[softballa04]

I sold my .243 rifle last night and have $200 to buy a handgun. Will have to go the used route. I was just wondering if there is anything someone would suggest for a newbie to handguns.

[symr00]

What would you be using it for? That might give us a better idea.

Hunting
Home/Business defense
concealed carry
plinking

[softballa04]

I'm sorry I should of said that and I didnt even think about it.

Hunting
Home/Business defense

I might carry it with me when Im deer hunting but it would be used for my house. I could even maybe see myself plinking with it everyonce in a while.

[moewadle]

that you buy a 22 calibre revolver. You could probably get a Ruger Single Six in very nice used condition for around $200 or perhaps a bit less. To me, it is hard to recommend any other calibre for a first handgun. 22 is very inexpensive to shoot and will be most likely the least expensive calibre handgun, revolver or auto loader, to purchase. Owning one will give you the ability to learn handgunning cheaply. I do not know where and what you hunt so it is certainly not be the ideal gun for protection against large animals, such as bears, and it is not the best home defense gun....but it probably the best all around choice for a first hand gun. After you become really acquainted with handgunning you can decide further. Later you could use it as a trade-in on another handgun that you would prefer if you want to own only one handgun and want something else. That is why I would recommedn buying a name brand gun like Ruger. It will keep its value.

[knoxx45]

Sometimes you can find good deals. I'd look for a Ruger SP101. You can find them used for $200-$250 in good condition if you do your home work. Its a .357, so you can use the .357 for hunting and defense, and cheap 38's to practice. Also look out for a Tarus Tracker. They are pretty good guns for the money.

[softballa04]

thanks for the suggestions. I actually just talked to my dad who used to be a dealer a couple years ago and he said that he has a Ruger SP101 that he could probably make me a deal on. Any other suggestions people.

[miko]

For hunting and home defence, definitely a 4-6 inch revolver in .357. That's a most practical and most versatile - especially the 4-inch that can be carried concealed.

22 is not a practical handgun for hunting/defence as much as a training tool.

miko

[Ala Dan]

Probably, for $200 you might can find a good USED S&W model 10; but
in my neck of these ole' woods used guns are scarce. Seems like anyone
who owns a handgun is holding on too them~!:uhoh: At least until after
the '08 Presidential race is over.:scrutiny: :D

[dam8]

Why not a ruger single six?, then, a blackhawk in 357 would be a good big brother to hunt with. Same style, and frame size

[10-Ring]

For $200, I'd go w/ a used S&W wheelgun in 357 magnum.

[symr00]

If you can get that SP101 for $200, I would jump on it. It would serve all your needs mentioned if it is .357 magnum. It will probably last your lifetime, too:)

[jzimm9mm]

I would put my vote in also for a .357 revolver. Rugers are very solid revolvers with modest price tags. However, unless you get an insider's deal on the gun, you might have to shell out more than $200. I paid almost $350 for my used stainless 6" GP-100. Maybe I just got ripped off. GP-100 or SP-101 would fit your uses quite well. As stated before, get at least a 4" barrel for hunting/home defense.

Jer..

[RVSinOK]

If you want to be able to hunt with it, I would agree that a .357 revolver with a 4 inch (or more) barrel is your best bet. If all you are looking for is home/business defense, you can pick up a Makarov (9x18mm) for around $129, and a bunch of ammo for the other $70!

[Run&Shoot]

I think the SP101 is a great deal. Maybe other places sell used revolvers for $200, but I have never seen them. Especially stainless and .357.

The SP101 is built like a bank vault. I had one and traded it and now wish I had not.

Yes, a 4" K frame or Gp100 might be the ideal for general purpose use, but I doubt you will find them for $200 and more likely at $300. If you find one in your price range then grab it.

For $200 I would jump on that SP101 like right now. You won't be sorry.

[CornCod]

You know, its funny, maybe I live in a screwy part of the world, but I have never seen a used SP-101 for 200 bucks. I have seen a few S&W Model 10's for that price, but they look pretty beat up. I am not talking "nicks in the wood and worn bluing" but the "former career as a boat anchor" category.

[Rotorflyr]

I'm going to have to agree with moewadle, that for a 1st handgun, a .22 would be your best bet.
For now use one of your hunting rifles (or shotguns if you have one) for defense and while you get more comfortable/familiar with handguns, save some money and down the road, buy a bigger caliber.

[Gord]

you can pick up a Makarov (9x18mm) for around $129

Maks are pretty scarce these days - got a link?

If you mean locally, I'd be willing to buy offa you... $129 is a good price.

[wuchak]

If you can get an SP-101 for $200 grab it. Otherwise I would look at that $200 as the start of a handgun fund and try to add another couple hundred to it. You're list of choices will open up tremendously at the $350 mark.

Cheap guns are like cheap women. They might feel great for a moment but you'll reget it in the long run.

[possum]

thanks for the suggestions. I actually just talked to my dad who used to be a dealer a couple years ago and he said that he has a Ruger SP101 that he could probably make me a deal on. Any other suggestions people.

revolvers are always good guns to start off with, do it. i think you will be pleased!

[buck00]

Cheap guns are like cheap women. They might feel great for a moment but you'll reget it in the long run.


Amen to this advice.

Get a paper route, have some patience and save up a little. For $300 to $500 your options and the level of quality increases many times over.

[roscoe]

For CCW, a smaller handgun is desireable, but for hunting, a 4" .357 is a good compromise. Really, a 4" .357 is a great do-it-all handgun. For $200 you can get a used Service/Security/Speed Six, which is among the best ever made, and rugged as hell.

[badhatharry]

;) I would suggest you go to a range that rents handguns and try a few out. When I was looking for a ccw I rented a 101...I shot about 6 rounds of .357 and realized this wasn't going to work for me. While you're there you might run across somebody selling a weapon or the range might even have some used for sale. Good luck