Looking to buy a semi-auto handgun in CA

9/7/2003 | Me

[dc27]

I have finally convinced to Mrs. to allow me to buy a gun. I have been to the local gun dealer that rents guns to use in the indoor range. I really like the H&K 45 USP. My purchase would be for protection and going to the range. What do you guys think of the H&K 45?

[dc27]

My two boys are three and seven. What is the best route for teaching the oldest to shoot, an air rifle?

[Sweet_Sunflower29]

Our youngest son was 7 when he got a Henry .22 rifle for Christmas. That way he could see what happened to the targets when they were hit.

[Ford Fairlane]

OK, when I am carrying concealed i carry one of the following, depending on my mood & what i am wearing:

Walther PP .32 in my pocket, a fly holster or in an ankle holster in my boot

Colt Detective Special .38 Special in a larger pocket or my boot

Walther PP Super 9x18 or Sig p239 9X19 if I am wearing a jacket in a belt or shoulder holster

On rare occasions I will also carry my Walther P1 or my HK USP but those are too big to hide eaasily

[Shooter 2.5]

It's like finding a stray dog. The initial price pales in comparison to the care and feeding of the little beast.

If done correctly, you and your whole family can learn to love this new sport.

[Shooter 2.5]

Darn, almost forgot to call the troops.

[Sweet_Sunflower29]

And our daughter was three when we began teaching her firearm safety. She is six now, and although when we go shooting as a family she would rather pick flowers, she is pretty well versed on the "what to do if..." questions.

[VeniVidiVici]

Start them with an air rifle or a .22. Let them learn the basics and worry about noise and blast later. Good for the spouse to learn with too :-)

I second the revolver purchase. A .357 would be good. You can practice with cheap .38s and load-up with the hot stuff for the house.

A S&W 686 .357 is one of the most accurate guns I own.

[dc27]

Thanks. I only have a 1/2 acre of property, so I will need to find an outdoor range nearby.

[Astronaut]

H&K USP is a very fine gun. H&K has a new model called the P2000 that you might want to look at, if you can find one.

Glock and Sig Sauer are also excellent choices. Ultimately, it has to be something you are comfortable shooting.

[glock rocks]

[Sweet_Sunflower29]

Henry Lever Action Youth Model .22

[dc27]

I have a friend at work with property for Boar hunting. I know once I go hunting with him, I'll be hooked for life.

[dc27]

Thanks for the link

[ETCM]

I regularly shoot 1911 and and the barretta M9, but my home gun is the USP. The ergonomics make it an outstanding tactical and carry weapon. Location of mag eject and safety/decocker are perfect for me. Any control can be operated without shifting your grip, not possible on most handguns for me. It can be carried cocked and locked and has an accessory rail for a tac-light.

[itzmygun]

I have a feeling you already have your heart set on this gun and are just looking for someone to tell you you are making the right decision. You are! It's a great gun and it's basically the same gun used by US Navy Seals (so how can you go wrong?).

When I bought my first pistol, I had my heart set on a Beretta 92. The guy at the gun shop tried to steer me to other guns, but then I guess he saw the sparkle in my eye. He gave me some good advice: "If you think you want this gun, buy it, or you will always wonder if you made the right decision."

There are just as many people out there who love their USP as there are people who love their 1911 or Glock. If the USP is making your heart flutter, buy it. You won't be disappointed.

[Willie Green]

Ultimately, it has to be something you are comfortable shooting.

I certainly agree.
And while a .45 certainly has the stopping power for self-defense, it is my personal preference to use a caliber with a little less oomph, simply because it's easier to control.

Have you considered a 9mm or .380?
Something along those lines may be better if you wish to further convert "she-who-must-be-obeyed" and teach her to use it for defense as well. Just one more step in winning her confidence and acceptence before embarking on training the kids.

Just a suggestion.

[FlyVet]

I use an S&W Model 60 Chief's Special. Compact, powerful, and simple to use.

I guess, if you can handle the recoil using .357's. I have an SP-101. I think it's a lot heavier than your gun, but it kicks like a mule with .357's. 10 shots, and my hand hurts, although it's fun. I rarely carry either, but if I do, I put .38 +P's in it. The muzzle blast and recoil of the .357 in that little snubby is just too much for me, for a defense load anyways. Great gravel-pit fun gun, though.

[dc27]

I think you are right. I really like the gun. From the posts, it looks like those who bought one are really pleased with it.

[Sweet_Sunflower29]

Quite welcome.

Have fun, aim steady and safe shooting!

[Batrachian]

I use the steel frame Chief's, not the Airweight, so the weight is pretty close to that of an SP101, but even so, .357 loads are brutal. But you can also use .38 Specials, as you pointed out. Versatility is another reason why I use and recommend revolvers for self-defense carry.