If you are a beginner looking to buy your first handgun, the process can be daunting, overwhelming, and quite scary. With so many options and factors to consider, choosing the right handgun that fits your needs and preferences can be an exhausting task. You need to ask yourself what your purpose is for owning a handgun. Is it for personal defense, recreational shooting, or competitive shooting? What type of handgun should you buy? What caliber should you choose? In this guide, we’ll be giving you advice on how to choose the right handgun for a beginner.

Purpose

The very first step in choosing the right handgun is to determine your purpose for owning one. If you’re getting a handgun for personal security, then you’ll need to consider a compact handgun that’s easy to carry and conceal. On the other hand, if you’re going to use it for recreational or competitive shooting, then you need to consider a full-sized handgun that will be easier to shoot and handle. This decision is critical because it will dictate the type and size of the handgun you’ll need.

Caliber

Caliber is the diameter of the bullet that the handgun fires. It plays a crucial role in determining the stopping power and recoil of the handgun. For a beginner, it's best to choose a standard caliber as it’s an excellent balance between stopping power and manageable recoil. It’s also readily available and affordable, making it a popular choice for beginners. Avoid exotic calibers, as they’re usually more expensive and harder to find.

Type

There are three types of handguns: semi-automatic pistols, revolvers, and single-shot handguns. Each of these types has its pros and cons, so it's essential to consider what will work best for you. Semi-automatics generally hold more rounds, have higher rates of fire, and are more comfortable to reload. On the other hand, revolvers are more reliable and easier to use. Single-shot handguns are the least popular type and usually have a higher recoil.

Size

The size of the handgun is a critical factor to consider. As a beginner, it’s best to choose a compact or midsize handgun that’s easier to handle. A smaller gun is more comfortable to carry, but it will likely have more recoil, which can be challenging for a beginner. A larger gun may be easier to shoot, but it will be harder to carry and conceal.

Accessories

Once you’ve chosen the right handgun, you’ll need to consider accessories to help you shoot it more comfortably and accurately. Some of these accessories include holsters, sights, grips, and magazines. It's crucial to choose accessories that are reliable and of good quality. Buying low-quality accessories can jeopardize your safety and make it difficult for you to shoot accurately.

For more information on handguns, contact a professional near you.