When someone first gets their permit, they are normally unsure how to go about purchasing their first handgun. I have had this conversation both online and in person with a few people and tell them all the same basic thing. So I thought I would type this up and post it here. If it is not appropriate here, then please remove it or let me know. I am not any type of expert in anything except being me. So with that said, here goes!
So you have decided to purchase a handgun. Congrats! Not sure what steps to take next? Here is a suggestion on how you could proceed. This is the process that myself and the wife used to decide. Basically, you are going to do a personal review of possible handguns. Of course, you will have to find a range that rents firearms or even some friends who would let you try theirs out. I will not discuss the different calibers or holsters.
Types of information to write down.
Make:
Model:
Caliber:
Price:
How does it fit in your hand? Is the comfortable to hold?
Are the controls (saftey/decoker, hammer, slide lock, magazine release) easy to reach?
Are there any protrusions that could possibly get caught on anything when drawing from a holster? Any sharp edges?
Are the sights easy to see? Try blinking your eyes while looking at the sights.
When shooting it, is it snappy? Easy to shoot? Easy to control?
Does it have any accessory rail? Do you really need one?
General notes about the handgun.
Yes / No / Maybe
This may not be a perfect process but it is a place to start. You may start this off with a specific handgun on mind only to realize that there is something else that fits you better.
Just my humble thoughts.
So you have decided to purchase a handgun. Congrats! Not sure what steps to take next? Here is a suggestion on how you could proceed. This is the process that myself and the wife used to decide. Basically, you are going to do a personal review of possible handguns. Of course, you will have to find a range that rents firearms or even some friends who would let you try theirs out. I will not discuss the different calibers or holsters.
- First thing is to get yourself a new pocket sized notebook and a pen or pencil.
- Write down (at the top of the page) what type of a handgun(s) you think you would like. Put one per page. Be sure to leave room on the back of each page in case you need more writing space. More on this below.
- Any from the list that you have decided are just not right for you, cross off your list.
- Look online at some reviews (both written and video).
- Look for what types of accessories are available. Holsters, night sights, replacement grips, lights, etc. Is it easy to "field strip" for cleaning?
- Look for average prices online and local shops.
- Now go through your list again and see if anymore drop off the list.
- Now go back and shoot them again, take more notes.
- Go back home and decide which one would be the best choice for you. If you still can't decide, that is fine. Just do your research and narrow down your list again.
- Once you have the decision made, don't run right out and make a purchase. Look at different shops to see who can give you the best deal (notice I did not say lowest price).
Types of information to write down.
Make:
Model:
Caliber:
Price:
How does it fit in your hand? Is the comfortable to hold?
Are the controls (saftey/decoker, hammer, slide lock, magazine release) easy to reach?
Are there any protrusions that could possibly get caught on anything when drawing from a holster? Any sharp edges?
Are the sights easy to see? Try blinking your eyes while looking at the sights.
When shooting it, is it snappy? Easy to shoot? Easy to control?
Does it have any accessory rail? Do you really need one?
General notes about the handgun.
Yes / No / Maybe
This may not be a perfect process but it is a place to start. You may start this off with a specific handgun on mind only to realize that there is something else that fits you better.
Just my humble thoughts.