons of educated individuals arguing for either side, so just try both and go with your gut.

For range use, I'd definitely go 9mm: it will have even less recoil (not that .45ACP is bad), and more importantly, .45ACP ammo tends to cost 50% more than 9mm. So you'll get more bang for your buck with the 9mm, literally.

Plus the 30 is a little chunky in the grip for some folks, since the .45 round is wider than the 9mm round, so the G19/26 will be easier to grip for a wider range of folks.

If you're only going to have one gun for a while, definitely get the full-caliber first, for defensive reasons. But a .22 pistol will be a great addition should you find yourself shooting on a regular basis. As mentioned above, you can get a conversion kit, but I prefer to have two independent firearms (so two folks can shoot at the same time, or so that one damaged frame won't put both pistols out of commission). I love the Ruger MkII, many folks love the Buckmark. Or if you want something to contrast with your semi, check out the Ruger Single Six (full-size .22LR cowboy-style revolver).

Not to dissuade you from getting a Glock, but it wouldn't hurt to glance at the Springfield XD or CZ 75 pistols if they have them at your store. Similar quality, slightly lower price, and each has their own very devoted following here on THR.

You really can't go wrong if you buy a good-quality 9mm pistol and practice shooting it, so don't stress out too much. Find a 9mm that appeals to you and start shooting. Stay safe,

-MV

I should receive my pistol permit in the next couple months and I can't make up my mind......45,357,44, 9mm, 38???? No particular use, just indoor range and concealment. What would be a good first pistol?


I too had been in that same situation lastweek...and got myself a Glock 19 after seeking advice from members of this community. No regrets. i love my g19 :) . Also, I'm planning to get a .22lr pistol soon. a ruger maybe. Goodluck on your decision

I would forget about .22's and directly go for a 9mm. They are good guns for self-defense (which .22's are not)

I would carry my 22 anywhere as a defense provided I had my permit. Maybe not be alot of power but that's what the Mag cylinder is for. I carry it now in a quick draw holster so that it's not concealed (just get a few weird looks and wouldn't reccomend going into a biz with it in the open lol). I see what you are saying Nick but a 22 is lethal and would work it just wouldn't pack as much of a punch as the 9mm or larger calibre guns. If you are wanting to find something to shoot just to get the hang of shooting I wouldn't say go for the best my first pistol was a lorcin L380 (junk gun) but I like shooting something cheap such as a jennings j-22 or a ravem MP-25 both of which can be found for under $50 they are considered junk but hey for the price they are fun to play with I have a J-22 i grabbed for $30 just as a throw around who cares if it breaks gun.

a 357 j frame snub, or a 4 incher. got the 357 for CCW and .38s for target.. get into reloading and you can save even more money.

hey there,
welcome to the world of being able to own a handgun. i got my permit in 1989. dont know where the time has gone. im in rochester, not far from you. my dad likes johnsons gun shop in lockport, or the cabin range in wrights corners on lockport olcott road. i used to go there as a kid to buy .22 shells back in the early 70's. either one will give you a fair deal. i'm a colt guy, so for your gun, if it were me i'd get a colt 45 acp. you can buy them used in .380 cal, or new in a variety of calibers. for your first one regardless if you buy a colt or not , buy a good one, smith and wesson, colt, high standard, walther, ect. get a good one for two reasons. 1 if you dont like it you can get most of your money back when you sell it, and 2 if you do like it you have a great handgun to own. lots of people just want a cheap gun, lots of cheap guns, but you get what you pay for . both in performance, and resale value when you sell it. not to mention pride of ownership too. spend between $500 and $1000 on your gun if you can do it and tell your gun dealer you want quality with good resale value. sorry to be so long winded, but basically, you get what you pay for. stick with a named brand that is known for quality.

good luck and say hi to the people at the cabin range and johnsons from the Gilson's.

palerider1

My first gun was a Glock 26. Wished I keep it. If I would have, I now would own two glocks 26 a 9MM and a Glock 23 40 cal. Love both.

If you choose a Glock 26, I highly recommend get a set of Pearce grips for the magiazies. Pearce grips make all the defference in the world to be able to fit the hand.

http://topglock.com/catalog/extensions.htm


A Hugue grip is nice also. http://topglock.com/catalog/grips.htm

For personal protection arounds, I suggest Federal highdro shockers when you move up to carry for self defence.

Chuck

For what your looking to use it for, a SS Mid-Frame 357Revolver..... with a 3'' Barrel.

First pistol? My recommendation:

http://www.ruger-firearms.com/Firearms/images/Products/94L.gif

http://www.ruger-firearms.com/Firearms/FAProdView?model=185&return=Y

I purchased mine new for significantly less than MSRP.

I don't necessarily buy into the "buy a .22 first" camp - I think ya should go w/ a 9mm - The rounds are fairly cheap, and it is also a good defensive gun.

I agree completely. My first handgun was chambered in 9X19MM.

I definatly want a Glock 9mm but im still considering the Glock 45 cal. I picked up the Autopistols 2005 magazine special on Glocks, alot of info if anybody else is interested

Before settling for sure on that .45 Glock, be sure to try it in person if at all possible -- at the very least, try handling it at a gunshop. Doublestack .45s tend to be awful thick around the grip, and many folk (including yours truly) find them darn uncomfortable.

When I finally realized that the G30 I had just didn't fit very well, I went to a gunshop and picked up one of just about every pistol there, trying to find one that felt "right." In my case, it was a newer model 1911 (flat mainspring housing, beavertail, etc).

It may well be different for you.. but at least try a few before plunking down the money based on what a magazine (or internet site) says about the latest and greatest wonderpistol.

:)

Greetings all! Just bought my first gun earlier tonight. After a lot of internet reading I had decided to start with a .22. (as opposed to the .41mag or .45acp hand cannons that first caught my eye.) I "stumbled" onto a 6" Dan Wesson 22 revolver and won the auction. I live in IL. I have sent away for my state FOID card and am chagrined to find out the State Police are waaaay backlogged. IF I ever get to shoot the thing I'll report back!

Welcome aboard THR, Jaim!

Sounds like you put some good thought into your first purchase. I'm not really clear on Illinois legalites, but I take it that your revolver will be shipped to your local FFL dealer, there to wait for however many weeks it takes you to get an "FOID"?

Make sure to drop back into the Revolver forum with pics and a range-report once all the bureaucracy works its way through, and let us know how your first gun worked out. -MV

I recommend a CZ-75 variant in 9MM and the .22 conversion Kadet Kit. It is tremendous for practice and is just plain fun to shoot. f you are going to carry the gun the compact alloy CZ-75's like the CZ-75D PCR or P-01 are superb and the Kadet Kit fits perfectly on these. Best of both worlds.

Since this is intended to use as a CCW weapon, the G19 is almost just as concealable as the G26 with a pinky extension.

For pure comfort however, the G19 is on top. That pinky hanging on the grip just plain sucks to shoot. Then, when you get the pinky extention, why not just get the G19. All that the G26 has then is the shorter barrel.

For regular shooting, it should be taken notice that larger guns usually are easier to shoot. They have longer sight radius and fill the hand more comfortably.

Try the G19, I seriously recommend it as opposed to the G26. For my reasons stated above.

Good luck and wecome aboard to THR