What's a good starter handgun?

ForeverSilky

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Apr 6, 2000
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I was thinkning about getting a handgun and I'm not very knowledgable about different types of handguns. I'm looking for something decent but doesn't cost more than $400. Any advice for me? What types of handguns do you have and like? Thanks.
 

RGN

Diamond Member
Feb 24, 2000
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That doesn't cost more than $400? Hmm, I don't know what gun prices are in your part of the country, but here that will not get you much.

Look for the traditional Colt .45 and it copies. (like Springfield Armory, and ???)

Try not to go with a Glock. They really are not THAT good.

Maybe a revolver would be in that price range, get a .357 with a 4" barrel. S&W, Colt and most Taurus are ok.

You can PM me with specific questions.
 

Tripleshot

Elite Member
Jan 29, 2000
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Taurus PT911B is a fine weapon at 9mm and its a keeper,not a starter. If you have $400 to spend,that will do it.You can buy 4 "starter" weapons for that amount,but why waste your money on something you would use for a little while and then put away. You will like this Taurus,believe me.:)
 

BeHeMOTH

Senior member
Nov 9, 1999
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something small like a 9mm or .380 are fun and not that bad. Of course price means quality walter ppk, sig, S&W .38, beretta . Ruger 9's are cheap and ok I just love H&K.:)
 

shiner

Lifer
Jul 18, 2000
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Starter handgun? I'm as pro gun as anyone alive and I don't like the sound of that. Please make sure you know how to use it before you start carrying it.
 

SuperGroove

Diamond Member
Dec 17, 1999
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An invisible gun. I kinda am getting off my little gun craze.


Ask Russ. He knows a ton about guns.
 

Moonbeam

Elite Member
Nov 24, 1999
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Just ask the local track coach. They can tell you where to get a starter gun and it shouldn't cost anything like four hundred either.
 

raptor13

Golden Member
Oct 9, 1999
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Moonbeam, I think you maybe missed the boat on this one. ;)






(Very funny, by the way.) :D
 

MrChicken

Senior member
Feb 18, 2000
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Advice, freely given and worth what you just paid for it.

Here's mine. Take that $400 to a reputable shooting range and use it to get trained by a proffessional. Listen to what they tell you, learn what they teach you. After that you will know what gun you want/need and know how to use it, maintain it and keep it.
Then start saving for the gun you decided on.

You could substitute the gun proffessional with a friend that really knows their guns, but I would guess that if you knew somebody like that , you wouldnt be asking this question on this board.

I dont want to sound like a pompous a$$ here, but you can do things with gun that cannot be undone. A gun doesnt discriminate, you, your enemies, your friemds, your family all are the same to gun, it will hurt or kill any of them. Know how to use a gun before you handle one.
 

Soybomb

Diamond Member
Jun 30, 2000
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Out of curiosity what do you want it for? Carrying, home defense, shooting range? I've always heard you should try out some different guns at a range before you buy....
 

BiggieN

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Apr 3, 2000
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anyone in illinois want to help me out? i will soon be applying for a firearms license. my father already has one but he's not renewing it anymore. what else do i need? any good gun enthusiast sites (anand for computers; ? for guns)


i've undergone gun safety training and have gone to ranges before but knows no one that owns their own handguns.
 

Lalakai

Golden Member
Nov 30, 1999
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for plinking at the range and terrorizing tin cans, you can't beat a simple .22 for accuracy, consistancy, and low cost for ammo. There are several styles of Brownings and Rugers that are very decent pistols and will cost less then $300.

Simple and very safe pistols are revolvers; if you want more then a .22, consider a 357; you can shoot 38 or 38 specials, still relatively inexpenive ammo and usually pretty accurate (if you go with adjustable sights). A Ruger 101 will run about $379 and a Taurus will be in the same ball park. This will give you a good "range" pistol, a decent hunting pistol (keep your distance less then 40 yards), and probably the best home style pistol.

If you like auto's, you can get Rugers, Taurus's and a host of used pistols for less then $400.

As was mentioned before, you're best choice is to find a range or a friend who has pistols you can shoot, then see what you like. Really look at your primary purpose/use of the pistol, and remember that you are looking for a pistol that you can use to learn about shooting a pistol safely and to enjoy. At this point in time definetly stay away from the 44's and maybe even the 45's.

Just take it slow and safe.
 

ForeverSilky

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Apr 6, 2000
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I wasn't just going to go buy one and start shooting. I'm gonna go to a shooting range and get training, then I'll decide.
 

StageLeft

No Lifer
Sep 29, 2000
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I always found the best way to get used to guns in your life was to buy the biggest and most powerful one you can afford. Carry it around and when you get drunk with your buddies fire at bottles - you'll find that the skills you develop while drunk equate to marksman quality accuracy when you're not drunk. Also when somebody is pissing you off make sure they know you're carrying - and never be afraid to draw it down on a sucka when he's steppin' up!

--

Actually I liked the idea of the guy below who said take that $400 to training because after that you'll know what you want and be very comfortable with the decision. Don't even worry about it till then.
 

Tominator

Diamond Member
Oct 9, 1999
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Jumpem If you were to read the article, you's find it was the ammunition at fault.;)

Glocks are for Professionals! They are THE most dangerous semi-auto in untrained hands. However, they seem to be getting an undeserved reputation.



Tripleshot has got the right idea. The Taurus line takes second seat to none! Lifetime Warranty, accurizing service, and a Customer Support Team that is the best in the industry.

My only problem with Colt 45ACP clones is you need to buy an expensive semi-custom gun to be assured of a reliable and accurate handgun. Most out of the box clones are POS! Colts included. One might work like a charm and the next be a POS that will kill your enthusiasim.

Best bet is to rent some guns at the range and try them out. Get advice from the folks running it....but get advice elsewhere as well.