How to get started with handguns?

[Mr.CRC]

Hi:

I'm interested in guns for target shooting and personal defense. I have tended to be attracted to rifles through the years, and somewhat intimidated by handguns. I guess it's the feeling that the muzzle is too close to me. Even evil black rifles don't intimidate me. Oh, I think the legal hassle and paranoia of being "registered" that some day they'll be smashing down my door to confiscate my guns (like New Orleans) also makes me avoid handguns.

But there's one kind of handgun I like quite a bit, that's Ruger target pistols. I just think they look really cool, and they are more in line with what I really like about guns, which is shooting targets and plinking. I don't like violence or the thought of killing much, so I don't hunt. I would use a gun to defend my family or myself though, but I certainly don't hope for the need to arise.

I've also begun to reach the conclusion that lawfully owning guns is a form of peaceful political activism. A right that is not exercised is likely to be lost. I think this right needs some more exercise!

Would it be best to start with the kind of gun that I feel most comfortable with, such as the target pistol, even though it's certainly not a great choice for SD/HD? (I'm planning to get a shotgun and perhaps an EBR for SHTF, HD anyway).

One argument against this plan is that since it isn't a good defensive gun, I would be putting my time into the wrong direction. I don't have much time.

Oh well, thanks for reading and responses!

[locosway]

It's best to buddy up with a gun owner so they can show you proper safety and shooting techniques. Then, you should rent as many guns as you can afford until you find one that fits your hand and shoots the way you like.

Once you do that, you can think about maybe changing up calibers or features to get the desired SD/HD gun you want.

EDIT: Why do you feel a handgun is not good for defense? For a home, I prefer a handgun myself, although a shotgun can and is more practical for a lot of situations.

[M47_Dragon]

Starting out with a .22 target pistol is actually considered a very good idea. Great way to hammer out the basics, so when you move up to a more "acceptable" HD caliber, you will be ahead of the game.

Try some guns before buying... but I think the Ruger .22s are great.

[happy_gunner]

I think the first thing you should do is to take some lessons at your local range. You will learn safe firearm handling, technique, and some etiquette. As far as first handgun, after the lessons, go to the range and rent different firearm of different make and caliber. That should help alot

[mcsoupman]

These are great suggestions. Renting is good. Finding a couple of friends that will let you shoot for free is better!

[RolinThundr]

Ruger .22s and Sig Mosquitos are relatively inexpensive- it wouldn't be going in the wrong direction to start out with one and buying a better HD caliber later. The wrong direction would be to start with something you're not comfortable with. Of course, you could stick to renting .22s until you are comfortable moving up to renting other calibers, then buy. What part of CA are you in?

[OCya]

these guys are giving great advice especially for safety. i watched some young girl racking the slide on a handgun while her finger was on the trigger and pointing all over the place. i'm not a veteran but man oh man i was really watching that person.

[Stork]

The Ruger Target model is a fine little gun. I got to shoot one a month or so ago and was hitting 4 in trees at 30 yrds no problem and my cousin, who owns the little thing, was hitting targets out to 50yds. I sure was impressed by the accuracy of it. Buy a .22 first, learn the basics, and then step it up. In the end you'll be further ahead.

[for2nato]

your location says prk. dude if you live in fresno you can come with me to the range. i have a few different style handguns you can try out. in different calibers too.

[tigerhui]

Starting out with a .22 target pistol is actually considered a very good idea. Great way to hammer out the basics, so when you move up to a more "acceptable" HD caliber, you will be ahead of the game.

Try some guns before buying... but I think the Ruger .22s are great.

+1 on the .22. It's a great way to practice and develop familiarity. Plus, it is cheap to shoot. I've had really good experience with Ruger 22's. They run well out of the box and are not very finicky on the type of ammo run through it.

[stix213]

I think the first thing you should do is to take some lessons at your local range. You will learn safe firearm handling, technique, and some etiquette. As far as first handgun, after the lessons, go to the range and rent different firearm of different make and caliber. That should help alot

What he said

[Greg-Dawg]

Take a class, get a range membership and buy it.

[Mr.CRC]

It's best to buddy up with a gun owner so they can show you proper safety and shooting techniques. Then, you should rent as many guns as you can afford until you find one that fits your hand and shoots the way you like.
Once you do that, you can think about maybe changing up calibers or features to get the desired SD/HD gun you want.
EDIT: Why do you feel a handgun is not good for defense? For a home, I prefer a handgun myself, although a shotgun can and is more practical for a lot of situations.

Yeah, I can find out if there are ranges close that rent. The one in Livermore which is closest doesn't.

Oh, I only meant a .22 target pistol isn't the greatest for SD/HD.

[Vacaville]

My 1st handgun was a Ruger Mark II 22/45 Target .22lr. Still have it and never regretted getting it.

[locosway]

Yeah, I can find out if there are ranges close that rent. The one in Livermore which is closest doesn't.

Oh, I only meant a .22 target pistol isn't the greatest for SD/HD.

A good deal of people have been killed by .22's. Not to mention they are a nasty round to get hit by. Personally, shoot me with a 9mm over a .22.