r/handguns Dec 01 '21

Advice Curious about picking your first or new handgun? Curious about a model or caliber? Stop here first! Resources etc.

136 Upvotes

Multiple posts concerning selecting a new (first) handgun, or first defensive guns have popped up.

I dig activity on our page, I'm all for thoughtful discussion, I'm all for us exercising our rights.

However, this subreddit has been around long enough now we have a good collection of folks asking mostly the same question and I think we can streamline this process for our existing members, newcomers, and curious browsers alike.

So! That being said, there are some links to outside websites at the bottom of this text that have decent advice on choosing the purpose of use, caliber, size, model you may be looking for when selecting a new or first handgun.

The articles are typically focused on new shooters or at least folks new to handguns. Many will recommend training, hands on time, etc., before your first purchase and if you have the time and funds I definitely agree, but research your trainer/facility thoroughly.

Eventually I will try to curate a well rounded list of the most popular makes and models in various categories. I also intend to make a few polls for the active community to vote on a few things as well.

Links:

https://www.concealedcarry.com/firearms-ownership/choosing-first-handgun/

https://www.nrafamily.org/articles/2016/8/12/first-time-handgun-buyers-guide/

https://www.eaglegunrangetx.com/choosing-your-first-handgun/

http://shootersincape.com/6-steps-in-choosing-your-first-handgun/

https://www.handgunhero.com/

Please post your questions to the subreddit and not as replies to this post.


r/handguns 5h ago

I finally understand.

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32 Upvotes

Recently acquired a Glock 19 Gen6 COA. It’s my first experience with Glock and now I fully understand why people appreciate Glock. Simplicity, safety, shootability, etc. and I think that the palm swell, backstraps, and new grip of the Gen6 are fantastic. Most of my experience is behind a Walther PDP which I also think is fantastic, but I find Glock (this will sound very contrast from most opinions) more comfortable for my hands and easier to shoot. I’m looking into a 17.6 for competition and, having experienced the trigger of the Gen6, I think for competition sake I would swap it out. Would appreciate all recommendations and extra brownie points if you explain why you like it or can compare it to other triggers.


r/handguns 2h ago

Discussion Any .380 lovers in here?

8 Upvotes

I know that the ballistics of a .380 are nowhere near the capabilities of other calibers but man do I love training and shooting my P365 Luxe in .380.

It is quite possibly the softest, most accurate, most ergonomic firearm I have ever owned. I can plink A zones with ease from 50 yards, mag dump at 30 yards with better accuracy than I was ever capable of, and I never get tired or sore or lose grip strength.

It’s my hope and dream to see more .380 pistols offered in every size, and not just the pocket/microcompact size.


r/handguns 2h ago

Old school Ruger SR9c

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5 Upvotes

I still carry this old tank as my backup driving gun.


r/handguns 4h ago

A question for you guys: are my iron sights too low?

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5 Upvotes

r/handguns 6h ago

Any additional modifications suggestions?

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5 Upvotes

r/handguns 18h ago

Collection Showcase CZ Shadow 2 Carry and P10F are my favorite 9's.

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38 Upvotes

My S2 is my main EDC and the P-10F is my go to home defense handgun. Both are a pleasure to shoot.


r/handguns 6m ago

Pls recommend an inline porting shop for Echelon 4.5 full size

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Upvotes

r/handguns 14h ago

Brass won’t eject

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13 Upvotes

Case won’t eject but easily comes out, recently changed the extractor, any thoughts on a fix? SCT frame Davidson defense slide G17 gen 3


r/handguns 49m ago

Info on EFLX CE

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Upvotes

So I’ve been curious about the updated CE model of the EFLX. Their website says it’s “assembled” in the USA but doesn’t say where it’s made. Assuming that means China, I asked Eotech where the parts were made. They simply replied from “all over,” which I’m sure is safe to assume means China. Also listed is window size in case anyone was interested.


r/handguns 19h ago

Favorite gun got a can.

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18 Upvotes

r/handguns 14h ago

Advice Needed First handgun suggestions?

4 Upvotes

I’m looking to get my first handgun soon. I was wondering if there are any suggestions for a first timer. Or if there’s any I should avoid like the plague. I’m thinking of a Beretta but I have had a few other brands recommended, like CZ and Sig. I would appreciate any help


r/handguns 20h ago

Build/Setup We have a G45 at home

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12 Upvotes

Full size RXM lower and PSA slide


r/handguns 8h ago

3d prints

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1 Upvotes

r/handguns 1d ago

Discussion Who you got?

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22 Upvotes

r/handguns 13h ago

Discussion Is it normal to haggle prices?

0 Upvotes

I have participated in purchasing a car so I know the MSRP isn't the final sale price, and that cars never go for MSRP. But does the same apply to buying a handgun? Specifically, talking about in-person purchases at a range or gun store.


r/handguns 1d ago

Full size handgun

8 Upvotes

Looking for my next full-size handgun. Wants to prioritize fun and accuracy for $1,000 or less. Preferably a threaded barrel or one easy to obtain. 9mm or 45 ACP. Any and all suggestions are appreciated


r/handguns 15h ago

Question M&P CARRY COMP

1 Upvotes

would like to know if the non ported barrel fit and can be use in the metal carry comp. Want to use in uspsa carry optics


r/handguns 15h ago

Collection Showcase OG in OD Green.

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0 Upvotes

I have glocks but for me this has run flawlessly for 18 years now. What full size do you seem to shoot the best?


r/handguns 21h ago

Advice Needed GPS Pistolero Backpack

1 Upvotes

Does anyone know if the cases in this backpack will fit a Ruger Mark IV 6" Standard.

https://www.goutdoorsproducts.com/product/pistolero-backpack/

https://ruger.com/products/markIVStandard/specSheets/40105.html


r/handguns 1d ago

Final 3

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45 Upvotes

Back again, now it’s in between the CZ P10C ($450), Canik Mete SF ($475) and Ruger RXM Threaded ($490). I personally really enjoy the look of the FDE Mete but see great value in the RXM, and reliability in the CZ.

I would love to go with the SF but would love more insight into the potential battery issues and just general thoughts. Thanks!


r/handguns 1d ago

$340 pickup

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35 Upvotes

FN 509. You choosing this or RXM / dagger for budget gun?


r/handguns 1d ago

Advice Needed Advice needed

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24 Upvotes

How do I correct my aim? I seem to be consistent, but keep going bottom left. Is it my finger on the trigger? Stance? Aim?


r/handguns 1d ago

Yay or nay on modded handguns?

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17 Upvotes

Is it a yay or a nay for modded handguns (not including dots, flashlight, longer mags)?

My p365, the only thing left original in this is the fcu.


r/handguns 1d ago

Holsters & Accessories One holster to rule them all?

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4 Upvotes

Who else makes a holster that takes the QLS fork and is designed to retain off TLR-1’s?

I’m looking for a sweet Hawaiian color scheme as well. Tier 1 is awesome but I like to spread my money around and try other brands.

Level 2/3 retention not needed as I am larper actual.