sturmgewehr667
member
^ wow, i wish i could buy you a case of beer, because this os one of the first times someone has actually been polite to me on the internet
garand? jk
garand? jk
Wanting to buy my first gun and need some advice
- Thread starter epaget
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ShadyScott999
Member
Based on the original question and not 30+ plus posts of "my favorite".
All of your choices are very good. You will be well served to start with the 10/22, and SP 101. Start from there and evolve.
All of your choices are very good. You will be well served to start with the 10/22, and SP 101. Start from there and evolve.
chuckusaret
member
Go to a gun show/shop and look at every pistol, pick them up, hold them, see which feels best in your hand. Then go to the gun range and rent the weapon(s) that felt the best in your hand and shoot. Did it meet your requirements, control, recoil and could you come close to the target. I prefer and carry the Springfield XD40 sub compact and also carry a S&W M&P 9MM compact on ocassion. I use a Mossberg 12 ga 20" barrel cruiser shotgun for HD. What ever you choose, practice and practice until it becomes part of body.
JImbothefiveth
Member
I wasn't saying it lacked power, indeed, it might even be too powerful.
It's not exactly "compact", and it fires a very loud cartridge. Massad Ayoob said the noise level from deer rifles fired indoors can stun you. If he lives in a house with thin walls, the Garand will endanger his neighbors more than a shotgun will.
Also, a Garand will probably be more expensive to shoot than any of the other guns, unless he uses surplus ammunition. Even then, it will be at about .38 prices (I'm not sure about it's recoil)
Now that said, I'd like to own a Garand someday.
sturmgewehr667
member
brick + no neighbors + garand = good for HD
you could always shorten it if it isn't compact enough and you could put a suppressor on it if it's too loud, not that i'd ever do that to a garand.
but we have come to the conclusion that the op does not like garands, and doesn't want one for HD, even though my feelings are hurt and self esteem damaged, i will quit talking about garands (for a few minutes)
you could always shorten it if it isn't compact enough and you could put a suppressor on it if it's too loud, not that i'd ever do that to a garand.
but we have come to the conclusion that the op does not like garands, and doesn't want one for HD, even though my feelings are hurt and self esteem damaged, i will quit talking about garands (for a few minutes)
Last edited:
Greybeard7
Member
sturmgewehr667- For a few minutes? 
I understand your passion for your chosen platform, but there are many tools available and different situations require different tools.
Again, I understand that you are passionate about YOUR choice, but I still disagree about that choice for the original posited situations.
JMHO
GB7
I understand your passion for your chosen platform, but there are many tools available and different situations require different tools.Again, I understand that you are passionate about YOUR choice, but I still disagree about that choice for the original posited situations.
JMHO
GB7
epaget
Member
Back from the range
Hey guys,
I went to the range and tried the SP101. It was okay, but not my favorite weapon. I loaded it with .38 specials instead of .357 rounds just to see how it felt. I put a few dozen rounds through it. I am sure I could use it if the situation ever called for it, but it wasn't as comfortable as the XD9 is for me. Not only that, but my wife reeeeeeally did not like the revolver. We tried out all the different .357 revolvers they had in the case including the GP101, a Smith and Wesson, a Taurus, and some really cool single action cowboy style revolver that was really difficult to load (I can't remember which model it was but it basically had a little flap that opened so you could load and unload the rounds one at a time). So now I am stuck with the dilemma of not knowing what to do about the pistol.
I am waffling between the XD9 and a revolver. I used my friend's XD40 at the range and it was just as comfortable as the XD9 that I used before. For some reason, they just fit my hand well and feel good when shooting. I am worried that the XD9 might not be the best choice to take with me in the wet Northwest backcountry where the weather is unpredictable at best. I am concerned with its stopping power against some of the larger creatures that I might encounter. I always carry bear spray with me, but in the back of my mind worry that it would not be enough. I take the necessary precautions like tying my food up in a bear bag and whatnot, but there are also cougars and the crazy northwest hippy hikers who grow their drugs in the woods. I think I worry about them the most. Anyway, I just want to be able to protect myself and my family when I am out in the middle of nowhere.
I think I realize that I am going to give up comfort for weight if I am looking for something like a lightweight .357 revolver. A friend of mine showed me his titanium alloy S&W .357 that weighs next to nothing. He said he takes it backpacking with him when he goes. I haven't found a range yet that has one that I could rent and try. I imagine it is not the type of gun that would feel very good when shooting since it lacks mass, but it would get the job done if needs be.
Does anyone have an opinion about the functionality of an XD9 as a defensive weapon when backpacking? I am not wanting to go hunting with it. Just piece of mind against creatures that go bump in the night.
Oh, I have decided to go with the Ruger 10/22 as my rifle choice. Thanks to everyone for the advice about the various rifles. I shot another 10/22 at the range and I have to say, I have fallen in love with them. They are very easy to use. My wife came with me and really enjoyed it too. Since my wife is okay with it, I think it will be a good rifle for teaching and learning basics with.
Thanks,
Ean
Hey guys,
I went to the range and tried the SP101. It was okay, but not my favorite weapon. I loaded it with .38 specials instead of .357 rounds just to see how it felt. I put a few dozen rounds through it. I am sure I could use it if the situation ever called for it, but it wasn't as comfortable as the XD9 is for me. Not only that, but my wife reeeeeeally did not like the revolver. We tried out all the different .357 revolvers they had in the case including the GP101, a Smith and Wesson, a Taurus, and some really cool single action cowboy style revolver that was really difficult to load (I can't remember which model it was but it basically had a little flap that opened so you could load and unload the rounds one at a time). So now I am stuck with the dilemma of not knowing what to do about the pistol.
I am waffling between the XD9 and a revolver. I used my friend's XD40 at the range and it was just as comfortable as the XD9 that I used before. For some reason, they just fit my hand well and feel good when shooting. I am worried that the XD9 might not be the best choice to take with me in the wet Northwest backcountry where the weather is unpredictable at best. I am concerned with its stopping power against some of the larger creatures that I might encounter. I always carry bear spray with me, but in the back of my mind worry that it would not be enough. I take the necessary precautions like tying my food up in a bear bag and whatnot, but there are also cougars and the crazy northwest hippy hikers who grow their drugs in the woods. I think I worry about them the most. Anyway, I just want to be able to protect myself and my family when I am out in the middle of nowhere.
I think I realize that I am going to give up comfort for weight if I am looking for something like a lightweight .357 revolver. A friend of mine showed me his titanium alloy S&W .357 that weighs next to nothing. He said he takes it backpacking with him when he goes. I haven't found a range yet that has one that I could rent and try. I imagine it is not the type of gun that would feel very good when shooting since it lacks mass, but it would get the job done if needs be.
Does anyone have an opinion about the functionality of an XD9 as a defensive weapon when backpacking? I am not wanting to go hunting with it. Just piece of mind against creatures that go bump in the night.
Oh, I have decided to go with the Ruger 10/22 as my rifle choice. Thanks to everyone for the advice about the various rifles. I shot another 10/22 at the range and I have to say, I have fallen in love with them. They are very easy to use. My wife came with me and really enjoyed it too. Since my wife is okay with it, I think it will be a good rifle for teaching and learning basics with.
Thanks,
Ean
chuckusaret
member
I can't say enough about my XD40 sub compact that I use as my CCW, it is the most relieable handgun I have ever owned. I use the cheapest ammo I can find for target practice and it has never failed to fire. I have other handguns and can't say that about them, they have all failed at one time or another. Some will not fire the cheap stuff at all.
Bookworm
Member
One more thing to consider, if you're not going to carry everyday is storage on that handgun.
A revolver will sit, ready to fire, in your dresser drawer, gun safe, whatever you use, forever. It has no clip, no springs to wear out.
Most jams I've seen from more than 20yrs of shooting are caused by worn mags.
The .357 magnum, according to history channel or somewhere I saw a show on, was made for hunting. It'll handle the bear easily. I've only owned 1 ruger 357 (and practiced with reloaded 38s at the range) and loved it to death.
Alas, I went and traded it in towards a "cooler" 9mm when the berettas came out and were becoming popular. :banghead:
When I get MY income tax check back, I'm torn between that SP101, or the S+W 642. Both maybe?
But I'm not in YOUR situation with requiring defense against animals - then it's the 357 for sure. Ruger - it will be so rugged you can pass it to your grandkids and fire as well as the day you bought it. Use 38 +p (less noise, less flash, less recoil) in the home and 357 in the wood, as was stated.
A revolver will sit, ready to fire, in your dresser drawer, gun safe, whatever you use, forever. It has no clip, no springs to wear out.
Most jams I've seen from more than 20yrs of shooting are caused by worn mags.
The .357 magnum, according to history channel or somewhere I saw a show on, was made for hunting. It'll handle the bear easily. I've only owned 1 ruger 357 (and practiced with reloaded 38s at the range) and loved it to death.
Alas, I went and traded it in towards a "cooler" 9mm when the berettas came out and were becoming popular. :banghead:
When I get MY income tax check back, I'm torn between that SP101, or the S+W 642. Both maybe?
But I'm not in YOUR situation with requiring defense against animals - then it's the 357 for sure. Ruger - it will be so rugged you can pass it to your grandkids and fire as well as the day you bought it. Use 38 +p (less noise, less flash, less recoil) in the home and 357 in the wood, as was stated.
Rezin
Member
I LOVE the SP101 (.357)
Okay, first and formost, get the Ruger 10/22. View it as an educational and recreational gun rather than a home defense gun. Lightly used figure to spend $200. New figure $250.
For a self defense gun, especially on a budget, go to your local gun store and walk over to the USED SHOTGUN section and pick yourself out a lightly used pump action 12 gauge. Again, budget about $200. If you can get one with an 18 to 22 inch barrel that is best. DO NOT GET ONE WITH A PISTOL GRIP ONLY!
Third, remember, the lighter the gun the more it will recoil. The Ruger SP101 is a small gun, but built solid. It is going to be the softest kicking of the small revolvers, but still, I suggest if you go the way of the revolver to look at a medium framed gun, like the Ruger GP100 or the Smith and Wesson 686.
Note #1, if you are planning on carrying the gun out and about, you will most likely need a concealed carry permit.
Note #2, if it is a 'house gun' then the small size is much less relevant, so that makes me think a medium framed 4 inch revolver or your suggested Springfield XD would be a good choice. If, however, you do get a concealed carry license, it has been my experience that people generally don't like to carry heavy guns, and though the SP101 is lighter than a medium frame it is the heaviest light frame. For 'shoot rarely, carry a lot' I suggest a hammer shrouded pistol with a lightweight frame like the Smith and Wesson Titanium Bodyguard.
Now, with Obama in office we are likely to see another AWB or similar silly laws. If you are thinking about getting a Springfield XD, I suggest getting one NOW and getting a couple spare mags in addition to what is included with the gun. Combine this with the above statement of 'size of a housegun doesn't matter' and the 'you need a CCL to carry' I strongly suggest purchase #3 be the Springfield XD, and only when you actually have your concealed carry license should you make purchase #4 of a snubby revolver.
As far as keeping the wife's fear of handguns, two things to do. Educate her and buy a Gunvault and bolt it to your nightstand.
http://www.sportco.com/productcart/pc/viewContent.asp?idpage=28&gclid=CK_Q27aV0ZgCFQ6jagodEgQa1A
Then stick a light on the Springfield's rails and stick it the box.
final note. You may want to consider buying a handgun that your wife would be comfortable shooting. Many women end up being able to handle the biggest heaviest recoiling guns around, however, be aware of hand size. Most higher capacity handguns are built around a hand that would fit in a Mens size large gloves. I've known some women with hands that big (typically farm wives who could outwork a half dozen white collar cubicle drones) but that is not the norm. Small hands of any gender tend to work well with 'single stack' semiautos. This means 8 or so shot capacity rather than 15. I think this is why a lot of women end up liking to shoot 1911A1 'colt 45s' even though some guys balk at the recoil of a 45acp. Anways, I am rambling, I suggest considering a 'his and hers' rather than the springfield, and the Walther PPS is a wonderful gun because of how slim it is. Note. PPS, and NOT PPK. This is NOT James Bond's gun. I think this handgun would be an excellent fit for teaching young sons and daughters as well, who also often have small hands. Heck many guys who spend time typing on keyboards rather than using a lugwrench would probably find the Walther PPS a superior fit to the wide Springfield XD too.
Of course, don't just assume your wife will like ANY gun you buy, make sure she has her input too on a 'his and hers' and for a 'her only' leave the final decision up to her 100%
For a self defense gun, especially on a budget, go to your local gun store and walk over to the USED SHOTGUN section and pick yourself out a lightly used pump action 12 gauge. Again, budget about $200. If you can get one with an 18 to 22 inch barrel that is best. DO NOT GET ONE WITH A PISTOL GRIP ONLY!
Third, remember, the lighter the gun the more it will recoil. The Ruger SP101 is a small gun, but built solid. It is going to be the softest kicking of the small revolvers, but still, I suggest if you go the way of the revolver to look at a medium framed gun, like the Ruger GP100 or the Smith and Wesson 686.
Note #1, if you are planning on carrying the gun out and about, you will most likely need a concealed carry permit.
Note #2, if it is a 'house gun' then the small size is much less relevant, so that makes me think a medium framed 4 inch revolver or your suggested Springfield XD would be a good choice. If, however, you do get a concealed carry license, it has been my experience that people generally don't like to carry heavy guns, and though the SP101 is lighter than a medium frame it is the heaviest light frame. For 'shoot rarely, carry a lot' I suggest a hammer shrouded pistol with a lightweight frame like the Smith and Wesson Titanium Bodyguard.
Now, with Obama in office we are likely to see another AWB or similar silly laws. If you are thinking about getting a Springfield XD, I suggest getting one NOW and getting a couple spare mags in addition to what is included with the gun. Combine this with the above statement of 'size of a housegun doesn't matter' and the 'you need a CCL to carry' I strongly suggest purchase #3 be the Springfield XD, and only when you actually have your concealed carry license should you make purchase #4 of a snubby revolver.
As far as keeping the wife's fear of handguns, two things to do. Educate her and buy a Gunvault and bolt it to your nightstand.
http://www.sportco.com/productcart/pc/viewContent.asp?idpage=28&gclid=CK_Q27aV0ZgCFQ6jagodEgQa1A
Then stick a light on the Springfield's rails and stick it the box.
final note. You may want to consider buying a handgun that your wife would be comfortable shooting. Many women end up being able to handle the biggest heaviest recoiling guns around, however, be aware of hand size. Most higher capacity handguns are built around a hand that would fit in a Mens size large gloves. I've known some women with hands that big (typically farm wives who could outwork a half dozen white collar cubicle drones) but that is not the norm. Small hands of any gender tend to work well with 'single stack' semiautos. This means 8 or so shot capacity rather than 15. I think this is why a lot of women end up liking to shoot 1911A1 'colt 45s' even though some guys balk at the recoil of a 45acp. Anways, I am rambling, I suggest considering a 'his and hers' rather than the springfield, and the Walther PPS is a wonderful gun because of how slim it is. Note. PPS, and NOT PPK. This is NOT James Bond's gun. I think this handgun would be an excellent fit for teaching young sons and daughters as well, who also often have small hands. Heck many guys who spend time typing on keyboards rather than using a lugwrench would probably find the Walther PPS a superior fit to the wide Springfield XD too.
Of course, don't just assume your wife will like ANY gun you buy, make sure she has her input too on a 'his and hers' and for a 'her only' leave the final decision up to her 100%
#1, in wet and rain, the polymer frame and stainless steel or treated slide of the XD, Glock, and/or Smith and Wesson MP will be very equal to the stainless steel SP101. Ammo getting damp is going to be the weak link.
#2. For human predators, coyotes, wild dogs, and cougars/mountain lions, and even black bears, your standard calibers for self defense of 9mm, 40SW, and 45acp will be plenty.
IF you are talking grizzly bear rather than black bear, you need to start talking 44 magnum. The long and the short of it is if you want a handgun for grizz protection, you will NOT be able to get away with something small and light and effective.
However, I don't know how likely you are to encounter a grizz in Seattle's hiking trails.
So, don't worry about the XD not being able to cut it, unless your alternate would be a full size 44 magnum.
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