Thread: Handgun.. any recommendations?

There will be a lot of suggestions here, and they will all probably be good ones.
I am partial to Smith and Wesson, but don't let that sway you.
There are several things to consider.

First is you get what you pay for.
If you spend $2000 for a nice Kimber, you will have a good reliable firearm that will not fail you. The same goes for H&K, S&W, Colt, Taurus, etc...

Ask questions If someone tells you a certain brand is beter, ask them why.
reliability, accuracy... etc.
I like Smith & Wesson, because mine have never failed to chamber a round, including questionable hand loads, they have never misfired. They fit my hand well, and feel right. I also have an old off brand 1911, a Taurus, and a Walther that fit that description.

Know your round, and what your intended use is. You wouldn't want to hunt Elephants with a 22, and you aren't going to want to buy a 500 magnum for concealed carry.

If you want a weapon for home security, you should also consider your neighbors. a 357 or 44 magnum have too much penetration and can travel through several houses before stopping.
If you have no intention of carrying and don't have a lot of interest in going to the range, a short barreled pump action 12 gauge shotgun is effective, and can intimidate the most battle hardened criminal.

If you want concealed carry, oso you walk out in front of your house without shouting to the world that you are armed, you may want to consider something smaller like a .32 Beretta, or something in .380 or .40

Do not try to make the gun fit you. As a novice you should look long and hard to find a firearm that feels natural in your hand. If you find such a gun, even if it's not a 45, give it careful consideration.


My suggestion for you for an all around most bang for your buck firearm would be the Springfield XD. It comes in several calibers up to 45, I found it to be very comfortable, it has some good features including an indicator to let you know if you have a round in the chamber without looking.

You can get similar features from almost any firearm manufacturer. so you'll have to shop around.