If a friend asked us what handgun to buy first, we wouldn’t start with a brand. We’d ask what it’s for, then put a few in their hand.
Start with what it’s for
A gun for the nightstand, one you carry every day and one for fun at the range can be three different guns. For home defense, a full-size pistol is easier to shoot well. For carry, you want something smaller and lighter that you’ll actually wear. For the range, pick whatever you enjoy enough to practice with.
Size
- Full size: the longest grip and barrel and the softest recoil. Easiest to shoot accurately, hardest to hide.
- Compact: the middle ground, and a common first pick for people who want one gun for home and carry.
- Subcompact and micro: easy to carry, but snappier to shoot and harder to learn on.
Caliber
For most first-time buyers, 9mm is the easy answer. The ammo is easy to find and doesn’t cost much, the recoil is manageable, and almost every maker offers it. Bigger calibers aren’t wrong, but they cost more to practice with, and practice is what makes you good.
Pistol or revolver?
Pistols hold more rounds and carry flatter. Revolvers are simple to run and don’t mind sitting in a drawer for months. Neither one is the “beginner” gun, so hold both before you decide.
How it fits your hand
A gun that fits you points naturally. Can you reach the trigger without shifting your grip? Can you work the slide and reach the controls? You only find that out by holding it, which is the best reason to shop in person.
Budget for more than the gun
- A holster that covers the trigger guard.
- A safe or lockbox, especially with kids in the house.
- Practice ammo and range time.
- A basic class if you’ve never shot before.
Think about used
A good used handgun from a shop can save real money on your first one, and you still get to hold it, look it over and ask questions. Put what you save toward a holster, a safe and range time.
Texas rules
You have to be 21 to buy a handgun from a dealer. Since 2021, Texas lets most adults 21 and older who can legally own a handgun carry without a license. A License to Carry is still worth having if you travel to other states. Check current law before you carry.
Come hold a few
Stop by the store in Anderson and we’ll put a few in your hand, no pressure. Buying online instead? Have it shipped here and we’ll handle the FFL transfer for $30.