Posted on 12/07/2014 9:30:46 AM PST by savedbygrace
I have a home defense shotgun, a Maverick 88, next to my bed, but I would like to also have a handgun, for more immediate defense in parts of the house other than my bedroom.
I want to spend as little money as possible for a handgun that will stop an intruder, or at least slow him down so I can get to my shotgun, but will offer the least possibility of firing accidentally. When I add that last part, I'm thinking of those videos we've all seen with a LEO demonstrating firearm safety and the handgun fires inadvertently.
Thank you.
Buy AFTER taking the class. In a good NRA handgun course, you are very likely to shoot a whole lot of different guns. I like the revolver in general, but it can be harder to hit with many of them because the barrel is higher and it kicks up more. I carry a Glock, but that would be a terrible choice for someone who doesn't want a gun to go off in the wrong hands - Glocks go off if you pull the trigger (over-generalization, but one with a lot of basis). Shoot several different guns at the class, think about what you want it to do and what you wan to pay, and then decide.
The best gun is one you will have with you when you need it. The best is one you can hit with when you have it and need it. The best is one that stops the threat when you need it and hit with it. For my dad, the best gun is a .22 pistol, since he can no longer handle the kick of anything bigger. For me, a 9mm or .45 ACP is just fine still. I like semiautomatic, but I shoot one daily. Revolvers are nice because they are very simple, just make sure you know how to use the safety (both putting it on and taking it off) if that is one of your concerns.
38 revolver will be fine. I hate cleaning semi-autos. A real pain.
A number of retired Leos carry a 38 with wadcutter rounds. Very bad news for the guy on the other end of your heater.
Look! A baby Judge! They’re so cute when they’re young!
I really like my full-grown Daddy Judge.
Ditto on getting a revolver. Far easier to use. I found the lightweight revolvers had a greater recoil than the heavier ones. If you want a semi-auto, consider the Smith and Wesson Shield. I found it comfortable; it had an external safety; and the price is good. Whatever you decide, please get quality instruction and practice.
Very well thought out post. thank you.
You’re welcome. I forgot - but fortunately someone else mentioned in another post - learn to clean and maintain your weapons. As the saying goes, if you need them, you’ll need them badly. Not a time you want a malfunction. So learn proper dis-assembly and reassembly, cleaning and lubricating.
Finally, someone who gets it!
I want to thank everyone who replied in this thread. you’ve given me a lot to consider. I will be buying something, that’s for sure.
YW
Echo that. In every single case, that is a failure of training, not a failure of or issue with a particular firearm.
In general, don’t listen to anyone on this board recommending a gun or caliber.
Pistols, like all firearms, are tools to a task AND there are personal considerations to take into account.
First, take a course like Basic Pistol from the NRA to learn what you need to consider. The types of pistols have have their own pluses and minuses. Then the pistols within each group has their own pluses and minuses. Then there are pluses and minuses on those pistols by caliber. This all has to be consistent with you personally and your intended use.
This message brought to you by the good people at MJT Firearms Training. You can find further information on their Facebook page.
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I'm not sure how I could disagree with this any more than I do. To avoid knowing if a shell is chambered always carry chambered, always be chambered if loaded. To avoid the possibility of an accidental firing like cops are apt to do, carry double action only, who needs a hair trigger when you are nervous anyway.
My rule number 1 when looking for a carry gun is getting one you will carry ALL THE TIME.
While I love most 45’s they are big bully's that will stop most anything they hit, but, they are also big and unwieldy, so big you will not likely carry it all the time.
You don't need a professional to train you past the basics, just go shoot and shoot often until you are good at it and then shoot often some more and keep it up.
Almost any of the brands mentioned here so far will be ok for most situations. I really like Keltec because they have a clip that will allow you to carry inside your pants at your belt, no holster needed. You simply blouse your shirt up a little to cover the hilt and your completely concealed. Keltec also has a repair policy that is outstanding, I have used it. They were quick and did a nice job on my PF-9.
I'm ok with 9mm, I like 38 special better and revolvers for girls that can't pull the slide. Of course if you always carry chambered you don't have to worry about pulling the slide do you.
The more you practice the more comfortable and accurate you will be if you ever have to use. I reiterate, if you are going to carry carry all the time.
Or, the S&W Model 15 (adjustable sights) in .38 Special is fine. Here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson_Model_15
Self-loaders need some getting used to, but the Makarov in 9.2x18 caliber is fine (8+1). Here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makarov_pistol
Common Makarovs are Russian, Bulgarian, East German, and Chinese.
Excellent post
TY
TY
And what do you do with the revolver on that concern?
Third. Pull the trigger and it will go boom. If you are in danger, very few people are going to be anything less than terrified. Not a good time to also be intimidated by your gun.
Check out the S+W J-frame hammerless .38. Great carry gun as well.
Leave it on an empty chamber, when the trigger is pulled, it advances to a loaded chamber.
The answer is....
“yes”
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