preparing to buy my first handgun

[Mrcymstr]

I didn't buy it... I politely refused while internally laughing and I didn't even try to shoot it it just wont hold a magazine he had the mag duct taped to the mag-well... I again thank you all I'm still unsure but this is helping quit a bit just to have like minded people willing to help. I love the whole thr community!

Edit: it was a 9mm kurz/short (sp?)

 

[BCRider]

Which is apparently the same as .380acp.

Good for you for "politely" turning him down. I don't know the price of .380 down south but up here it's WAY more costly than 9mm and hard to find to boot.

 

[MachIVshooter]

Incidentally, my first hadgun was a .357 (Ruger Security Six) and my second was a 1911 (Colt MK IV SS). I still have both. You really can't go wrong with either.

That said, the .22 will certainly allow you to shoot a lot more.

 

[Shadow 7D]

Look around, fondle the goods
it's like the first girlfriend, you talk a to a bunch of people, almost get one a few times
finally get your feet wet, and after first one or two, you get the hang of it.

A used .22, isn't a bad place to start, ammo is cheap, most can be had a decent prices, and I would say, for a first gun you should stick to common models from a major QUALITY gun maker, the chances of getting a lemon is greatly decreased.

 

[JustinJ]

If you are simply looking for a gun for home defense and occasion plinking purchase which ever you like best that you can afford to buy and shoot on occasion. If you intend to take up shooting as a hobby and want to become proficient then a .22 is not a bad idea bc you will be able to afford lots of practice.

 

[goon]

I've also owned 1911's and a Security Six. I have had bad luck with 1911's but hope to have a good, reliable one some day. I know they exist... and was tempted to buy an STI not too long ago just because it was for sale... but I haven't gotten one yet.

You might check out what CDNN has for sale. They often have police trade in or close out deals. Also, you might check out Rugers. Especially used, I've seen them well below $300 for a good quality 9mm.