Sticky

[erik_26]

Can we make a sticky for: "I am new here. What gun should I buy?"

I was new to and asked the same question. I have since seen the same question asked several times with various levels of information. Some days guys feel generous and reply with lots of great information. Other days they get the silent treatment.

I think a sticky would be useful to explain the different type of frames, semi vs. wheel, SA vs. DA, all the sizes, brands available, try before you buy, price points, maybe even a poll with the most popular brands so that someone could see what is most popular amongst us calgunners.

This way everyone gets the same consistent information. Plus it will clean up the all "what should I get threads?"

[Black Majik]

I would disagree. Everyone factors in different criteria when they're looking for their first gun, whether it'd be price, caliber, action, and in general preferences.

There isn't a standardized guideline for new shooters to follow when researching their first gun. Everyone is just too different.

[erik_26]

Did you read the OP?

[-hanko]

Did you read the OP?

I read the op.

Sticky's here are ignored.

I must be weird...when I was interested long ago in buying my first handgun I did a lot of independent research on the internet, shot quite a few different guns, and picked one that had enough energy out of the business-end, fit my hand well, was easy to find parts for, and had a decent price.

I would definitely not select any gun based on a poll or recommendations from others that may have zero knowledge of what they write. What you should buy is your decision...you need to do your own due diligence

Try going back and checking the last 10 pages or so of this forum.

If you're exactly like me, you'll be delighted with a real Colt 1911...I'd suggest a Series 70 or earlier.

-hth

-hanko

[THE NEW GUY]

Had I seen a "sticky" asking for info on a 45, I would have read it. (Over and over again)
I am guilty of this thread of being THE NEW GUY.
That being said, the answer that only really matters is rent and shoot what you have narrowed your choice down to, then decide.

I totally get the "fanboy" replies and understand its like asking a Ford guy his take on a Corvette. Then ask a Bowtie guy his thoughts on a Fox Body.

The "sticky" should be:

Title: All the answers on choosing the right handgun

Thread: Things to look for; price (of ammo too), comfort (size, weight), recoil, parts and accessories, customer service, reliability, accuracy, what is it used for (duty, conceal, home defense, plinking, competition, ect.), and appearance. Maybe not in that order.

Final answer: After considering the following and narrowing down your choice, rent them at the local range, test drive them, then choose.



Just my opinion.

[erik_26]

I read the op.

Sticky's here are ignored.

I must be weird...when I was interested long ago in buying my first handgun I did a lot of independent research on the internet, shot quite a few different guns, and picked one that had enough energy out of the business-end, fit my hand well, was easy to find parts for, and had a decent price.

I would definitely not select any gun based on a poll or recommendations from others that may have zero knowledge of what they write. What you should buy is your decision...you need to do your own due diligence

Try going back and checking the last 10 pages or so of this forum.

If you're exactly like me, you'll be delighted with a real Colt 1911...I'd suggest a Series 70 or earlier.

-hth

-hanko

Maybe I didn't convey my vision well enough.

The poll wouldn't be used as what to buy. But rather one could see how popular particular brands are. This provides a little reassurance that you might be looking into a brand that is well accepted. Sometimes people get nervous if they buy something that isn't very commonly used.

I totally agree with due diligent. But it wouldn't hurt to have everything altogether for someone that is new to the hobby. Like I said, sometimes I see people asking about what gun to buy get tons of great information. Then I see other that get the shaft.

This would give everyone the advantage.

What good does it do when 66% say glock, 33% say 1911 and the rest suggest their favorite brand.

I think real meat to chew on would be useful.

Example:

When looking for a pistol you should have in mind the primary use of the weapon (home defense, target shooting, competition shooting, collection piece....)

What style of shooting are you interested in? Cowboy, urban, combat, tactical, tin cans, personal protection.....

If you are into Cowboy style, you will want a wheel gun.

The difference between a SA and DA is....

[THE NEW GUY]

Yup.

[THE NEW GUY]

Reason being, I am not done gun shopping. I would like to own a few...no, alot more.

I would rather read a sticky and find my answer then and there, than to get 20 opinions over a weeks span.