Choosing your first handgun can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With a variety of options available, it’s essential to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences. At Modeltown Firearms, we understand the importance of selecting the right firearm for beginners. In this guide, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing your first handgun.

1. Determine Your Purpose

Before diving into the specifics of handguns, it’s essential to determine the primary purpose of your firearm. Are you looking for a gun for personal protection, home defense, sport shooting, or perhaps all three?

Purpose Matters

– Self-Defense: A compact or subcompact handgun may be more suitable for concealed carry.

– Target Shooting: A full-sized handgun with a longer barrel may provide better accuracy and stability.

– Home Defense: Consider a firearm that you can handle comfortably in a home environment.

2. Caliber Selection

The caliber of your handgun is a crucial factor that affects performance, recoil, and overall shooting experience. Common calibers for handguns include .22 LR, 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP.

Understanding Caliber

– .380 ACP: Ideal for beginners due to low recoil and affordability, making it perfect for practice. Often come in small harder to handle recoil firearms.

– 9mm: A popular choice for self-defense, offering a balance of manageable recoil and stopping power.

– .40 S&W and .45 ACP: Suitable for those who prefer larger calibers, but may have increased recoil.

At Modeltown Firearms, we can help you understand the differences between calibers and recommend options based on your comfort level and intended use.

3. Choose the Right Size

Handguns come in various sizes, including full-size, compact, and subcompact models. Your choice of size will depend on your intended use and personal comfort.

Size Considerations

– Full-Size: Offers better accuracy and capacity but may be less suitable for concealed carry.

– Compact: Strikes a balance between size and capacity, making it a versatile option for both concealed carry and home defense.

– Subcompact: Ideal for concealed carry due to its smaller size but may have a reduced magazine capacity.

4. Grip and Ergonomics

The grip of the handgun is one of the most critical factors for comfort and control. A proper grip allows for better accuracy and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions.

Finding the Right Grip

– Test Different Models: At Modeltown Firearms, we encourage you to hold and test various handguns to see which grip feels best in your hand.

– Consider Grip Texture: A textured grip can provide better control, especially in adverse conditions.

5. Action Type

Handguns can be classified into different action types, including single action (SA), double action (DA), and striker-fired. Each type has its characteristics and advantages.

Action Types Explained

– Single Action (SA): Requires the hammer to be cocked manually before firing. Generally has a lighter trigger pull.

– Double Action (DA): Can be fired in double-action mode (pulling the trigger cocks and releases the hammer) or single-action mode.

– Striker-Fired: Offers a consistent trigger pull with no external hammer, making it a popular choice for many modern handguns.

6. Safety Features

Safety is paramount when handling firearms, and different handguns come with various safety features. Familiarize yourself with these features to ensure you choose a firearm that meets your safety needs.

Common Safety Features

– Manual Safety: Requires the shooter to engage or disengage a safety mechanism.

– Trigger Safety: Prevents the trigger from being pulled unless pressure is applied to a specific area.

– Drop Safety: Ensures the firearm will not discharge if dropped.

7. Budget Considerations

Handguns are available at various price points. Determine your budget before shopping, and remember to factor in additional costs such as ammunition, holsters, and training.

Finding the Right Price

At Modeltown Firearms, we offer a range of handguns that fit various budgets, ensuring that you can find a quality firearm without breaking the bank. We will help find a firearm that fits the function, your hand, and your budget.

Conclusion

Choosing your first handgun is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By understanding your purpose, selecting the right caliber and size, and evaluating safety features, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs. At Modeltown Firearms, we are dedicated to helping new firearm owners find the perfect handgun for their journey into responsible gun ownership.

Visit us today to explore our selection and receive personalized assistance in selecting your first handgun. Empower yourself with knowledge and make the right choice for your shooting experience. Here at www.modeltownfirearms we aim to serve the customer and when you buy local you support your neighbors.