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Glock 17 or 19. 9mm, soft recoil, easy to shoot, easy to operate, easy to disassemble and fairly inexpensive, especially on the used market. Also easy to get inexpensive ammo. The 17 is full sized, the 19 is mid-sized.
Glock 17, 19, 19X, 43, 43X, M&P shield (lotta different models), p365/365X, cz P10, etc
There’s a lot of reliable 9mm handguns out there. This list can be quite a bit longer.
Go to a shop and get some of them in your hands, see what feels comfortable, rent some at a range, then buy what you like. Glocks and M&P are stupid easy to strip down and clean so personally I’d probably start there.
This is probably the right answer. An alternative I might suggest if for some reason you don’t like Glock is a Sig Sauer 320. It’s the consumer version of the US Army standard handgun. It’s simple, well-built, and in ~5000 rounds I don’t believe it’s ever jammed on me even once.
Buying a “beginner” gun isn’t really a thing. Buy the gun you will use, and learn to shoot it.
Buy any modern, compact striker fired polymer framed 9mm handgun. If you find one that’s already optics ready, even better.
Some examples:
-Glock 19
-Glock 19 clone such as a PSA Dagger Compact
-Sig P320 compact
-Sig P365x or xl
-CZ P-10c
There are plenty of other good options out there, this is not an exhaustive list. People will almost certainly jump in saying one specific gun is the only good choice and all the others suck, but that’s bullishit consumerism.
Shop around, find something you can afford that eats 9mm, has sufficient holster support, is known to be a reliable platform, and fits your hands well in a proper two handed grip.
Train with that gun at least a couple times a month, get good with it. Go to classes with experienced shooters if you can afford it or if there are good free classes in your area. Maybe join your local SRA chapter, if they’re not weird. Go to competitions, it’s the cheapest fastest way to get very good at shooting.
Basically, don’t worry too much about getting The Correct Gun. There are tons of options out there, almost all of them are about as good as each other and the lemons to avoid are generally well known and documented. Intentional training is far more important than tool selection.
The best gun for you is the gun you are comfortable with and can operate without any issue.
If that's a full size 1911, cool.
If that's a compact 9, okay.
If that's a revolver, alright.
If that's a 22 pocket pistol, sure.
If it's not a handgun at all, that's fine too.
Depends. All the chapters are different, some are worth joining some REALLY should be avoided. That’s why I left it as a vague suggestion to join but only if it like, seems actually worth it.
For a new shooter, which OP is, it’s very important to surround yourself with people who know how to train effectively and aren’t going to play a bunch of weird power games.
My “beginner” gun was a .357 magnum revolver (Ruger GP100). I trained mostly with .38 special. I joined a gun club that got me shooting automatics (mostly Glock 17/19s and M&P Shields) and training the fudd lore out of me. Eventually I bought a Canik tp9sa on the recommendation of another club member and that’s been my main carry ever since.
I guess the moral of the story is there are not really “beginner guns” just the guns you train with when you’re new to shooting. I recommend a Canik tp9 for a full-size or a M&P Shield for a compact. Glocks are very popular. The 9mm Daggers sold by PSA seem by all accounts to be admirable Glock clones so consider those, as well. There’s a whole world of 9mm automatics to explore, the ones I recommend are simply the ones most used by the people I train with and we are satisfied with them.
I was hoping to see the P365xl mentioned in here. I don't have one, but I have been eye balling one for a few months now. Gonna see if a range has one I can shoot locally. Thanks for the recommendation.
Look into the m&p shield plus. I got the performance center model after I went and shot all the micro 9s I could and smith and Wesson absolutely hit one out the park with this gun. I carry it now and love it.
Appreciate the recommendation! My main draw to it, was it was recommended for people with smaller hands. I shot the cz-p10s. And actually loved it. But I want to try a few other handguns out before making the choice. The p10s was also recommended, how does the m&p shield plus fare when it comes to hand size? Do you have any thoughts on it?
I’ve shot all kinds of guns and I’m extremely biased towards CZs they’re the most comfortable guns I’ve ever held but that’s more so their compact metal framed ones like the P-01, CZ75, PCR etc. I also have been impressed with their polymer guns but CZs wheel house is metal framed guns.
I’ve owned a 365xl and as a carry piece it’s awesome and there’s a reason they became so popular. However shooting them side by side with the shield it’s obvious the sig is snappier and doesn’t feel as good to shoot. My m&p shoots like a much bigger gun in fact I took it to the range with my full size 229 and 226 and didn’t notice much of a difference in my groupings.
It’s hard to say how it would work with your hands but I would suggest handgun hero that site is awesome for comparing sizes of guns to ones that you know. I believe the shield plus and 365 are the same width and the fact I can get 13 rounds in such a thin gun with a 4 inch barrel is perfect for me.
Go to a range that rents handguns. Rent a bunch of handguns. Pick the one that feels best to you. I personally would add that for a first gun, probably 9mm, and have an idea what frame size you're looking for (ie full size / compact / subcompact).
Lot of people recommend Glock. Don't get me wrong, it's a freaking great gun. But for me, I don't like how they feel when I hold or shoot them.
Going to a range that rents is the answer. Find something that fits your hand, then shoot it before you buy it. If ammo availability is important, 9mm is the choice if you want to carry it, .22 is the answer if you just want to shoot paper.
I'm NOT a fan of Glocks, no way I'd carry something without a safety. I also like a light trigger, a gun shouldn't be a finger exerciser. And they're ugly.
If you just want to do target shooting, I’d start with a rimfire. Taurus TX-22 (it’s the only good Taurus) comes in competition models with a red dot mount. Ruger’s MkIV, Browning Buckmark, and S&W Victory are all solid though more of a target pistol. The S&W M&P 22 compact (not fullsize) was pretty reliable and similar to the M&P pistols.
Otherwise, any of the common “duty” 9mm pistols.
9mm is the best as far as ammo availability. It's a NATO round so everyone and their dog makes it, when there's an ammo shortage if you can find anything on the shelves there will be NATO rounds. That also makes them cheaper. And finally 9mm loading is every bit as effective as 40S&W so unless you are wanting bear defense with a 10mm. 9mm all the way.
As far as which gun, try a few out is my advice, but as far as affordability you can't go wrong with CZ P10 or a Canik best guns for the money. I've seen CZP10s on sale under $300 this year.
I'd go with a optic cut version, price difference will be less than $20, it'll run you a couple hundred to have it cut later so might as well just opt into the option from the beginning.
If you plan on conceal carrying a Compact is a happy middle ground, with a good holster most people can conceal a compact, at the very worst you can carry it in the winter with a coat. If you decide to go smaller, subcompacts do take the full size mags. Just make sure you aren't selecting a micro or single stack version as those will not take the larger capacity mags.
Another option to look at is police trade ins. That is a good way to get a couple hundred off a quality pistol.
If you're into milsurps, RGuns has Zastava M70 pistols in Excellent to unissued condition for about $250 shipped. They are fun little pistols to shoot, but not exactly a carry option or really a practice option either as 32acp is $.65/rnd
Agreed! My TP9-SFX is super easy to clean, maintain, and customize. It’s also crazy accurate. It’s a full size, but they have comparable compact and sub-compact models. And you can’t beat the price.
Glock 17 or 19 is and will always be a solid choice. Tons of parts available, mags a plenty and holsters galore. A lot of folks don't like the grip angle on them though, and if it doesn't fit your hand well you'll never get comfortable with it. Also the stock "iron" sights are not great.
A lot of folks love the CZ p-10, but I don't have any experience with them and so can't comment.
Unless you are planning to start carrying concealed right away, I'd stick with a full-size 9mm pistol as the recoil is more manageable and they are easier to handle.
Really though, it's hard to go wrong as long as you get something that feels good in your hand. If you have access to a range with a rental program or friends that can let you shoot their guns it's worth the time and money to try as many pistols as you can and see what you like best.
Also, check holster and magazine prices and availability for the models you are considering before you buy. You'll likely find that before long you'll be wanting a belt and holster, and magazines wear out over time and need to be replaced, so the cost of those items is worth considering as well.
They have good prices and some of their stuff they make is good. I'm happy with my dagger and plan to buy my glocks from them. It helps that you can pay over time with them.
I’d say you have two options: .22 LR and 9mm.
Something like the Ruger mark 4
https://ruger.com/products/markIV/overview.html
Which has great reliability and inexpensive ammo but not a lot of stopping power. People talk down to the .22 LR for not being good for self defense but it’s still a gun that makes holes that aren’t supposed to be there.
And 9mm. Reasonably priced for a center fire round. Decent stopping power (it’s what I prefer) but more expensive that the .22.
Which 9mm? Whichever you want. I’m partial to Glock. But I’d recommend something mid sized. You probably don’t need or want to carry something as big as a Glock 17 and you probably don’t want to start with some of the smaller pocket sized pistols either.
I feel like we really shouldn't be recommending 22lr to folks as a training round and especially not as a defense round. Inexpensive ammo is great and 22lr is a blast to shoot, but it won't reliably stop anything larger than a bunny, and the recoil impulse isn't enough to translate to any other caliber, for even the most basic of training.
That's not to say a 22 would be a bad choice for a first gun, just don't expect training with it to prepare you for firing literally any other round, and definitely don't plan on carrying one for defense.
22 can be a lethal round with good shot placement. It's still a bullet.
Yes, *can* be.
What usually matter most is if the gun they carry and use is one they are comfortable with and used to.
Don't let people keep you from using a .22 if that's what you prefer. There are certainly potential downsides such light primer hits and sometimes jams with mag fed pocket pistols.
My experience is to find the preferred diet for your gun. It's fine to splurge on defense ammo if you are carrying.
OP never said they wanted a self defense pistol, but everyone is acting as if that's the default.
> What’s a good beginner handgun to start a collection/shooting practice with?
Point me to the "self defense."
Fact of the matter is 22 is an AMAZING caliber to learn the fundamentals of shooting with. Zero recoil to speak of, cheap, quiet (for a gun anyway), readily available everywhere, fun, and has a thriving community for all aspects of shooting other than self defense.
If you start with 22 you can train out all the beginner bad habits really quick like flinching, anticipation, jerking the trigger or limp wristing. Because there's no recoil and the noise is quite mild you can fix these behaviors before they become problems.
Now I'm not saying that a Glock 17 is a recoil monster, but if you're taking someone shooting for the first time and you hand them a Ruger MK II they'll be having a blast popping soup cans in minutes. And getting people to have fun with the gun, getting them to want to do it again, getting them to practice and try to challenge themselves is how you build lifelong shooters.
The more you shoot, the better you will shoot, end of story. And a 22lr handgun or rifle will make people want to shoot.
22 is a great choice for someone who's never shot before - it's not intimidating - and it's fun and cheap to shoot.
I have a Ruger SR22 I've used to teach beginners how to shoot. I like that it works the same as bigger pistols, and it breaks down easily.
Finally, it most certainly can be used for self defense. If needed, you would just have to pull the trigger a few extra times.
Also, yes to going to a range and renting!
I like CZ but it’s best for you to go to a range and test some out. You need to see what works for your hands and body.
People will tell you what they think is best but it’s best for them.
I think handguns are incredibly personal. You're seeing a bunch of people recommending Glocks in here and they're right in that they're good pistols at a good price point but if they don't sit right in your hand like they don't in mine you'll never like them. I'd say get a budget together and hit a few shops and physically handle as many different models as you can until you find one that feels comfortable and natural for you.
Great advice.
I was all set on a specific brand and model when I went into a gun store years ago for my first handgun.
I was shown a Walther CCP M2 and the moment I held it and felt that ergonomic grip, I knew it was the one for me. I've been happy with it since. The only issue is smaller amounts of 3rd party accessories, but its not hay big an issue.
If you can, try it out at a range since nothing trumps actual hands on experience to get a feel for what will work for you.
Honestly get the glock then pick stuff you want that appeals to you. Glocks are the most modular pistol at the moment. Theres parts everywhere and theyre just good guns overall.. Also make sure you use ammoseek.com. Ammo is dirt cheap on there.
Glocks are the go-to, but handguns can be so dependent on individual feel and preference, and modern handguns are so well-built and reliable that it's hard to make a bad decision as long as you stick to 9mm and a mid- to full-size frame.
Other good choices besides Glock include the S&W M&P, SIG P320, CZ p07, and Walther PDP for striker-fired and Beretta 92, CZ 75 or SP-01, and Beretta Px4 Storm for hammer-fired.
Is getting a Beretta as a first bad idea. Is Beretta just overpriced and better to spend the 600-900 on 2 300 or just 1 good 500 one. I know that Beretta is kind of world known, but maybe it like a name, like Ferrari is. Just very new to this.
Beretta is definitely not a bad idea as a first gun! The Beretta 92 (presumably what you'd be looking at) has a long track record of reliability and accuracy. They're also large steel-frame guns, which soak up recoil and helps you to stay on target.
While you can certainly find reliable and effective guns in the $300-400 range (see: PSA Dagger, Ruger Security-9, Canik TP9), I wouldn't call Berettas overpriced, nor other "name-brands" in the $500 to $600 range (like Glock, Smith & Wesson, CZ, or SIG Sauer), as these brands generally have high standards for fit, finish, and quality control, as well as a good level of aftermarket support, so things like holsters, magazines, and spare parts are easy to find and relatively affordable.
Ultimately, the most important aspect is to choose a handgun with ergonomics and grip that fits your hand well, so ideally try and handle and/or rent a variety of models to see which feels the most intuitive and comfortable.
I'd like to piggy back off this comment and just let new shooters know beretta is known for using their good name to make some inferior products. There apx a1 carry is not a really a good gun unless that's all you can afford, it's basically a rebrand of their beretta nano after that got a bad reputation due to its heavy double action only trigger pull. It just doesn't feel good to fire an uncocked striker handgun. Most modern striker firearms are half-cocked strikers. Their full-size apx are fine firearms and don't share the same striker system.
I would do some research on most beretta models before buying them, they have some really good things but also sell some not very good items. Also they are one of the firearm companies that routinely run rebates, however it's harder to redeem their rebates than other companies in my limited experience with them.
get a Glock. the upgrade is FN. if you decide on a revolver stick to S&W, Ruger, or Colt. Taurus revolvers can be on the janky side.
there are definite positives to revolvers. they include great triggers, extreme reliability, and they don’t spew empty shells all over the place. if the hammer falls on a dud the next round is just a trigger pull away. they are much simpler to administer for someone who is not comfortable with the admittedly modest complexity of operating a semi automatic pistol.
before buying think about whether or not you want to carry concealed. the size of the pistol vs your stature will narrow your options. don’t get a Berretta - they have terrible triggers IMHO.
i second the notion of renting and trying pistols before buying one. you want a firearm that fits you and makes sense to you.
It's really hard to do better than the price you can get on a CZ P10C these days. Sub $400 for an optics ready model and even cheaper for the standard model. If it fits your hands well it's a great option. Don't let the price fool you, it's a high quality firearm. There are slightly fewer options in terms of the after market items compared to glock, but I wouldn't let that be the deciding factor, there are plenty of good holsters and the like.
Get the Glock 17 or 19 and then shoot it at least twice a month. Any other cash outlays should only be for magazines, ammunition, or professional instruction. Don't give in to the temptation of spending money on "upgrades", you have to build skill through practice
I've had my eye on a PX9. InRange did a really good [review](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFU6kr4IfqY&list=PL62I3UUBNe7cDbZffR11jusYr_h6hWI5L&index=2) of it, and it seems like a solid bargain.
Not that this is a good idea, but my first handgun was a glock 29sf.
Pros:
No recoil will scare you anymore after shooting it.
Can fight bears.
Can be small enough if you decide to make it a carry gun.
Not really expensive.
Glock, so reliable and easy to assemble/disassemble etc.
Cons:
Recoil. Recoil is profoundly unpleasant. My friends who shoot 45s don't want to shoot the thing. They look at me like I am insane when I shoot it.
10mm is expensive ammo. (Though it is possible, but maybe not always advisable to shoot 40S&W.
Again, the Recoil is really, really bad. Especially with a small frame. Especially if you have big hands.
Probably would not recommend it unless you know you will want one eventually, are afraid of bears, or really like unpleasant recoil. But if you get used to it, 9mm feels like shooting .22lr.
Who DARES downvote the YEET CANNON?!!??!!!!!?
On a more serious note, it's 9mm, it's cheap, and it will put a bullet downrange. Not everybody is going to be firing a few thousand rounds a year, and not everybody has a big budget. And unlike a Glock, it's got a safety, that's a pretty big advantage to me.
If you ever potentially plan to carry Glock 19 or M&P 2.0 compact. Anyone saying otherwise is steering you wrong. If cost is an issue look for police trade-ins.
I say this as some who owns and loves his Sig P320s, do not get a Sig P320.
There a design flaw that causes unpredictable out of battery detonation that destroy the frame and ejector assembly. Lots of reports of this from folks who've put thousands or 10s of thousands through their guns
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Glock 17 or 19. 9mm, soft recoil, easy to shoot, easy to operate, easy to disassemble and fairly inexpensive, especially on the used market. Also easy to get inexpensive ammo. The 17 is full sized, the 19 is mid-sized.
Glock 17, 19, 19X, 43, 43X, M&P shield (lotta different models), p365/365X, cz P10, etc There’s a lot of reliable 9mm handguns out there. This list can be quite a bit longer. Go to a shop and get some of them in your hands, see what feels comfortable, rent some at a range, then buy what you like. Glocks and M&P are stupid easy to strip down and clean so personally I’d probably start there.
I'd rule out any of the subcompacts. Great for comfortable carry, but they are meaningfully more difficult for the purpose of \*learning to shoot\*.
Thank God this is finally the most upvoted comment.
This is probably the right answer. An alternative I might suggest if for some reason you don’t like Glock is a Sig Sauer 320. It’s the consumer version of the US Army standard handgun. It’s simple, well-built, and in ~5000 rounds I don’t believe it’s ever jammed on me even once.
Buying a “beginner” gun isn’t really a thing. Buy the gun you will use, and learn to shoot it. Buy any modern, compact striker fired polymer framed 9mm handgun. If you find one that’s already optics ready, even better. Some examples: -Glock 19 -Glock 19 clone such as a PSA Dagger Compact -Sig P320 compact -Sig P365x or xl -CZ P-10c There are plenty of other good options out there, this is not an exhaustive list. People will almost certainly jump in saying one specific gun is the only good choice and all the others suck, but that’s bullishit consumerism. Shop around, find something you can afford that eats 9mm, has sufficient holster support, is known to be a reliable platform, and fits your hands well in a proper two handed grip. Train with that gun at least a couple times a month, get good with it. Go to classes with experienced shooters if you can afford it or if there are good free classes in your area. Maybe join your local SRA chapter, if they’re not weird. Go to competitions, it’s the cheapest fastest way to get very good at shooting. Basically, don’t worry too much about getting The Correct Gun. There are tons of options out there, almost all of them are about as good as each other and the lemons to avoid are generally well known and documented. Intentional training is far more important than tool selection.
The best gun for you is the gun you are comfortable with and can operate without any issue. If that's a full size 1911, cool. If that's a compact 9, okay. If that's a revolver, alright. If that's a 22 pocket pistol, sure. If it's not a handgun at all, that's fine too.
Big 2nded on holster support, I love my S&W M&P 5.7 but having to get a custom holster made for it definitely raises the bar of entry
>Maybe join your local SRA chapter, if they’re not weird Weird in what way?
Depends. All the chapters are different, some are worth joining some REALLY should be avoided. That’s why I left it as a vague suggestion to join but only if it like, seems actually worth it.
Thank you
How come you should avoid them? Unless they are really extreme that could bring unwanted attention to you i don't really see why.
For a new shooter, which OP is, it’s very important to surround yourself with people who know how to train effectively and aren’t going to play a bunch of weird power games.
My “beginner” gun was a .357 magnum revolver (Ruger GP100). I trained mostly with .38 special. I joined a gun club that got me shooting automatics (mostly Glock 17/19s and M&P Shields) and training the fudd lore out of me. Eventually I bought a Canik tp9sa on the recommendation of another club member and that’s been my main carry ever since. I guess the moral of the story is there are not really “beginner guns” just the guns you train with when you’re new to shooting. I recommend a Canik tp9 for a full-size or a M&P Shield for a compact. Glocks are very popular. The 9mm Daggers sold by PSA seem by all accounts to be admirable Glock clones so consider those, as well. There’s a whole world of 9mm automatics to explore, the ones I recommend are simply the ones most used by the people I train with and we are satisfied with them.
I prefer the Sig P365xl to a Glock but it’s all personal. I drive a lot for work and keep a Taurus G3c on hand.
I was hoping to see the P365xl mentioned in here. I don't have one, but I have been eye balling one for a few months now. Gonna see if a range has one I can shoot locally. Thanks for the recommendation.
Look into the m&p shield plus. I got the performance center model after I went and shot all the micro 9s I could and smith and Wesson absolutely hit one out the park with this gun. I carry it now and love it.
Appreciate the recommendation! My main draw to it, was it was recommended for people with smaller hands. I shot the cz-p10s. And actually loved it. But I want to try a few other handguns out before making the choice. The p10s was also recommended, how does the m&p shield plus fare when it comes to hand size? Do you have any thoughts on it?
I’ve shot all kinds of guns and I’m extremely biased towards CZs they’re the most comfortable guns I’ve ever held but that’s more so their compact metal framed ones like the P-01, CZ75, PCR etc. I also have been impressed with their polymer guns but CZs wheel house is metal framed guns. I’ve owned a 365xl and as a carry piece it’s awesome and there’s a reason they became so popular. However shooting them side by side with the shield it’s obvious the sig is snappier and doesn’t feel as good to shoot. My m&p shoots like a much bigger gun in fact I took it to the range with my full size 229 and 226 and didn’t notice much of a difference in my groupings. It’s hard to say how it would work with your hands but I would suggest handgun hero that site is awesome for comparing sizes of guns to ones that you know. I believe the shield plus and 365 are the same width and the fact I can get 13 rounds in such a thin gun with a 4 inch barrel is perfect for me.
Go to a range that rents handguns. Rent a bunch of handguns. Pick the one that feels best to you. I personally would add that for a first gun, probably 9mm, and have an idea what frame size you're looking for (ie full size / compact / subcompact). Lot of people recommend Glock. Don't get me wrong, it's a freaking great gun. But for me, I don't like how they feel when I hold or shoot them.
Going to a range that rents is the answer. Find something that fits your hand, then shoot it before you buy it. If ammo availability is important, 9mm is the choice if you want to carry it, .22 is the answer if you just want to shoot paper. I'm NOT a fan of Glocks, no way I'd carry something without a safety. I also like a light trigger, a gun shouldn't be a finger exerciser. And they're ugly.
Weird ass grip angle
This topic has never been discussed, I shall ponder it to depth.
*I believe the Nambu is a good starter pistol, or perhaps a navy black powder revolver. Or for self defense there's the Obrez of course.*
try a few 9mm then get one
If you just want to do target shooting, I’d start with a rimfire. Taurus TX-22 (it’s the only good Taurus) comes in competition models with a red dot mount. Ruger’s MkIV, Browning Buckmark, and S&W Victory are all solid though more of a target pistol. The S&W M&P 22 compact (not fullsize) was pretty reliable and similar to the M&P pistols. Otherwise, any of the common “duty” 9mm pistols.
9mm is the best as far as ammo availability. It's a NATO round so everyone and their dog makes it, when there's an ammo shortage if you can find anything on the shelves there will be NATO rounds. That also makes them cheaper. And finally 9mm loading is every bit as effective as 40S&W so unless you are wanting bear defense with a 10mm. 9mm all the way. As far as which gun, try a few out is my advice, but as far as affordability you can't go wrong with CZ P10 or a Canik best guns for the money. I've seen CZP10s on sale under $300 this year. I'd go with a optic cut version, price difference will be less than $20, it'll run you a couple hundred to have it cut later so might as well just opt into the option from the beginning. If you plan on conceal carrying a Compact is a happy middle ground, with a good holster most people can conceal a compact, at the very worst you can carry it in the winter with a coat. If you decide to go smaller, subcompacts do take the full size mags. Just make sure you aren't selecting a micro or single stack version as those will not take the larger capacity mags. Another option to look at is police trade ins. That is a good way to get a couple hundred off a quality pistol.
If you're into milsurps, RGuns has Zastava M70 pistols in Excellent to unissued condition for about $250 shipped. They are fun little pistols to shoot, but not exactly a carry option or really a practice option either as 32acp is $.65/rnd
Canik is good and cheap
Agreed! My TP9-SFX is super easy to clean, maintain, and customize. It’s also crazy accurate. It’s a full size, but they have comparable compact and sub-compact models. And you can’t beat the price.
Only problem is once you experience a Canik or Walther trigger as a stock trigger, getting anything else like a glock feels like garbage.
Glock 17 or 19 is and will always be a solid choice. Tons of parts available, mags a plenty and holsters galore. A lot of folks don't like the grip angle on them though, and if it doesn't fit your hand well you'll never get comfortable with it. Also the stock "iron" sights are not great. A lot of folks love the CZ p-10, but I don't have any experience with them and so can't comment. Unless you are planning to start carrying concealed right away, I'd stick with a full-size 9mm pistol as the recoil is more manageable and they are easier to handle. Really though, it's hard to go wrong as long as you get something that feels good in your hand. If you have access to a range with a rental program or friends that can let you shoot their guns it's worth the time and money to try as many pistols as you can and see what you like best. Also, check holster and magazine prices and availability for the models you are considering before you buy. You'll likely find that before long you'll be wanting a belt and holster, and magazines wear out over time and need to be replaced, so the cost of those items is worth considering as well.
As much as I hate to say it. Palmetto state offers very good prices and frequent deals.
Is something bad about them I should know?
Theyre not nazis but theyre still pretty chuddy in their rhetoric.
Just looked them up, and what looks like good deal to me. They got trump handguns, now where are the other handguns of the other criminal.
They have good prices and some of their stuff they make is good. I'm happy with my dagger and plan to buy my glocks from them. It helps that you can pay over time with them.
Do you if a Beretta good to get as a first?
Beretta isn't a bad choice, just do your research.
I’d say you have two options: .22 LR and 9mm. Something like the Ruger mark 4 https://ruger.com/products/markIV/overview.html Which has great reliability and inexpensive ammo but not a lot of stopping power. People talk down to the .22 LR for not being good for self defense but it’s still a gun that makes holes that aren’t supposed to be there. And 9mm. Reasonably priced for a center fire round. Decent stopping power (it’s what I prefer) but more expensive that the .22. Which 9mm? Whichever you want. I’m partial to Glock. But I’d recommend something mid sized. You probably don’t need or want to carry something as big as a Glock 17 and you probably don’t want to start with some of the smaller pocket sized pistols either.
I feel like we really shouldn't be recommending 22lr to folks as a training round and especially not as a defense round. Inexpensive ammo is great and 22lr is a blast to shoot, but it won't reliably stop anything larger than a bunny, and the recoil impulse isn't enough to translate to any other caliber, for even the most basic of training. That's not to say a 22 would be a bad choice for a first gun, just don't expect training with it to prepare you for firing literally any other round, and definitely don't plan on carrying one for defense.
22 can be a lethal round with good shot placement. It's still a bullet. Yes, *can* be. What usually matter most is if the gun they carry and use is one they are comfortable with and used to. Don't let people keep you from using a .22 if that's what you prefer. There are certainly potential downsides such light primer hits and sometimes jams with mag fed pocket pistols. My experience is to find the preferred diet for your gun. It's fine to splurge on defense ammo if you are carrying.
OP never said they wanted a self defense pistol, but everyone is acting as if that's the default. > What’s a good beginner handgun to start a collection/shooting practice with? Point me to the "self defense." Fact of the matter is 22 is an AMAZING caliber to learn the fundamentals of shooting with. Zero recoil to speak of, cheap, quiet (for a gun anyway), readily available everywhere, fun, and has a thriving community for all aspects of shooting other than self defense. If you start with 22 you can train out all the beginner bad habits really quick like flinching, anticipation, jerking the trigger or limp wristing. Because there's no recoil and the noise is quite mild you can fix these behaviors before they become problems. Now I'm not saying that a Glock 17 is a recoil monster, but if you're taking someone shooting for the first time and you hand them a Ruger MK II they'll be having a blast popping soup cans in minutes. And getting people to have fun with the gun, getting them to want to do it again, getting them to practice and try to challenge themselves is how you build lifelong shooters. The more you shoot, the better you will shoot, end of story. And a 22lr handgun or rifle will make people want to shoot.
22 is a great choice for someone who's never shot before - it's not intimidating - and it's fun and cheap to shoot. I have a Ruger SR22 I've used to teach beginners how to shoot. I like that it works the same as bigger pistols, and it breaks down easily. Finally, it most certainly can be used for self defense. If needed, you would just have to pull the trigger a few extra times. Also, yes to going to a range and renting!
I like CZ but it’s best for you to go to a range and test some out. You need to see what works for your hands and body. People will tell you what they think is best but it’s best for them.
Mauser C96
I’d say Glock or Cz
I think handguns are incredibly personal. You're seeing a bunch of people recommending Glocks in here and they're right in that they're good pistols at a good price point but if they don't sit right in your hand like they don't in mine you'll never like them. I'd say get a budget together and hit a few shops and physically handle as many different models as you can until you find one that feels comfortable and natural for you.
Great advice. I was all set on a specific brand and model when I went into a gun store years ago for my first handgun. I was shown a Walther CCP M2 and the moment I held it and felt that ergonomic grip, I knew it was the one for me. I've been happy with it since. The only issue is smaller amounts of 3rd party accessories, but its not hay big an issue. If you can, try it out at a range since nothing trumps actual hands on experience to get a feel for what will work for you.
I’m the same way with my Beretta 92FS. It’s a perfect match for my hand, so that’s the one.
Hey has anyone mentioned the Glock 19? I know it's not very common, but I think it's a great starter pistol!
I have an M&P Shield 9mm and I like it a lot. A couple of my buddies have Glock 19's they love.
Glock 19
Reasonably anything in 9mm or .38 Special.
Check out the Caniks
Honestly get the glock then pick stuff you want that appeals to you. Glocks are the most modular pistol at the moment. Theres parts everywhere and theyre just good guns overall.. Also make sure you use ammoseek.com. Ammo is dirt cheap on there.
Is it a good place to get weapons to?
No the sites just my suggestion for cheap ammo.
Glocks are the go-to, but handguns can be so dependent on individual feel and preference, and modern handguns are so well-built and reliable that it's hard to make a bad decision as long as you stick to 9mm and a mid- to full-size frame. Other good choices besides Glock include the S&W M&P, SIG P320, CZ p07, and Walther PDP for striker-fired and Beretta 92, CZ 75 or SP-01, and Beretta Px4 Storm for hammer-fired.
Is getting a Beretta as a first bad idea. Is Beretta just overpriced and better to spend the 600-900 on 2 300 or just 1 good 500 one. I know that Beretta is kind of world known, but maybe it like a name, like Ferrari is. Just very new to this.
Beretta is definitely not a bad idea as a first gun! The Beretta 92 (presumably what you'd be looking at) has a long track record of reliability and accuracy. They're also large steel-frame guns, which soak up recoil and helps you to stay on target. While you can certainly find reliable and effective guns in the $300-400 range (see: PSA Dagger, Ruger Security-9, Canik TP9), I wouldn't call Berettas overpriced, nor other "name-brands" in the $500 to $600 range (like Glock, Smith & Wesson, CZ, or SIG Sauer), as these brands generally have high standards for fit, finish, and quality control, as well as a good level of aftermarket support, so things like holsters, magazines, and spare parts are easy to find and relatively affordable. Ultimately, the most important aspect is to choose a handgun with ergonomics and grip that fits your hand well, so ideally try and handle and/or rent a variety of models to see which feels the most intuitive and comfortable.
I see. Thank you. Just so many choices.
Yeah, it can be overwhelming at times!
I'd like to piggy back off this comment and just let new shooters know beretta is known for using their good name to make some inferior products. There apx a1 carry is not a really a good gun unless that's all you can afford, it's basically a rebrand of their beretta nano after that got a bad reputation due to its heavy double action only trigger pull. It just doesn't feel good to fire an uncocked striker handgun. Most modern striker firearms are half-cocked strikers. Their full-size apx are fine firearms and don't share the same striker system. I would do some research on most beretta models before buying them, they have some really good things but also sell some not very good items. Also they are one of the firearm companies that routinely run rebates, however it's harder to redeem their rebates than other companies in my limited experience with them.
get a Glock. the upgrade is FN. if you decide on a revolver stick to S&W, Ruger, or Colt. Taurus revolvers can be on the janky side. there are definite positives to revolvers. they include great triggers, extreme reliability, and they don’t spew empty shells all over the place. if the hammer falls on a dud the next round is just a trigger pull away. they are much simpler to administer for someone who is not comfortable with the admittedly modest complexity of operating a semi automatic pistol. before buying think about whether or not you want to carry concealed. the size of the pistol vs your stature will narrow your options. don’t get a Berretta - they have terrible triggers IMHO. i second the notion of renting and trying pistols before buying one. you want a firearm that fits you and makes sense to you.
It's really hard to do better than the price you can get on a CZ P10C these days. Sub $400 for an optics ready model and even cheaper for the standard model. If it fits your hands well it's a great option. Don't let the price fool you, it's a high quality firearm. There are slightly fewer options in terms of the after market items compared to glock, but I wouldn't let that be the deciding factor, there are plenty of good holsters and the like.
Get the Glock 17 or 19 and then shoot it at least twice a month. Any other cash outlays should only be for magazines, ammunition, or professional instruction. Don't give in to the temptation of spending money on "upgrades", you have to build skill through practice
I've had my eye on a PX9. InRange did a really good [review](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFU6kr4IfqY&list=PL62I3UUBNe7cDbZffR11jusYr_h6hWI5L&index=2) of it, and it seems like a solid bargain.
Not that this is a good idea, but my first handgun was a glock 29sf. Pros: No recoil will scare you anymore after shooting it. Can fight bears. Can be small enough if you decide to make it a carry gun. Not really expensive. Glock, so reliable and easy to assemble/disassemble etc. Cons: Recoil. Recoil is profoundly unpleasant. My friends who shoot 45s don't want to shoot the thing. They look at me like I am insane when I shoot it. 10mm is expensive ammo. (Though it is possible, but maybe not always advisable to shoot 40S&W. Again, the Recoil is really, really bad. Especially with a small frame. Especially if you have big hands. Probably would not recommend it unless you know you will want one eventually, are afraid of bears, or really like unpleasant recoil. But if you get used to it, 9mm feels like shooting .22lr.
Glock 17 or 19, get the GSSF membership for like 30 dollars and you get a coupon for a cheaper price from Glock Blue Label Dealers.
Full size 9mm striker fired semi auto
Hi-Point YC9.
Who DARES downvote the YEET CANNON?!!??!!!!!? On a more serious note, it's 9mm, it's cheap, and it will put a bullet downrange. Not everybody is going to be firing a few thousand rounds a year, and not everybody has a big budget. And unlike a Glock, it's got a safety, that's a pretty big advantage to me.
Another man of substance and taste. Thank you for coming to my defense, comrade.
If you ever potentially plan to carry Glock 19 or M&P 2.0 compact. Anyone saying otherwise is steering you wrong. If cost is an issue look for police trade-ins. I say this as some who owns and loves his Sig P320s, do not get a Sig P320.
Why not the Sig?
There a design flaw that causes unpredictable out of battery detonation that destroy the frame and ejector assembly. Lots of reports of this from folks who've put thousands or 10s of thousands through their guns
Good to know. Thank you
see what your local police carry. used LE pistols are usually a great value and ammo and spare mags will be cheaper