I’ve never fired a gun before—never even handled one. I’m considering buying a pistol strictly for home defense. It’ll probably stay in the house and not be carried around. What pistols should I look into? Are there specific ones you’d recommend I try out?
You should get a full-size handgun. Since you’re not planning to carry it around, you don’t need a smaller, more concealable one. Full-size pistols are easier to handle, especially for new shooters.
Eli said:
You should get a full-size handgun. Since you’re not planning to carry it around, you don’t need a smaller, more concealable one. Full-size pistols are easier to handle, especially for new shooters.
Good point. I’ll check out some options at a range. Any specific full-size models you’d recommend for a beginner?
Eli said:
You should get a full-size handgun. Since you’re not planning to carry it around, you don’t need a smaller, more concealable one. Full-size pistols are easier to handle, especially for new shooters.
Sure! Try Glock 17, Smith & Wesson M&P, or a Sig Sauer P320. All are reliable and beginner-friendly. Definitely go to a range where you can test them out before deciding.
Go to a range that rents guns and start with these: Glock 17 or 19, Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm, and Sig Sauer P320. All are reliable and great for beginners.
Winslow said:
Go to a range that rents guns and start with these: Glock 17 or 19, Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm, and Sig Sauer P320. All are reliable and great for beginners.
Are those three separate guns or four? Your comment could use a few commas!
@Micah
I think they meant four different guns. Definitely needed commas for clarity.
Before buying, take a gun safety class. Then head to a range where you can rent pistols and try out several models. See what feels comfortable for you, and go from there.
Start with a firearms safety course. Once you’re familiar with handling guns safely, visit a range that rents pistols. Try different types—hammer-fired, striker-fired, etc.—and see what feels right. A full-size, steel-framed pistol is generally easier to shoot and great for home defense.
I recommend the Canik TP9 series. I have the Elite Combat, and it’s fantastic for the price. It also comes with lots of extras, like optic plates and back straps.
Taj said:
I recommend the Canik TP9 series. I have the Elite Combat, and it’s fantastic for the price. It also comes with lots of extras, like optic plates and back straps.
I just got a Canik, too, and I love it so far. Great value for the money.
Consider a CZ 75 SP-01, Beretta 92 A1, or a Sig P226. Since you’re not carrying it, there’s no need to go for lightweight plastic models. Also, invest in a good weapon-mounted light like a Streamlight or Surefire.
If you’re new to guns and not planning to practice much, a shotgun might be a better choice than a pistol. Shotguns are easier to aim and more forgiving in high-stress situations. If you do go with a pistol, make sure you practice regularly.
@Lior
I do plan to practice. I’ll make time for range sessions to get comfortable with whatever I end up choosing.
Don’t overlook a pump-action shotgun for home defense. Racking the slide is a sound that can stop intruders in their tracks.
Zhen said:
Don’t overlook a pump-action shotgun for home defense. Racking the slide is a sound that can stop intruders in their tracks.
True, but that sound also gives away your position. Keep that in mind.
If you’re new to firearms, start with a .38 revolver. They’re simple to use and very reliable. Just know that they usually have limited capacity—5-6 shots—and you’ll need to reload quickly in a pinch.
Owning a gun is a big responsibility. Make sure you know how to handle it safely and are aware of your local laws. Training is essential—not just for accuracy but also for understanding when and how to use your firearm.