What would you guys recommend for a first handgun? I'm thinking of getting one sometime in the near future, and I'm open to suggestions as far as caliber, brand, revolver/semi auto, etc. My only requirements would be that it would have to be large enough to fit my big hands comfortably (no super-compacts), and I would prefer that it be at least .357, to be deer-hunting legal here in IA if should I want to try that. My budget is fairly limited.
Top Ad Widget
Collapse
Announcement
Collapse
No announcement yet.
What would you guys recommend for a first handgun? I'm thinking of getting one sometime in the near future, and I'm open to suggestions as far as caliber, brand, revolver/semi auto, etc. My only requirements would be that it would have to be large en
Collapse
X
-
What is "fairly limited" in your mind? Being a first handgun I'd look for one that could be converted to a self-defense/cheap target gun once you purchase your second handgun. Something like a .357 would fit the bill for this reason. I wouldn't use your common over the counter ammo though if there was a chance you would be firing at a deer(buy some buffalo bore ammo or something). I'd steer away from some of the bigger calibers such as a .44 mag. Main reason being that you will most likely want to shoot that first handgun quite a bit, and dropping $1/shot adds up quick. It's amazing how fast you can end up spending more on ammunition than you did on the gun itself(it is a possibility that I know this through a personal experience)! Now when it comes to getting your second handgun I'd suggest a .44 mag.
-
Originally posted by JM View PostWhat is "fairly limited" in your mind? Being a first handgun I'd look for one that could be converted to a self-defense/cheap target gun once you purchase your second handgun. Something like a .357 would fit the bill for this reason. I wouldn't use your common over the counter ammo though if there was a chance you would be firing at a deer(buy some buffalo bore ammo or something). I'd steer away from some of the bigger calibers such as a .44 mag. Main reason being that you will most likely want to shoot that first handgun quite a bit, and dropping $1/shot adds up quick. It's amazing how fast you can end up spending more on ammunition than you did on the gun itself(it is a possibility that I know this through a personal experience)! Now when it comes to getting your second handgun I'd suggest a .44 mag.
Comment
-
.357mag is marginal for deer unless you are hunting from a tree stand and taking 20 to 30 yard shots.
With your budget I would think used. Check Gunbroker.com when you decide on a model.
I would say a revolver for first gun, but you say you like the looks of the 1911's. I have a 1911 clone and it functions fine but I would not bang away with it all day long - not like you could with a Springfield or Colt. Plus, .45ACP is not the best hunting caliber.
I would consider a .44mag in something like a used Taurus or maybe a .45Colt in a Ruger that would fit your needs and budget. Then reload for it to keep cost in line.
Good luck.
Comment
-
IMHO, consider 2: start with a .22 to give you the opportunity to shoot a lot, carry it on the trap and small game hunt. Most of us are not natural hand gunners, lots of practice helps. I like Rugers.
Then save up for a Sig p220 Hunt ready 10mm. It's new for this year so unfortunately not used ones on the market yet. As JHP recommends used is a good viable option. Ruger Super Redhawks in .44 are widely available used in the $600 range. .357 is too light for any big game hunting.
Comment
-
Originally posted by JM View PostWhat is "fairly limited" in your mind? Being a first handgun I'd look for one that could be converted to a self-defense/cheap target gun once you purchase your second handgun. Something like a .357 would fit the bill for this reason. I wouldn't use your common over the counter ammo though if there was a chance you would be firing at a deer(buy some buffalo bore ammo or something). I'd steer away from some of the bigger calibers such as a .44 mag. Main reason being that you will most likely want to shoot that first handgun quite a bit, and dropping $1/shot adds up quick. It's amazing how fast you can end up spending more on ammunition than you did on the gun itself(it is a possibility that I know this through a personal experience)! Now when it comes to getting your second handgun I'd suggest a .44 mag.
Comment
-
Originally posted by JM View PostWhat is "fairly limited" in your mind? Being a first handgun I'd look for one that could be converted to a self-defense/cheap target gun once you purchase your second handgun. Something like a .357 would fit the bill for this reason. I wouldn't use your common over the counter ammo though if there was a chance you would be firing at a deer(buy some buffalo bore ammo or something). I'd steer away from some of the bigger calibers such as a .44 mag. Main reason being that you will most likely want to shoot that first handgun quite a bit, and dropping $1/shot adds up quick. It's amazing how fast you can end up spending more on ammunition than you did on the gun itself(it is a possibility that I know this through a personal experience)! Now when it comes to getting your second handgun I'd suggest a .44 mag.
Comment
-
Originally posted by charlie elk View PostIMHO, consider 2: start with a .22 to give you the opportunity to shoot a lot, carry it on the trap and small game hunt. Most of us are not natural hand gunners, lots of practice helps. I like Rugers.
Then save up for a Sig p220 Hunt ready 10mm. It's new for this year so unfortunately not used ones on the market yet. As JHP recommends used is a good viable option. Ruger Super Redhawks in .44 are widely available used in the $600 range. .357 is too light for any big game hunting.
The .22 as a STARTER seems like good advice...getting used to that should be very helpful when you are introduced to larger calibers...!!
Comment
-
Originally posted by charlie elk View PostIMHO, consider 2: start with a .22 to give you the opportunity to shoot a lot, carry it on the trap and small game hunt. Most of us are not natural hand gunners, lots of practice helps. I like Rugers.
Then save up for a Sig p220 Hunt ready 10mm. It's new for this year so unfortunately not used ones on the market yet. As JHP recommends used is a good viable option. Ruger Super Redhawks in .44 are widely available used in the $600 range. .357 is too light for any big game hunting.
Another option regarding a starter hand gun would be a .38...recoil is minimal...cost should be minimal...ammo is not too expensive...but could NOT be recommended for use on big game...!!
Comment
-
Originally posted by jhjimbo View Post.357mag is marginal for deer unless you are hunting from a tree stand and taking 20 to 30 yard shots.
With your budget I would think used. Check Gunbroker.com when you decide on a model.
I would say a revolver for first gun, but you say you like the looks of the 1911's. I have a 1911 clone and it functions fine but I would not bang away with it all day long - not like you could with a Springfield or Colt. Plus, .45ACP is not the best hunting caliber.
I would consider a .44mag in something like a used Taurus or maybe a .45Colt in a Ruger that would fit your needs and budget. Then reload for it to keep cost in line.
Good luck.
The .44 mags and the Colt .45 would be better handgun choices for big game...but either one will take some getting used to...especially for accurate shooting/hunting...!!
Comment
-
Originally posted by JM View PostWhat is "fairly limited" in your mind? Being a first handgun I'd look for one that could be converted to a self-defense/cheap target gun once you purchase your second handgun. Something like a .357 would fit the bill for this reason. I wouldn't use your common over the counter ammo though if there was a chance you would be firing at a deer(buy some buffalo bore ammo or something). I'd steer away from some of the bigger calibers such as a .44 mag. Main reason being that you will most likely want to shoot that first handgun quite a bit, and dropping $1/shot adds up quick. It's amazing how fast you can end up spending more on ammunition than you did on the gun itself(it is a possibility that I know this through a personal experience)! Now when it comes to getting your second handgun I'd suggest a .44 mag.
Comment
-
Originally posted by charlie elk View PostIMHO, consider 2: start with a .22 to give you the opportunity to shoot a lot, carry it on the trap and small game hunt. Most of us are not natural hand gunners, lots of practice helps. I like Rugers.
Then save up for a Sig p220 Hunt ready 10mm. It's new for this year so unfortunately not used ones on the market yet. As JHP recommends used is a good viable option. Ruger Super Redhawks in .44 are widely available used in the $600 range. .357 is too light for any big game hunting.
Comment
-
Originally posted by jhjimbo View Post.357mag is marginal for deer unless you are hunting from a tree stand and taking 20 to 30 yard shots.
With your budget I would think used. Check Gunbroker.com when you decide on a model.
I would say a revolver for first gun, but you say you like the looks of the 1911's. I have a 1911 clone and it functions fine but I would not bang away with it all day long - not like you could with a Springfield or Colt. Plus, .45ACP is not the best hunting caliber.
I would consider a .44mag in something like a used Taurus or maybe a .45Colt in a Ruger that would fit your needs and budget. Then reload for it to keep cost in line.
Good luck.
Comment
-
Originally posted by JM View PostWhat is "fairly limited" in your mind? Being a first handgun I'd look for one that could be converted to a self-defense/cheap target gun once you purchase your second handgun. Something like a .357 would fit the bill for this reason. I wouldn't use your common over the counter ammo though if there was a chance you would be firing at a deer(buy some buffalo bore ammo or something). I'd steer away from some of the bigger calibers such as a .44 mag. Main reason being that you will most likely want to shoot that first handgun quite a bit, and dropping $1/shot adds up quick. It's amazing how fast you can end up spending more on ammunition than you did on the gun itself(it is a possibility that I know this through a personal experience)! Now when it comes to getting your second handgun I'd suggest a .44 mag.
Comment
-
Originally posted by charlie elk View PostIMHO, consider 2: start with a .22 to give you the opportunity to shoot a lot, carry it on the trap and small game hunt. Most of us are not natural hand gunners, lots of practice helps. I like Rugers.
Then save up for a Sig p220 Hunt ready 10mm. It's new for this year so unfortunately not used ones on the market yet. As JHP recommends used is a good viable option. Ruger Super Redhawks in .44 are widely available used in the $600 range. .357 is too light for any big game hunting.
Comment
Welcome!
Collapse
Welcome to Outdoor Life's Answers section. Here you will find hunting, fishing, and survival tips from the editors of Outdoor Life, as well as recommendations from readers like yourself.
If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ for information on posting and navigating the forums.
And don't forget to check out the latest reviews on guns and outdoor gear on outdoorlife.com.
Right Rail 1 Ad
Collapse
Top Active Users
Collapse
There are no top active users.
Right Rail 2 Ad
Collapse
Latest Topics
Collapse
Right Rail 3 Ad
Collapse
Footer Ad Widget
Collapse
Comment