New shooter questions

newshooter1a · #1 02-13-2019, 09:59 PM

Hey there all. I'm looking at getting a revolver as my first gun to learn to shoot with and get comfortable. I have been looking at the 43c for relative ease of shooting and lower ammo cost. I've handled the these small airweight models before and the size feels good to me. Simplicity of revolvers is what's drawing me to them over an autoloader. Anyone pick one of these up more recently that can give their impression? Is there another .22lr model that you would recommend instead? A few people I've talked to tried to steer me away from the .22lr saying that if I ever had to use it in a defensive situation it would fail miserably. Recommended a .38spcl model instead and said you can use light loads that will have similar recoil. This is a new world to me so any help is much appreciated. Trying to find a local range that has a .22 and .38 that I can try out by the way.

342ti · #2 02-13-2019, 10:08 PM

Buy an older pre lock, 357mag, you’ll eventually want magnum force, for Home/Self Defense. You can shoot 38spl in it ALL day long for cheap, light loads, for practice/range time.

Rpg · #3 02-13-2019, 10:14 PM

The 43c is an excellent choice!!

It’s very pleasant to shoot and ammo costs are low, both crucial to skill development.

Some day you might want a 38 or 357, but you’ll be happier starting with a 22.

22hipower · #4 02-13-2019, 10:14 PM

Welcome to the forum, lots of information (and opinions) here. I wouldn't recommend a 43C as a first revolver. In my experience the double action trigger pull on these is very heavy and doesn't contribute to accuracy. If you want a 22LR, and can't go wrong with one of those, take a look at the stainless steel 63s; three inch barrel now but earlier ones came with four inch and the -4 with five inch so there are potential choices. Understand that you'll be buying more soon and can easily move up to a 38/357 where there are many, many options. Like potato chips, no one is satisfied with just one. Good luck and enjoy the sport.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

nate-dogg · #5 02-13-2019, 10:28 PM

I also wouldn't advise getting a 43c as a first revolver. Shooting double action only with a short barrel and fixed sights probably wouldn't be fun at the range for a beginner. I think starting with 22lr is a great idea, so I would suggest a 22lr with an exposed hammer. A model 17, 18, 63, 617, or 317 would all be great options for a fun range gun to start with. My wife and daughter enjoy shooting my model 63 with 3 Inch and model 17 with 6 inch.

Seadragon · #6 02-13-2019, 11:45 PM

As others have advised, the 43C would not be my choice for a first gun. For a first gun, I want something that I will be able to hit things with and the double action only combined with the short sight radius is going to make that very hard. Not being able to hit what you aim at will be discouraging for a new shooter, not a good thing.

Nothing wrong with a 22 as a first gun, particularly from an ammo cost standpoint. A lot of fun to be had with one at the range at very little cost. I would probably opt for a 4 inch 617; it will very closely duplicate the size and feel of that 686 you're going to want a few months down the road.

But if the smaller J frame is your preference then a 63 or 317 would be a good choice. And of course there are plenty of used variations of these models out there to be had.

I would not approach this as my only gun purchase. It's true you'll likely want to step up to a 38/357 but that is no reason to deny yourself the pleasures of a 22. Every gun owner should have one!

Bill Raby · #7 02-14-2019, 12:03 AM

I agree with the others. A 22 is the way to go for your first gun. Brand or model does not really make any difference. Of course better quality is always worth paying a bit extra. Get whatever feels good for you. Exposed hammer is the way to go. Adjustable sights would be helpful. And stay away from the small guns. Those are meant to be easy to conceal. Not easy to shoot. Forget about center fire for a while. You don't even know what you like and what you don't in a gun yet. Takes some time at the shooting range to figure that out.

delcrossv · #8 02-14-2019, 12:29 AM

Most ranges have guns for rent. I'd suggest calling around and seeing what they have in 22 or 38 rental revolvers. I agree, a snubby is not a good first gun to learn the ropes. I'd recommend trying a Model 10. They're great shooters and as said above, 38spl ammo is pretty inexpensive.

F75gunslinger · #9 02-14-2019, 12:40 AM

I would suggest a Model 63 as others have said, or even a model 17. Something with a decent sight radius ( the distance between the back and front sights ) and a good trigger.

silentflyer · #10 02-14-2019, 09:02 AM

Start with a K-frame .22 and after you get proficient with it move up to a K frame .38 or .357.

Telecaster · #11 02-14-2019, 09:15 AM

A .22LR revolver is an ideal first gun. An all-steel frame is better, the lighter the weight the harder it will be to hold steady as you pull the trigger. A J-frame model 63 is nice, or a K-frame.

You did say "first gun" (wisely), implying that you'll get more... When you feel ready you can get that .357 Magnum for defensive use.

Plenty of bad people have been stopped by .22LR, it'll do if you have nothing else available.

two-bit cowboy · #12 02-14-2019, 09:38 AM

Welcome aboard from the hills of ol' Wyo.

After reading your post I was ready to wholeheartedly support your idea of picking up a Model 43C. I have one and really enjoy shooting it -- puts a smile on my face with every trigger pull. I have a big mitt so I put a Hogue Centennial Tamer grip on mine: offers much better purchase than the standard boot grip so it gives me far greater control.

Having absorbed the other folks' negative inputs has tempered my initial zeal, but not much. If you can master the techniques needed to be accurate with a double-action-only Centennial model (like the 43C), you'll be able to enjoy any revolver. Patience, training and practice is all you need.

Find a local club where club members will let you try their revolvers (or, as you mentioned, a range where you can rent some different ones), take a handgun course from an expert and have a bit of fun for a while. You don't need to rush into a purchase.

Enjoy,

Bob

ps: I never cease to be amazed how many folks on this forum will recommend a Centennial Model (640, 642, etc.) in .38 Special for a new shooter who is looking for a concealed carry weapon, but they'll try to talk somebody else out of a .22 Centennial. Just a side note.

Muss Muggins · #13 02-14-2019, 09:43 AM

Best suggestion in this thread. Ditto . . .

Quote:

Originally Posted by delcrossv

Most ranges have guns for rent. I'd suggest calling around and seeing what they have in 22 or 38 rental revolvers. I agree, a snubby is not a good first gun to learn the ropes. I'd recommend trying a Model 10. They're great shooters and as said above, 38spl ammo is pretty inexpensive.

BAM-BAM · #14 02-14-2019, 09:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by newshooter1a

Hey there all. I'm looking at getting a revolver as my first gun to learn to shoot with and get comfortable.

"first gun" my recommendation would be a 4"or 6" K-frame .22.... these are great for learning/teaching shooting and gun handling; and will have a life time or two of use.

Once you've got the basics down ....... add...... a 4" 686; which is IMO just about the best all round revolver for defense/duty/utility with .38s and .357s

double-dipper · #15 02-14-2019, 10:07 AM

Welcome to the forum! I agree with what delcrossv and Muss said. If you have a friend that shoots maybe you could tag along with them to the range and shoot their handguns. There is nothing wrong with a .22 for your first gun for personal protection/home defense. it beats a knife, stick or rock any day. when you're ready to move up in gun you could look at and shoot the .38/357, 9mm, 40, 45's later.

goldwinghg · #16 02-14-2019, 10:50 AM

If I were you. If there is a gun range close to you. I would check them out,and see what they have for rent. Try different guns,to see which one you like. It is best for you to get what you like. Not what somebody says you will like. You are paying for it. Get what works for you.

junglefighter · #17 02-14-2019, 10:57 AM

IMHO,the two best new 22lr revolvers are the Model 63 and Model 617/6. Fun to shoot and easy to move up in caliber from there.

H Richard · #18 02-14-2019, 11:05 AM

The 43C is more of an experts gun. The light weight and heavy trigger make it difficult to "learn" on. I agree with all the others that recommend a heavier larger .22 until such time as you become more proficient. It is a wonderful idea "if" you can find a range that has loaner guns in various sizes to try. Shooting a 43C and a Mod 18 or 17 side by side will really open your eye's as to what you need to do to control each.

hobby-gunsmith · #19 02-14-2019, 11:17 AM

Welcome new shooter and asking questions for your first gun. First, I would take the NRA Basic Pistol Instructor led 8 hour course from an experienced NRA Instructor. I would definitely start with a .22 RF with at least a three or four inch barrel. Every one should have at least one .22 for practice in sight alignment and trigger control and not expensive to shoot. The instructor should show you how to fit your hand to the gun. Fit is very important when purchasing a gun. Just because some one recommends a particular gun does not mean that gun will fit your hand or have tremendous recoil. It is just like purchasing a pair of shoes without trying them on for comfort. After you are comfortable with the .22, move up to a .357 magnum/.38spl for home defense and concealed carry with at least a three inch barrel. Later, you may want to step up to a semi-auto with enough experience under your belt. Try different guns at a range or gun store that rents guns. A lot of people purchase a handgun and find out later that the gun is hard on the hands and has a tremendous recoil and stick it in a drawer and never use it again. This is a big step and you should have the right instructor to give the needy insight. Good Luck.

Nick

gwpercle · #20 02-14-2019, 02:19 PM

A nice 22 LR is always a pleasure to shoot and is excellent for a first gun.
It may not be a great self defense round but you have to learn how to shoot first ! Noting beats a 22 LR as a learning to shoot gun....nothing.
Get one with adjustable sights....I'm kinda partial to the model 317 Airlite with 3 inch bbl and adjustable sights. The model 63 is another excellent all steel revolver with adjustable sights .
As far as defense....learn to shoot it well then move up to 38 special.
I've watched my Grandfather kill many big hogs with a single 22 LR shot.
He told me ...." Boy.....It's not what you shoot them with...it's where you place that bullet " .
Gary

Narragansett · #21 02-14-2019, 02:49 PM

Welcome to the forum. Somebody may be able to direct you to a range, if they knew your location.

Lots of opinions here so you get a lot to think about.

Now my opinion................i would never start with a snub nose in any caliber. You limit your shooting distance. meaning if you want to punch paper at 25 yards, your are handicapped. a 22 is a good choice to practice and learn. I like older guns in model 17 and 18 for 22's

i agree with not buying a 38, but rather a 357 magnum. Nothing says you have to shoot magnum loads, but you can shoot economical 38 special ammo in a 357. Recoil is very manageable. Models to look at depending on your finances, hand size etc. Models 19, 28-2, 27-2, 66, and there are others, and others i am sure will tell you more about the stainless models. That is another concern. Do you want stainless or blue?

Check the Want to Sell section of this forum. Don't be afraid to call on forum members for thoughts on pricing used guns.

Lots of info here, and welcome again

galena · #22 02-14-2019, 03:15 PM

Read what hobby-gunsmith said above. Then read it again and follow his advice.

nate-dogg · #23 02-14-2019, 05:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by two-bit cowboy

ps: I never cease to be amazed how many folks on this forum will recommend a Centennial Model (640, 642, etc.) in .38 Special for a new shooter who is looking for a concealed carry weapon, but they'll try to talk somebody else out of a .22 Centennial. Just a side note.

I think I fall into the category of folks that you were talking about. I think for a concealed carry gun it is important to have a hammer that is not exposed to avoid snagging on clothing when drawing the weapon. I also think 38 Special should be the minimum caliber first self defense gun. The original poster wasn't asking for a concealed carry gun for a new shooter so I think for ease of practicing and learning how to shoot accurately, a 22 with exposed hammer and adjustable sights and longer sight radius would really help learn the fundamentals of shooting.

newshooter1a · #24 02-14-2019, 05:38 PM

I Wow thanks for all the thoughtful responses. Local gun shop/range has a Smith and Wesson model 10 in 38 special and a Ruger GP100 .22 that I can try out. Hopefully that’s a decent starting point and gives me more direction. So many options, models, barrel lengths, etc. I will say that the model 10 is a really cool looking gun. I have a feeling that after this first trip to shoot I’ll be heading down the rabbit hole.

Wise_A · #25 02-14-2019, 07:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by newshooter1a

Hey there all. I'm looking at getting a revolver as my first gun to learn to shoot with and get comfortable. I have been looking at the 43c for relative ease of shooting and lower ammo cost. I've handled the these small airweight models before and the size feels good to me. Simplicity of revolvers is what's drawing me to them over an autoloader. Anyone pick one of these up more recently that can give their impression? Is there another .22lr model that you would recommend instead? A few people I've talked to tried to steer me away from the .22lr saying that if I ever had to use it in a defensive situation it would fail miserably. Recommended a .38spcl model instead and said you can use light loads that will have similar recoil. This is a new world to me so any help is much appreciated. Trying to find a local range that has a .22 and .38 that I can try out by the way.

I didn't read any of the responses. Sorry dudes, long day, pressed for time.

OP--I think that both are just miserable options for you to learn on. A lightweight J-frame in .22LR might not be as uncomfortable to shoot as an Airweight .38, but you're going to be hard-pressed to shoot well with one. Small sights, a small frame, and a double-action-only trigger are not your friends as a novice. By all means, learn to shoot double-action well, but it's going to be discouraging early on.

Now, rarely will I ever just tell someone what the "right" gun for the task is. I will this time, however, but the answer is really two guns.

First, you want a good learning gun, in .22LR. Behold, the Smith and Wesson K-22 Target Masterpiece, otherwise known as the Model 17.

Important for you, it has an excellent trigger, a full-sized frame, proper adjustable sights, and typically a 6" barrel. Price-wise, I spied an excellent example in my local gun shop for $575-ish, which I thought was priced accurately--not a great deal, but not bad, either.

Yes, that's a little pricey. Research prices on the classifieds here, however, and I'm confident that should you ever decide to sell it, you'll recoup your investment. That's the advantage of a used gun over a new model.

Why do you want a 6" K-framed .22LR? Because if you miss, you can't blame it on a J-frame snubby's poor sights, relatively heavy trigger, or tiny grip. As a new shooter, you want good feedback. And .22LR is infinitely cheaper than even bargain .38 Spl ($2-$4 a box for match-grade .22 vs $12-$14 for plinker .38 Spl).

Now, you could use this as an around-the-house defensive revolver? Sure, but .22LR is less than ideal. In a revolver that size, .38 Spl would shoot just as easily as .22LR, while being far more powerful and frankly more reliable. Yes, getting shot with .22LR sucks pretty bad, but there's just no advantage to a K-framed .22.

So you're going to need a defensive handgun as well. What should you get? That's up to you. I have no idea what your local situation is like, what threats you're facing, etc. A 686 would be a stainless, L-framed (same size as a K, but stronger) .357 Magnum. Or you could go with a 627--an N-framed 8-shot .357 Magnum. If you wanted to get really spendy, the PC Pro version comes cut for moonclips, allowing even faster reloads.

Or maybe you'll have sated your revolver lust and want to move on to automatics by that time. Something like a Glock 26 or Sig P365 (both in 9mm) would make an excellent CCW pistol with the size and capacity to be handy as a home defense firearm.

Good luck!

two-bit cowboy · #26 02-14-2019, 11:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by newshooter1a

I have a feeling that after this first trip to shoot I’ll be heading down the rabbit hole.

Oh, I see trouble brewin'.

You're gunna fall in love with the first trigger you pull.

Have a great time!

Bob

lkabug · #27 02-14-2019, 11:50 PM

Welcome from the Commonwealth of Virginia.
And welcome to the rabbit hole.

Old cop · #28 02-15-2019, 09:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 22hipower

Welcome to the forum, lots of information (and opinions) here. I wouldn't recommend a 43C as a first revolver. In my experience the double action trigger pull on these is very heavy and doesn't contribute to accuracy. If you want a 22LR, and can't go wrong with one of those, take a look at the stainless steel 63s; three inch barrel now but earlier ones came with four inch and the -4 with five inch so there are potential choices. Understand that you'll be buying more soon and can easily move up to a 38/357 where there are many, many options. Like potato chips, no one is satisfied with just one. Good luck and enjoy the sport.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

I have to agree w/Jeff here. I have an early Model 63 w/the 4” barrel and a great trigger right out of the box. My wife, who has serious arthritis in her hands, can easily shoot this gun. The J frame .22 models have a very heavy trigger which will be difficult to master.

adwjc · #29 02-15-2019, 01:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old cop

.... The J frame .22 models have a very heavy trigger which will be difficult to master.

This is true, and the 43C will feel worse, since it DAO.

Another thing, stainless J frames (such as the Model 63) have been known to have extraction difficulties when the arm up. Been there, done that.

Like WiseA and few other posters above recommend, the K frame in .22 is a winner and a gun you can enjoy shooting for a long time.

I have Model 18 (4" K frame w/ adj. sights) and I will never give it up.

joe44va · #30 02-15-2019, 02:43 PM

I agree with Hobby Gunsmith above with another comment:
I've known folks who bought a 357 for a first gun, fired 357s in it and it's now in a drawer somewhere never to be seen again. My brother is one. A 22 is a great place to start. I have a 63 x 3" and a 617 x 6" and love them and shoot both and I started shooting 60 years ago. If (when) you move up to a bigger revolver, shoot only 38s until your really comfortable with it. Changing grips can make it more comfortable, more accurate, and fun to shoot. For a first gun a revolver is the way to go. Welcome to the hobby.

KarmannGhia · #31 02-15-2019, 03:05 PM

FIRST: If you want a 22 get a 22. The lower ammo cost equals more time shooting. There is no substitute for (quality) practice.

There are several great options, if you are willing to look and find a new or good condition used double/single action revolver. My personal favorites are (higher cost) S&W 17 or 34, (middle) Ruger SP101 or LCRx, (lower cost) H&R 929 or 999.

I have personally owned all but the LCRx (still on my list to get).

There are others: Charter Arms, Taurus and more, but I have no experience with them.

I don't go to the range without at least one 22 revolver in my bag.

kthom · #32 02-15-2019, 03:27 PM

OP, IMO, it is really, really hard to beat a good Model 10! They are as reliable as an anvil! They are also a pretty good revolver to begin to learn to shoot with. Ammo is a bit more expensive than .22LR, but target wadcutters in that revolver will not be a problem for you to shoot enjoyably. Once your get comfortable doing so, then you can move up the ladder with standard pressure loadings and then up to +P rated ammo. The gun will handle all of these well. And you can experiment with different grips to determine which fits your hands best to allow you to do your best work and shoot the most accurately. A four inch barrel is a great compromise for a shooter. And with the +P for carry ammo after you've shot enough of it to know what to expect, it is adequate for personal protection. I suggest that, beyond the 148 grain target wadcutter loads, stay with any good 158 grain loading in standard pressure while avoiding anything much smaller than about 140 grains for the bullets. The hotter 125 grain stuff seems to be harder on these revolvers than the others, and the others will do the job nicely. The revolver is built to shoot to the sights with the 158 grain loads as well. I say you couldn't do much better than that Model 10 (or one just like it) that you have the opportunity to try out. That's a great starting place, I think! And it ain't a bad finishing place either!

ABPOS · #33 02-15-2019, 03:31 PM

Good luck on your new journey. I'm with most everyone else here. a .22 is a great way to learn. But I'd go with a bigger, heavier one to start with. You will find more pleasure. Snubbies are hard to shoot. Now if you're planning on just shooting at like 3 yards to start with, then a snubby is fine. But if you're at the range with friends and want to hit clay pigeons on the berm at the 25 yard line, a longer barreled heavier barreled gun is the way to go.

And shoot it double action.

Have fun, shoot straight and most of all BE SAFE. I won't assume you don't know anything about safety, so please don't take offense. I like to watch this video regularly to be reminded to be safe with weapons.

Black Knight · #34 02-16-2019, 08:56 AM

When I started out I started with a 38/357 revolver, but it was for a job as an armed security officer. I do agree the .22LR is a great handgun to learn the basics with and target shooting. The .38/357 is a decent defense handgun. If your main purpose is to learn the basics and target shoot the you can not go wrong with a high quality .22LR. If your main purpose is defense then the .38/357 is a good start. In either case seek out a competent instructor and take your time finding the right handgun for your purpose. Most of us have several handguns for various purposes. Most of mine are defensive in nature but I do have a few "fun" guns. That is if you can call 5.5 inch barrel Ruger Vaquero in 44 Magnum fun. The shooting world has many avenues to explore. Enjoy the search for the avenue that suits you.

Wise_A · #35 02-16-2019, 12:14 PM

The one thing I will suggest, upon reflection, is that the economics of shooting for many aren't the same as they are for, say, me. I'm a member of a club, so the expense of shooting comes down to ammunition, time, and gas (about a gallon a trip). If I weren't reloading, that $14 for .38 is rather expensive compared to .22LR. With reloading, my big limiting factor is time.

But most new shooters aren't club members, or don't have access to one. The $10-$12/box difference between .22LR and .38 Spl can be peanuts compared to range fees.

Ditto for time--a lot of people have much heavier work and family commitments than a lot of us here on the forum. Enjoying practice time might mean a lot more to some folks.

In either case, I would then heartily suggest the K-38 (Model 14). Virtually identical to the 17 (K-22), and more than adequate as a home defense gun. I suppose a 686 or 686+ would be almost as good, though (I really am that big a fan of the Target Masterpiece).

I'd also note that I think a proper home defense gun should be concealable, so that you can then carry it, and actually have it on you should you ever need it. Much better than asking your assailant to wait a bit while you rummage around in the master closet for your gun.

newshooter1a · #36 02-19-2019, 08:33 PM

Well made it to the range and shot with a Model 10 side by side with a Glock 19. I was more accurate with the 9mm but I think the biggest issue I had with the revolver was the grip, or lack thereof. The grip was a bit lacking for my hand, thin feeling, and the wood handles didn't give me loads of traction. Possible that I wasn't holding it in the most effective way. Next chance I get I'd like to try one with the rubber grips to see if that makes a big difference. The trigger on it was smooth, but again I don't have anything to compare it to....yet. I suppose the felt recoil on both guns felt similar. Thanks again for all the responses and suggestions. I wish i could try them all! Will be shooting again this coming weekend.

ABPOS · #37 02-20-2019, 03:04 PM

Grips make a huge difference. Even just a tyler T grip will make a big difference over just magnas themselves. Give you a lot more control. I don't have a model 10 but all of my 3 revolvers felt like completely different and better guns once I got grips for them I liked. I'm kind of a hogue guy. I don't like the finger grooves on some models and on some I do. I don't LOVE them on my model 19 but it's waaaaaay better than wood grips, thus far. I tried just magnas on my Model 19 and it was blaaaaaaaaa.