Picking out my first firearm

[artkrhymes]

So I wasn't really into the whole gun thing. Used to wrenching on cars and bikes. But now that I've "matured" a bit I'd like something to protect my loved ones from zombies and other threats. Been shooting here and there, from AKs to M9 to what my brother in law calls this shoulder breaker, "BRUNO". Bought a Springfield XD 40 off a buddy's friend down in SoCal and yes I live up in NorCal. Being new to the scene I am also a newb when it comes to the process of owning a handgun and none of us wanted to travel 600 miles to sign papers. Bummed out of my mind I went to the gun show in Vallejo just to bring mood a couple notches lower. Today, my bro-in-law took me shooting to get the feel of which gun should I really want to pick up. Shot an M9, 357 Magnum, this compact .45, and a Colt 1911. Loved the feel of the M9 in my hand, it felt just right but the sights were a bit awkward and same with the Magnum. The 1911 felt like it didn't fill my hands up very well but the dove tail helped me find the bulls eye best. Also the grouping with the 1911 was under 2", so now I'm set on getting a 1911 which I really didnt want in the first place because it wasn't in my price range. But now I know it's probably the right gun for me, it feels like it and it shows on the target. I'm all about the best bang for the buck I mean who isn't, right? Searched this forum, talked to a couple people, surfed the internet and so far I've narrowed it down to the Sig Sauer 1911 TTT. Now I've heard there is a wait for those? My knowledge is very limited in this forum, I know there are different variations to the 1911 and home a good handful of CalGun users can chime in and point me in the right direction. I live in Vacaville and need help in finding the best gun store in my area to help me out in every which way but left. This forum rocks! Here's to a new pistol!

[Freq18Hz]

First firearm, buy a revolver. Ruger GP100.

-Freq

[RRichie09]

If you want a 1911 for the price of a 92fs/M9 then look at Rock Island Armory. Its not a Colt or a semi-custom pistol but I hear it gets the job done. Everyone here seems to love theirs.

When you are choosing between an M9 and a 1911 you are also choosing between a 9mm and a 45 cal. 9mm ammo is cheaper than 45 ammo which means more bullets to shoot. If you are stretching to get the 1911 then how will you feed her?

I don't know your financial situation, but don't be the guy with the BMW who can't afford the gas. Its not fun.

[CSACANNONEER]

First recreational firearm should a .22lr rifle of some sort.

[artkrhymes]

I've fired a couple revolvers, they feel sketchy to me. A little top heavy and the capacity keeps me away from it, I might need more than 6 shots if it ever comes down to it. I'll look into Rock Island tonight, budget is under 1200 but would gladly go lower if the feel and results show. I've fired a good amount of guns over the past two years, I'm now just venturing out to owning my first and I'd like to do things right the first time around.

[Mana4real]

Find a range that rents guns, go feel some, shoot some, then go from there.

[Tasty]

If you're planning on this being a home defense weapon, I'd stay away from the 9mm. (To me) the only benefit a 9mm pistol offers is a high round count in the mag. This being a state that won't allow more than 10 regardless of caliber, that advantage is lost. I'd stick with the 1911. Just the way my priorities line up... home defense 1st. excess ammo to shoot at the range 2nd

[G60]

If you're planning on this being a home defense weapon, I'd stay away from the 9mm.

I'm sorry, but you are misinformed.

Do not listen to this advice.


Read this post:

http://m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=19887

[jonzer77]

I would recommend getting whatever caliber that you can afford to practice with whether its 45 or 9. Don't let anyone tell you that a 9 won't be sufficient for self defense because they are just crazy. I reload so I mainly shoot 45 but I don't feel any less armed if I were to use my hi power in 9.

[twotap]

The best Home Defense weapon is a shot gun .It is also very reasonable to shoot ,comes with the possibility of many different rounds and blows things up..Best bang for the buck. IMO...BTW I carry a 22lr semi-auto and be assured NO one would want to take 10 of those either .Just ask anyone you know.

[Tasty]

I'm sorry, but you are misinformed.

Do not listen to this advice.


Read this post:
http://m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=19887

Hadn't seen that before. Thanks for the info

[slo5oh]

Ria Tactical for under 500. Just got mine, it's no kimber or Para, but don't think for a second it's not a great gun at a great price. You may find somewhere closer, but I got mine at golden state Tactical.

[Mana4real]

I'm sorry, but you are misinformed.

Do not listen to this advice.


Read this post:
http://m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=19887

Ya, I try to explain that to most and they still don't understand. Or maybe they don't care to understand.

[artkrhymes]

Thanks for the info, I will be renting a 9mm 1911 this week along with XD9, and a 9mm glock. So far the 1911 design shows my best performance on paper. I'll try out a few more pistols, seen a 9mm Px4 for 550, just gotta find a place that rents one out.

[pyromensch]

First firearm, buy a revolver. Ruger GP100.

-Freq

something like this, a revolver, mid frame 357/38, S&W, i prefer over a ruger, (had bad experience with the old ones), 4 inch barrel