First post, first time buyer

[TannerBoyl]

Being new to pistols, I would agree with the suggestion that you go to a range and rent as many pistols as you can. It'll give you a good feel for what is best fitting for you. Most ranges that I'm aware of will not rent a pistol to a single individual, so plan on bringing a friend along. Be sure to tell the range staff that you're new to shooting and they'll tell you what is expected out of you on the range floor.

For under $500 you could find quite a few nice used pistols. Being that you're new to pistols, you may feel uncomfortable purchasing a used gun. In that case, I would suggest that you look into getting a factory refurbished pistol. SIG has the Certified Pre-Owned series, which is an amazing deal. I've purchased three SIG CPO pistols and they've all been near new.

Most of my pistol purchases have been out-of-state, and I've saved a lot of money buying that way. If you go that route, be aware that the transfers may cost more than you were expecting. Often times, dealers will try to charge you tax on the pistol that you bought. Shop around for a decent dealer, before you actually make an out-of-state purchase.

If you decide on buying a new pistol, I would look at Glock, SIG Pro, Springfield Armory XD and CZ. You should be able to find those pistols in your price range.

Good luck on your search!

[C.G.]

I can give you a very simple generic answer: "Go out and shoot them all and decide for yourself. See what shoots best, what feels best in your hand and select a caliber that you believe is sufficient for your needs."

No one here is going to tell you what to get and what not to get, like you said it's all about preference. GO SHOOT THEM ALLLLL

Best advice so far! While I like my Beretta a lot, I shoot better with my Sig 226. Some, like the Glocks I can't shoot worth a damn because the pistol grip angle is wrong for me (but may be perfect for you).

[IPSICK]

Since it seems like cost is a factor and you're new to firearms, I would suggest a Glock 17 or 34 as well as a Springfield XD Tactical 9mm. The longer barrels and sight radii of these pistols will help with buliding confidence in accuracy and they have a very simple manual of arms. A used CPO SiG is an excellent choice as well. I recommend 9mm because amm is cheap for practice.

[rkt88edmo]

Experience will carry over no matter which gun you buy. Take a class, shoot different guns, consider a .22. There is a good chance your opinion will change after you have more experience.

Otherwise, despite all your research you will have plunked your 500$ down and still be starting with zero experience.

ETA:See also: http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/s...ndgun+beginner

[nosewitdot]

very true...i will look into some classes as well. thanks!

[nosewitdot]

i got to handle a beretta 92 series today...by far my favorite thus far...how does this gun handle durability wise. and what's the difference between the different models...like fs etc? thanks again

[sintax]

Springfiled XD .357sig or Sig p228

That is all I think I could want

[Silverback]

i got to handle a beretta 92 series today...by far my favorite thus far...how does this gun handle durability wise. and what's the difference between the different models...like fs etc? thanks again

The 92 is a very durable gun. The 92FS is their 9MM and is the same as the Military M9. the model 96 is their 40 S&W ver. I have 4 Berettas, two of them are 92s, and like the guns very well. I also have a S&W 1911 and would suggest you not overlook trying the 1911 style. The ergonomics of the gun is different than the 92 and you may like it better although the price will be over $500.00 unless you find a cheaper model somewhere.

If you have settled on an auto then fine but don't overlook wheel guns for a first gun. I shoot Smiths and Rugers for wheel guns and the Ruger is build like a tank. Wheel guns are reliable and if you settle on a 357 Mag it will also shoot the 38 special. It adds just a little varity to the mix.

You have received some very good adivce on making a choice and I can't add anything. Try several and see what you like best.

[nosewitdot]

if i buy from outta state and go through FFL...would i have to contact the FFL dealer before i buy the gun...or will the seller contact them? how does this work? if i do do FFL i will go through Ade's gun shop

[Gnote]

if i buy from outta state and go through FFL...would i have to contact the FFL dealer before i buy the gun...or will the seller contact them? how does this work? if i do do FFL i will go through Ade's gun shop

That is a good question. Your FFL must be on file with the seller. If it is not, you FFL must either send a signed copy of his/her license or FAX a copy to the seller. Take with Ade, he will know what to do.

Once on file with the seller, you can contact the seller, make the arrangements then let Ade know to expect something...

[nosewitdot]

how does the money get exchanged. do i pay the FFL dealer or am i supposed to send it to the seller?

[Gnote]

how does the money get exchanged. do i pay the FFL dealer or am i supposed to send it to the seller?

After you make sure the seller has Ade's on file and is willing to send to Ade's, you buy it from the seller and pay him or her the agreed price including shipping. On Ade's side, you'll pay Ade to do the DROS paperwork and also his fee for receiving the firearm on your behalf.

[Omega13device]

I think it would be a serious mistake to go shoot guns (or buy one) without taking a handgun safety course first. Listing out the safety rules is nice, but there's a lot more to it than the four rules. There's no substitue for having someone there with you, watching to make sure you're doing things right and drilling the rules into your head. There's also a lot of basic information to learn on how cartridges and guns are put together and how they function. This is information you will need to know once you start hitting the range on your own.

[nosewitdot]

yes i plan to hit up one of the classes...but should i take one before i buy a gun or after?

[Jon]

I applaud you for taking the time to ask questions about the process(es).

I second what many have mentioned here already, attend a basic handgun/firearms safety class, go to a local range with knowledgeable people, try as many guns as you can.

Take your time, the gun will be there in a month or two. Take that time (at least) to do what everyone suggests. Yes, many safety rules, in relation to firearms, may 'seem' like common sense. BUT, better to find out if you have that sense in classroom before you purchase.]

I'm sure I speak for most everyone when I say, "Slow down, take a few baby steps and then proceed as planned."