I have a S&W 20 ga pump and a Belgian-made Browing 12 ga.
This thread reminds me of a coffee table book I purchased about 2 years ago... greatness:
Nice choice. I have a 1911 and I carry it concealed.
But I want a .357 Model 19 with Pacmeyer grips. A wheel gun is better for concealed daily use.
Both pistols you mentioned are excellent choices. Two words for whichever you buy: RANGE TIME!
I have a Mossberg 500 in 12ga. 8 shot, several barrels. Love mine!
The 1911 is quite a fine weapon.
You may want to start with a revolver, as those tend to jam less. Otherwise you should practice clearing jams under stressful situations.
A smaller caliber (I know, I know)may be a better option if you are wanting to involve the wife, and she is not experienced with guns or a little intimidated by them.
I’m going shooting tomorrow. I have an M-9 Beretta, but my friend has a .22 revolver that he says I would enjoy. Hell, free ammo, can’t say no.
Good luck.
Remember, a .22 that hits does more damage than a 9mm, 357 mag, .45 or .50 that misses. What ever the caliber, practice practice practice.
Congratulations on your first gun.
I have a S&W 20 ga pump and a Belgian-made Browing 12 ga.
This thread reminds me of a coffee table book I purchased about 2 years ago... greatness:
Kimber or Para-USA.
When it comes to a 1911 I’d be more concerned about concealing it than whether it fits your hand. I’m small framed and went with a Keltec 9mm (tiniest on the market at the time). No one knows I’m carrying unless I tell them.
>>>Don't get too wrapped up in the 1911 name game. If your not shooting competition, the PT1911 is a fine choice for a good reliable weapon. The sky's the limit on this platform.
Those guys who pay up to double for the same gun that everyone else is stamping out will poo poo the Taurus, and claim all sorts of reasons.
I've owned 2 PT1911's, one Springfield, a Charles Daly and currently a Kimber. The Springfield was the worst of the bunch. The Kimber is not worth the money paid for what I do with it. The PT1911's were OK (traded them for Glocks).
The major problem with all 1911 is the design requires lots of parts that integrate and have to function together-- none of which are user friendly. Thus a manufacturing specification issue on the parts, the tighter the specs the harder it gets-- 2 pieces out of spec, or the sear not bent correctly, can throw the whole satisfaction scale out the window. Thus most people want their's custom or hand made, cha ching $$$$- then there are no two that are alike, so they really can't recommend a brand.
For the same money buy a Glock 21 or Glock 30: very few parts, loose specs, mass produced, higher mag capacity, lighter weight, different philosophy in function, low percentage of intrinsic problems. And you can slam the slide as much as you want on an empty chamber without fear of damaging it.<<<<<
I meant to ping you to post 11 as well - for your carry gun considerations
Let me know if you want to know why I love this gun and what I did to it when I first got it.
You will be amazed at what I did, as my testing method is an unforgivable sin.
I am totally and completely confident in the performance of this fabulous tool
Additionally, you might want to hear about my testing with the Springfield M1A. I also committed an unpardonable sin but I am confident in the performance of this weapon as well.
Good luck.
“Unfortunately I will have to stop at one handgun....”
LOL! We all said that in the beginning. You’re hooked now. Too late to turn back. Soon you’ll be taking a second job to support your new habit.
Kimbers are beautiful, but a nightmare to break down. One FReeper wisely recommended something more ‘wife friendly’. Good advice. Have you checked out the S&W Bodyguard in .38?
Welcome to the club, my friend.
If you like the look/feel of the 1911, I’d ask that you give the Para LDA line a look. The Carry 9 (9mm), Carry 45, and Companion (both .45acp) are compact 1911-style weapons with a unique, sweet, smooth trigger. I have a Kimber Ultra Carry II with Crimson Trace grips, which I absolutely love, but I’d still recommend checking out the Para line.
Congats on your purchase! I am in the same boat as you were a few months ago. The Mossberg 930 looks like it would be perfect for me or my wife to have at home. Found a local dealer that offers sales, instruction and training classes. We both plan to take the classes because it has been several years since either of us have fired a weapon.
Also looking to purchase a handgun. I’ve been told that revolver’s are the best for beginner’s since they jam less, which could be an issue for a novice (hopefully not for long)! Any suggestions would be welcome!
The problem with all small, light CC guns is that their recoil is very stout; takes the fun out of practicing. Semi-autos require practice; drawing, safety manipulation, trigger finger discipline, jamming drill, proper stance, marksmanship, recoil management, etc. Revolvers require training as well but somewhat less in terms of skill base than a semi-auto. I have fired (and own) an EMP in 9mm and a Kahr in 9mm. The recoil is stout. I mostly practice with a full size 1911 and a full size Glock. As a newbie, I would recommend starting with a good revolver like the Ruger SP101 or a S&W model 60. They are both small enough for carry, although on the heavy side. Practice with mostly 38s with a few wheels of 357 to keep you honest. The biggest advantage of a revolver is that in a true full fear fighting situation, with the adrenalin dump raging in your body, most people with some training, will still be able to fire a revolver. That may not be the case with a semi-auto.
Unless you're a guy with an average-size to larger build, concealing a 1911 is going to take a lot of careful selection in your holster choice(s) and wardrobe. If you live in a warmer climate, these may be an especially big consideration in the summer months.
It's an excellent weapon for self defense, but keep in mind that it was designed to be carried on the hip by soldiers in uniform. While it certainly can be carried concealed, a lot of firearms manufacturers have gone through a lot of trouble since 1911 to specifically design weapons that are more optimized for concealed carry...many of these are variations on the 1911A1 design.
Since you're limiting yourself to a single firearm with the primary intent of concealed carry, you'll probably want to do a lot of research and assess your options (and it sounds like you're the type who will do just that).
Good luck in your choice!
AMEN