Hi.
I live in New York, one of the stricter anti-gun cities.
I'd like to purchase a handgun for self-defense. I've had the occasional run-in, but last night affected someone else. My girlfriend called me up as she was coming off the train station, four blocks from our house -- she was being harassed by some typical crackhead/rapist, and didn't tell me what the F was going on: "Leave quickly!", and that was it. My brother and I thought there was a group of idiots out there (my neighborhood is a bit notorious for that), so we grabbed the knives, and ran out. Luckily for us, and perhaps for the culprit, he was gone by then. That was the end of it.
Regardless, I'd like to stop taking chances. I'm not much of a fan of weaponry or violence, but I'd rather not get stabbed at night. So, I have decided to buy a gun for me and my girlfriend, and have a few questions (I am 20 years old, by the way):
1) I was looking at some online stores. Which one is the best ?
2) What is a dependable, inexpensive beginner's gun, with little recoil ? Remember, this is not for show; just a self-defense tool I will hopefully never have to use.
3) I obviously cannot get a "concealed carry" permit in New York City. At the same time, I do plan on fully registering it, with all the permits required, etc., for at-home use. I also plan on taking it outside with me occasionally, depending on where I'm going (e.g., coming home late at night on the subway; walking long distances at night). I have no criminal history, am well-regarded in the community & university, etc. -- knowing all of that, what would be the penalty if I do get stopped and discovered in New York City ? Although I don't think that will ever be a problem, as I've never been stopped once, anywhere, I'd still like to know the risks.
Thank you !
I live in New York, one of the stricter anti-gun cities.
I'd like to purchase a handgun for self-defense. I've had the occasional run-in, but last night affected someone else. My girlfriend called me up as she was coming off the train station, four blocks from our house -- she was being harassed by some typical crackhead/rapist, and didn't tell me what the F was going on: "Leave quickly!", and that was it. My brother and I thought there was a group of idiots out there (my neighborhood is a bit notorious for that), so we grabbed the knives, and ran out. Luckily for us, and perhaps for the culprit, he was gone by then. That was the end of it.
Regardless, I'd like to stop taking chances. I'm not much of a fan of weaponry or violence, but I'd rather not get stabbed at night. So, I have decided to buy a gun for me and my girlfriend, and have a few questions (I am 20 years old, by the way):
1) I was looking at some online stores. Which one is the best ?
2) What is a dependable, inexpensive beginner's gun, with little recoil ? Remember, this is not for show; just a self-defense tool I will hopefully never have to use.
3) I obviously cannot get a "concealed carry" permit in New York City. At the same time, I do plan on fully registering it, with all the permits required, etc., for at-home use. I also plan on taking it outside with me occasionally, depending on where I'm going (e.g., coming home late at night on the subway; walking long distances at night). I have no criminal history, am well-regarded in the community & university, etc. -- knowing all of that, what would be the penalty if I do get stopped and discovered in New York City ? Although I don't think that will ever be a problem, as I've never been stopped once, anywhere, I'd still like to know the risks.
Thank you !