Noob looking for first gun...

[Buzz]

A pump gun could be an option for in home defense. A riot gun will hold 7+1 rounds with way more power than a handgun, and is easier to shoot. But there are law enforcement trade-in pistols for around $300 in 9mm, .40, and .45.

A shotgun is a highly effective home defense weapon. They are readily available and relatively inexpensive. All good points.

The problem with a shotgun is that you can't be discreet. Answering the door with a shotgun is kinda tough on the girls selling Girl Scout cookies!

[Oh Shoot]

A shotgun is a highly effective home defense weapon. They are readily available and relatively inexpensive. All good points....

As much as I like handguns, can assure you I'll grab my shottie if I can for any HOME defense needs.

Remington 870 pump, 18" barrel, 7 round capacity. Around $325 new.

It's the best bang for the buck in all the firearm world IMNSHO.

- OS

[Magiccarpetrides]

Honest AK it should be known that you can get a 9mm revolver :-D

[Guest Honest AK]

wow i never knew it was that significant a difference. i need to look into a 9mm now.

and HonestAK, i just got into handguns about six months ago. it was tough to choose a gun, hearing so many different opinions and suggestions. i never heard i could rent guns, so i shot the few i could and ended up with a gun i thought i liked. after shooting some others, i've found there are many guns i like much more for about the same price, or a bit higher.

i've sold that first handgun and collected a few more, and i'm still not sure i have the right guns for me. i think i'll always be able to find one i like better.

bottom line you should rent, borrow, and shoot as many guns as you can until you find something you like, then buy it.

What was your first handgun? What made you get rid of it?

[Angus]

Ok dude...I will warn you. I bought my first gun in Oct of 2007,a ruger security six for $20. I got a fantesticle deal on it, and was going to use it to trade in on the gun I REALLLLY wanted.

Well, now I love that gun..its a .38. So, now I am saving up for my new gun....a .45. And everyone here is correct in what they have told you. But for sure....hold and shoot the gun you are looking to buy. I was told to stay away from Glocks because they are soooooo BIG, but I am 6'3 and 280, I can palm a basketball with these paws...so I like the G21.

My point.......get a feel for a gun. Once you get one...yer screwed...heh...good luck dude.

[SpacemanSpiff]

When possible try a gun before you buy. What I found useful was going to the range with a friend who owned a gun and hoped that someone would offer to let me try their gun. Don't ask, let them offer. My first gun was a Glock 19. Almost every gun after that was something that I tried (or similar) at the range. Don't get "talked" into anything. I have 3-.357 revolvers and love them. I also have semi-autos. What's right for me may not be right for you.

Other info I sent you in a PM as well.

Good Luck

[Guest dedolson]

If you have an indoor gun range close by you might want to see if they have rental guns that you can try. I know the Armory here in Knoxville has a great selection of handguns in most all calibers. They even let you change same caliber weapons at no additional charge.

[towerclimber37]

wow i never knew it was that significant a difference. i need to look into a 9mm now.

and HonestAK, i just got into handguns about six months ago. it was tough to choose a gun, hearing so many different opinions and suggestions. i never heard i could rent guns, so i shot the few i could and ended up with a gun i thought i liked. after shooting some others, i've found there are many guns i like much more for about the same price, or a bit higher.

i've sold that first handgun and collected a few more, and i'm still not sure i have the right guns for me. i think i'll always be able to find one i like better.

bottom line you should rent, borrow, and shoot as many guns as you can until you find something you like, then buy it.

or just wait for verbal kint or Tungsten to take an interest in it...they'll buy one, trick it out and then sell it after awhile.

[TGO David]

or just wait for verbal kint or Tungsten to take an interest in it...they'll buy one, trick it out and then sell it after awhile.

I think I've weeded out the chaff in my selection at this point. He'll be waiting a while before I let go of any of the ones we have.

[Guest janwbrown616]

Even a 22 is better than pointing your finger at someone. But, you should try and shoot as much as you can with as many guns as you can before you decide on what you like.

When training federal agents we always started them off the first day or so with model 66 Smiths. But we moved on to Glocks as soon as they had the basics. Then, we worked on shooting, reloading, jams and tactical.

Knowing money is tight is a problem, but, take your time and don't rush into anything. If you do buy, try and buy used. It'll take the bit out of selling later for something else.