1st handgun purchase

[kimporter]

my niece and her husband are considering buying a handgun for home defense and asked my advice on what to buy,now i like my revolvers so im leaning toward a nice 357,(mod 19)trouble is they are both newbys to shooting and dont have lots o spare funds to spend,so my question is what would be the best for them to learn on and keep,

 

[smokindog]

Take them to a range that has "loaners". Many ranges around here allow you to try multiple firearms for one cost. The only right answer is the one they are comfortable with.

 

[M1Lover]

If this is truly their first handgun, they need to invest in some basic training on safety and handling of this firearm prior to a purchase. They also need to have a come to Jeezus meeting with themselves as to whether they are capable of destroying a human life in a -most likely- very grisly manner. This who are shot do not die as on TV, with a simple sigh. They will more than likely writhe on the ground wretching and screaming for their mothers as their life drains from every orifice in their body. This couple needs to think seriously about that BEFORE they buy a handgun and then consider themselves "safe".
In my state, Arizona, we have several private facilities where one can get an amazing firearms education, a bargain for the price. I suggest you look around locally for that type of training. If this couple is smart, they will get the training prior to a handgun purchase. The type, caliber and model of the handgun they choose is entirely secondary to the proper skills and mindset that comes from education and experience. Good luck. H

 

[BigBill]

Go with a cheap H&R 22lr revolver to break them into shooting first.

Finding an affordable 357 revolver maybe tough.

 

[paplinker]

A basic firearms class is a great idea if they are not familiar with firearms. They would get to handle a few different kinds of revolvers in a non stressful environment.
Could make a great Christmas present.

Also learning state laws is something some newbees tend to overlook.

That being said a Model 19 was my first home defense gun for my cabin. Versatility and some weight to it.

 

[Faulkner]

Something they'll actually learn to shoot. I'd recommend a Ruger SR22. It's reliable, plenty accurate, simple to clean, and easy to shoot.

If you get a newbie couple a 357 they'll have a nice defense gun they are unlikely to learn to use.

 

[M1Lover]

A basic firearms class is a great idea if they are not familiar with firearms. They would get to handle a few different kinds of revolvers in a non stressful environment.
Could make a great Christmas present.

Also learning state laws is something some newbees tend to overlook.

That being said a Model 19 was my first home defense gun for my cabin. Versatility and some weight to it.

I agree on the education and the double action revolver. That said, the ATF requires that the purchaser be the one who actually owns the gun. That makes a christmas present out of the question. Gift certificate maybe? H.

 

[gunnails]

Shotgun? Possibly?

 

[yaktamer]

Have you thought about suggesting an inexpensive pump shotgun? If they are just looking for something for home defense vs. carry, might make more sense.

 

[yaktamer]

Shotgun? Possibly?

Oops, beat me to it.

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

If they do get a .357 start them out on some nice soft .38 Spl target loads. Very important to do this. You go full pressure .357 right out of the gate, it's likely they'll learn to despise shooting.

And really good hearing protection. Muffs and plugs. Whatever you decide on. Newbies, especially women, hate the noise. They'll jump a mile every time they pull the trigger. Just because of the sound.

Muffs and plugs.

 

[paplinker]

I agree on the education and the double action revolver. That said, the ATF requires that the purchaser be the one who actually owns the gun. That makes a christmas present out of the question. Gift certificate maybe? H.

I meant the classes as the gift. I mentioned the gun further down in the post after the present idea.

Buying a first gun with some gun knowledge would really help if affordability is a issue. Saves owning a gun your not comfortable with.

 

[Peter M. Eick]

For home defense with non-shooters? I recommend a nice 12 gauge pump! The sound alone of the action is a strong deterrent.

First gun? 22 Revolver to learn the basics and safety. Cheaper to shoot, good quality, easy to shoot well.

Second gun? 357 Magnum revolver, 4" or longer, stoked with 38 specials. I would recommend an L-frame, but frankly they should go rent some and see what works best for them. Revolvers are just safer to work with new shooters with in my experience.

These are just ideas and my experience. Each case is unique so play it by ear.

 

[yaktamer]

That said, the ATF requires that the purchaser be the one who actually owns the gun. That makes a christmas present out of the question.

Not necessarily:


Giving a Firearm as a Gift? Some Reminders from NSSF | NSSF Blog

 

[Jack Flash]

... trouble is they are both newbys to shooting and dont have lots o spare funds to spend, ...

They will need to have enough time to get minimal training or they would be better off without it.

Neophytes often believe whatever urban legends (or gun shop hot air) they happen to hear.
"You can't miss with a shotgun."
"You don't have to shoot, the criminal will melt with fear at the sight of your gun."
Etc., etc.

Plus, being able to shoot paper targets on a nice day at the range with a friendly coach nearby is much different than waking up out of a deep sleep in a HD situation.

Make sure they know what they are getting in to.

 

[redlevel]

They will need to have enough time to get minimal training or they would be better off without it.

Neophytes often believe whatever urban legends (or gun shop hot air) they happen to hear.
"You can't miss with a shotgun."
"You don't have to shoot, the criminal will melt with fear at the sight of your gun."
Etc., etc.

Plus, being able to shoot paper targets on a nice day at the range with a friendly coach nearby is much different than waking up out of a deep sleep in a HD situation.

Make sure they know what they are getting in to.

I assume that "minimal training" would include simply knowing how to load and fire the firearm, whatever kind.

At 3:00AM, when the glass is being broken out by the bad guy, the person who knows no more than how to manipulate the weapon is better off with it than without it.

No doubt, more training would be better, but not everyone has the means or opportunity to get more than the very basics.

By the way, I believe the best handgun for the people described in the OP is a Model 10 S&W. Nothing safer, simpler, or more reliable. Point and pull the trigger.

 

[canoeguy]

A Ruger LCR is a good defensive revolver, DAO, simple to operate, accurate enough for self defense and fun shooting, .38 Special doesn't have a stout recoil. And, not a whole lot of money....

A DAO revolver is a good choice for someone just getting into the handgun game, not much to go wrong with it, much less chance for a malfunction.

 

[Jack Flash]

I assume that "minimal training" would include simply knowing how to load and fire the firearm, whatever kind.

At 3:00AM, when the glass is being broken out by the bad guy, the person who knows no more than how to manipulate the weapon is better off with it than without it.

No doubt, more training would be better, but not everyone has the means or opportunity to get more than the very basics.

By the way, I believe the best handgun for the people described in the OP is a Model 10 S&W. Nothing safer, simpler, or more reliable. Point and pull the trigger.

I think minimal training would also have to include understanding the basic rules of safety and at least some range time. Obviously, the more practice, the better.

I can't agree with the portion of the above quote that I made bold. It's amazing how many people put their finger on the trigger when they first pick up a handgun, then allow the muzzle to sweep the entire room. Obviously this could be very dangerous if you share the bed with a spouse, have children in the house, etc.

I'm not trying to be argumentative, but a baseball bat may be the best choice for those who "don't have time" for a reasonable amount of training and practice. You wouldn't want to share the road with someone who buys a car but doesn't have time to learn how to drive.

 

[e3mrk]

I nice 12 ga.Shotgun is just the ticket for home defense.
There is always the chance You could miss with a Pistol or Revolver,even a experienced Gun Owner could be off due to nerves or being a sleepyhead but a 12 ga. pretty much covers all the Bases and its a bit more intimidating looking at a large Gun than a small one.

 

[HOUSTON RICK]

Just racking the shotgun maybe sufficient ....

 

[Peter M. Eick]

I agree. I think the sound of racking my remington 870 Slug gun has got to be one of the most unnerving sounds if you are possibly facing it on the other end. To me it is the sound of "this just got serious".

 

[ChaosDoc]

Racking a shotgun may have different effects though. The intruder(s) now knows you have a weapon but they may become more violent. More than likely they will run, but they may come more prepared than you think.

 

[jrd1976]

New shooters do not need semi-automatics.

If you have a K-22, that is a good starting point for them to practice and learn.

They should be able to find a used 4" blue, square butt, Model 10 for around $300, depending on how much it has been used of course.
Attach the appropriate grips that will fit their hands.

Wadcutters or 158gr round nose lead for practice.
+P hollowpoints for home defense.

That would be much better than an airweight Smith or Taurus, both of which will have more recoil.

I'd rather see someone shoot a 22 revolver with confidence than shoot any other gun and have reservations.

 

[TX-Dennis]

I will disagree with the majority. I do think a shotgun is good for home defense. I keep a 12 gauge in the closet with the magazine (but not the chamber) loaded.

BUT - maybe they should consider a 9mm semi auto. I think new shooters can handle a pistol if they get a little instruction from a friend or relative. I taught my wife and my son to shoot with a pistol. Both now shoot pretty well. If funds are limited a Taurus PT111 could be just the ticket. They are reliable and inexpensive. The recoil of 9mm is manageable for just about anyone, and they'll have 13 rounds on tap rather than just 5 or 6 in a revolver.

Of course if they have a larger budget a Glock 19 or M&P would be great, too.

 

[Model 19 6"]

If they go with 22 try to find a convertible with 22 mag cylinder.

 

[ordy]

Another vote for a pump shotgun. A Remington 870 loaded with #4 shot would be my preference. If a hand gun is a must then I'd go with a model 10 or equivalent.

 

[Onomea]

And another vote for the Model 10 M&P. Everything you need, and nothing you don't. 38 specal is a good self defense round.

(Now I am partial to the M65 for the additional .357 capability, but I don't think it a requirement for home defense, nor do I think 357 good for newbies.)

 

[M1Lover]

ATF Purchase Form

From this article:

"The ATF recommends that if you want to give someone a new firearm, rather than going to a gun store, buying it on your own and giving it to, say your father, consider instead purchasing a gift certificate from that retailer and giving it to Dad as his present. That way he'll get the exact gun he wants, and there's no question about who is "the actual buyer of the firearm," which is a question any purchaser must certify on the Federal Form 4473 at the time of purchase."

Not necessarily:


Giving a Firearm as a Gift? Some Reminders from NSSF | NSSF Blog

 

[b_san]

Honestly I don't understand why this is so confusing to people. It is completely 100% legal to buy a gun as a gift for anyone, family, friends, your boss/employee, anyone as long as you use your own money and you don't knowingly gift the gun to a prohibited person. Firearms make wonderful gifts, don't let a fear of internet myths keep you from giving them.

The instructions on the 4473 clearly spell this out so no one should ever have any misunderstandings.

Question 11.a. Actual Transferee/Buyer: For purposes of this form, you are
the actual transferee/buyer if you are purchasing the firearm for yourself or otherwise acquiring
the firearm for yourself (e.g., redeeming the firearm from pawn/retrieving it from consignment,
firearm raffle winner). You are also the actual transferee/buyer if you are legitimately
purchasing the firearm as a gift for a third party. ACTUAL TRANSFEREE/BUYER EXAMPLES: Mr.
Smith asks Mr. Jones to purchase a firearm for Mr. Smith. Mr. Smith gives Mr. Jones the money for
the firearm. Mr. Jones is NOT THE ACTUAL TRANS- FEREE/BUYER of the firearm and must answer "NO" to
question 11.a. The licensee may not transfer the firearm to Mr. Jones. However, if Mr. Brown goes
to buy a firearm with his own money to give to Mr. Black as a present, Mr. Brown is the actual
transferee/buyer of the firearm and should answer "YES" to question 11.a. However, you may not
transfer a firearm to any person you know or have reasonable cause to believe is prohibited under
18 U.S.C. § 922(g), , or (x).