[cadkins]

Hi. I'm looking to get my first pistol. I really don't know where to start. I know I want to use it for target shooting and for personal protection as well. Any suggestions? I've shot the beretta m9 before and loved it.

[orangello]

Do you have a price range in mind? Have you shot many different pistols? Is there a range nearby at which you could rent some pistols to try out? Will the pistol ever be concealed/carried (lightweight costs)?

I would start by trying out or at least handling as many different pistols as possible. Don't rule out anything you can afford, as you never really know what will just "fit" you.

For a budget semiauto, i would consider a reliable Ruger P95 9mm, can be had for around $300.

They do sell Beretta's and Taurus makes a knock-off. http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/21_52/products_id/23504 Bud's says $550ish.

I wouldn't rule out a lightly used pistol, if the seller was trustworthy.

[tCan]

I think the Ruger SR9 / SR40 might be a good starter option. I'm NOT a fan of double action triggers. I hate shooting our PX4, even though it's a pretty nice pistol.

[cadkins]

My price range would try not to go over &600. I've never really shot many real pistols. Ive messed around a lot with airsoft, but that's about it. Unfortunately there is no range nearby where I live. And I would possibly like to get a concealed permit, but not a major factor to me.

[cadkins]

Strkie that. I just found out that there is a range about 40 min. away.

[tCan]

If you're looking for a concealed carry gun, both the SR9 and SR40 come in a compact version with a shorter grip and barrel. The model numbers are SR9c and SR40c

[cadkins]

I appreciate all the suggestions. I found a local range and I'm very excited to.drop in and try out a few different guns.

[orangello]

Originally Posted by cadkins

My price range would try not to go over &600. I've never really shot many real pistols. Ive messed around a lot with airsoft, but that's about it.

In that price range, you have a lot of options. I sincerely suggest you either find a place to "test drive" some different handguns and/or some buddies who will let you try their firearms on for fit.

I would try on a Ruger GP100 revolver in .357/.38, a cz-75b 9mm, a 1911 in .45ACP, and a polymer pistol like a Glock or the Springfield XD or XDm line. That should give you some idea of what kind of full-sized pistol you might enjoy shooting. I would go for a full-size for range and home and look for a carry piece later, but others will disagree. You should also try out a few of the smaller firearms to see how you like them.

[Byron0022]

I would consider a 9mm if this is your first handgun. I know a lot of folks don't like them ammo is cheap and there are a lot of models too choose from. Accuracy is the most important part of defending yourself with a firearm so it doesn't matter if you are using a 22 or 454 if you can't hit em.

[Overkill0084]

Since your a firearms newb, I would strongly recommend a basic handgun class before committing to anything. Also, find a range that will rent guns and take some for a test drive. I could say "Go buy a ______, it's great," but you might end up hating it. You may find you like revolvers or something else I've not considered. We can all throw out ideas, but at the end of the day, you're going to have to do the legwork.