YES, they are a small target especially if they are flat on the table with the small end facing you. The good news is that they are pretty close. After multiple hits, the pins all become different in how they react to a shot. That said, a "square solid hit" by a 38 special, 9mm,40, 44, 45 will "generally" knock it off the table. From MY exp the 45 acp does a very good job. IMO BEST FOR YOU would be whatever YOU are the fastest & most accurate with. A heavy for caliber cast boolit with a flat nose seems to work best in whichever caliber you choose. We shoot with 3 different guns, 22/ center fire revolver/ center fire semi. A 4" L frame is a popular choice, as is the model 10. Just remember the goal is to knock the pins from the table, NOT destroy them. Pins are becoming harder to come by, so destroying them will likely get you DQ'd. BP seems to have a more laid back crowd, there to have fun & less hung up on having expensive latest/greatest gear. I'd recommend for a first time, just use what you have & see how it goes.