Your first handgun...

[hefedehefe]

My first was an XD40. If I could go back, no, let me just say that I recomend everybody's first gun to be an MPA930, MPA10, OR MPA30

[Tack]

It depends

The answer depends on the shooter. A first gun of many or a one time purchase? Each is best for a different person.

A 9 shot single action 22 revolver is best for a youngster who is inclined to throw a lot of lead rather than aim.

A Ruger 2 mk2 or mk3 is a good first auto for a youngster with a bit of trigger discipline.

If the young lady will only buy one SD gun and not train much, then a medium length, small frame 38 revolver is hard to beat.

My brother wants to train and grow into an auto SD pistol. I told him to start with a 22 Buckmark. He needs trigger time. Then he will know what to look for when he goes renting in search of his second gun.

I run new shooters through the lineup from 22 plinkers, target guns, 9mm and 45auto. Lots of the girls like to go back and shoot the 22 target gun onto steel. The bullet splash on new paint shows the hit.

[zman]

My 1st = XD9 Service : relatively cheap entrance fee to this hobby for the gun and ammo.

[luckygunner]

First Handgun

It depends on what the shooter prefers to shoot (semi v revolver) and if they own a HD shotgun/rifle. If they do a .22 LR would be a perfect place to start. If they have no firearms a 9mm would probably be a better choice. While I think it's easier to learn proper firearms techniques with a .22. Being pragmatic I would suggest a 9mm to learn on and have as a HD firearm if needed.

It also depends on the budget of the buyer. That's why there is a market for Hi-Points.

My first handgun was an XD9sc. Any of the 9mm polymers guns from a major manufacturer is fine. Can't go wrong with a CZ75.

As far as 22's I'd probably lean towards the GSG 1911 .22 or a Walther. As much as I love the Ruger MKII & III's I think the cleaning might be a bit much for a new shooter.

[Army GI]

My first handgun was a Colt Single Action Army with a 7.5" bbl in .45 Colt.

Yeah I know, wtf? lol But I loved that gun.

What I would recommend to a new shooter? Well that entirely depends on what the purpose is. Will this gun be used for work or recreation? If it's for work, a Glock 17 (or 19) hands down. If it's for recreation, get whatever your heart desires. Even the mighty 45 Colt was bearable after I started shooting more often. But stay away from 44 Magnum or more powerful calibers. Those are definitely not beginner cartridges and take some skill to learn how to master.

[esartori]

Having shot a variety of guns before my first purchase from .22 to .45, I felt comfortable buying a .45 as my first. I got a springfield 1911 mil-spec operator. I got it used from turners on consignment for a really good deal. Shoots amazing, and I love the look of the full length rail on a 1911 I probably won't sell It ever but if I do I shouldn't have a problem finding someone to buy it. Most people wouldn't recommend a 1911 as a first gun but I loved it and still do

[ruddogg]

Sig P226 .40s&w 12+ years ago, only recently have I bought another gun... LOVE my Sig P226... have shot Glocks, HK, S&W, Berretta, 1911's, wouldn't trade my Sig for any of them.

[norcal.xd]

my first was my 9mm hi point... i love this gun. i carry it around the house in my in the pants holster. i also have a .380 acp hi point to back it up.

[Agent Tikki]

My first time was with an Italian, Beretta 92sf, I'm still in love. Anyone parting with a Nice INOX 92fs?

My first purchase was a Glock 19, still with me today, and still the one I shoot the best with.

[morfeeis]

my first gun that was all mine was a Hi-point C9 and right after that the flood gates where opened, i then picked up 5 other firearms systems in the next 5 months and my 6th will be a RIA 1911 a Ruger P90 or a Glock 21SF (still haven't made up my mind but it will be a .45). The C9 now has pink grips and is the wifes bedside baby.

[five.five-six]

started with a walther P99, if I had it to do over again, it would be a springfield milspec 1911 (not GI)

[Lead-Thrower]

My first handgun was a USP .40. My second will be a 1911. (I only got the first one 2 months ago)

[westcoast362]

I had had many years of shooting before I bought a handgun, so I was well versed in gun safety. I bought a Ruger Blackhawk in .357mag. Next was a Ruger .22 auto, and then a Colt 1911. All of this was in the early 70's.

[RedDawn]

My first handgun was a Sig P220, still lovin it.

But if I had to do it over, I'd probably start off with a Ruger MKII. Ammo's so much cheaper, which means more range time and consequently a better love of fundamentals before going bigger.

[j.primo]

Sig p229 .40s&w rail model. First handgun I bought, and only handgun I have. Then I was introduced to long arms... THE END