First time buyer recommendation please!

[Pistolgrip Pump]

I am a first time buyer and currently wanting to buy a hand gun. I'm leaning towards revolvers and I was wondering which guns you guys recommend. I'm looking for something that I can possibly carry on my person, so not a hand cannon, but I want something that can pack quite a punch. I would like a dependable, quality gun so if you have anything in mind please let me know!

-Thanks

[Atekhed]

Find a local gun range/store or class that you can rent/try out multiple guns to shoot if possible. Maybe take an NRA basic pistol class to get some ideas or hands-on time with some also.

Revolvers are nice but if you can qualify for a CCW in this state then I would recommend a quality semi-auto pistol instead. Something like a Glock 19/23/26/27, M&P 9/40c/Shield, etc... 9mm or .40 are both good defensive rounds. Modern semi-auto pistols are pretty reliable and dependable with the plus of higher ammo capacity and easier to load if needed versus a revolver.

Once you settle on the gun get a decent holster, mag pouch and belt then take a class to learn how to use your handgun defensively.

Good luck!

[XYZ]

Read this thread about selecting your first handgun:

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=397489

[Fastattack]

A revolver would be a good choice for a first gun. Simple and reliable - always ready.
I love the S&Ws for the smooth trigger.
A 357 is a good choice, it can shoot 38Spl so you have alternatives.
Having said that, I agree with Atkhed about going to a range and test driving some guns, then get what you like.

[HighLander51]

I am a first time buyer and currently wanting to buy a hand gun. I'm leaning towards revolvers and I was wondering which guns you guys recommend. I'm looking for something that I can possibly carry on my person, so not a hand cannon, but I want something that can pack quite a punch. I would like a dependable, quality gun so if you have anything in mind please let me know!

-Thanks

S&W 686 4", then learn how to shoot correctly. Take a local class, google USPSA and IDPA for clubs near you. They always have classes.

[Dead*Reckoned]

Welcome to Calguns! First things first, you have do your research, most likely you are going to be shooting with this gun on the range, and since its your first gun you are going to want to shoot it a lot, ammo prices can be of concern for some people, 9mm is the cheapest round common for self defense. Reading threads here to see what guns are commonly held in high regard vs guns that people buy on impulse. You can ask me questions if you want help. I recommend not getting to eager to buy a gun right now, with time, hopefully you can purchase the right gun for you and have no regrets. Don't ever think you have to stop at one as well, chances are if you buy one, you won't be able to stop

[dbbspider]

357 is a great choice as it shoots 2 calibers and light enough for carry

[baih777]

the best choice is to go to the your local range and see if they rent pistols. try a few. for a revolver .357 is good. that was my first gun and still have it.

[h0use]

rent a few guns and try them to see how you like them

[glockman19]

For a revolver I'd get a S&W 686+ 4"
Semi auto handgun, Glock 19

[mossy]

get a glock 17 or 19. ready to go out of the box and easy to clean.

[cebuvfr]

Welcome aboard! Go to a local range and rent several handguns first then decide which one you like.

[Pistolgrip Pump]

Thank you all for your recommendations! I will start reviewing my choices!

[cannon]

Welcome to Calguns. We've been waiting for you.

First off a revolver is a great choice. Dead reliable and intuitive to shoot. Pull it out, aim it and pull the trigger.

As far as a revolver choice I'd suggest you look at a lighter frame Smith & Wesson in .357 a .357 revolver can also shoot the less expensive .38 which also has less recoil. Cheaper and easier for training and target practice.

If you have a chance also look at a glock 19. glock although about as exciting as a bic lighter has a few advantages over some other semi auto's. Like a revolver it's simple and intuitive. No levers or or controls other than the trigger. Just pull it out, aim it and pull the trigger. And you get more rounds with a faster reload. They are dead reliable too. Also 9mm is very affordable.

If you are in SoCal drop me a PM and I'll set you up to try each one out.

[Travis590A1]

Ruger SP-101 .357 MAG with a 3 inch barrel. Reliable as you can get. Very safe to rock it with all cylinders loaded. Easy to operate. Oh ya and they are freaking tanks! I have lost track of how many times I've dropped mine in the dirt or mud, I've even accidently dropped it into a river on a hiking trip. I just shook it off every time made sure the barrel wasn't obstructed and carried on. 2,000+ rounds with no problems. Ruger SP-101/ End thread.