First handgun

[Spruce Grouse]

Dear CGNers,

I'm thinking about taking my RPAL I've been into hunting, rifles and shotguns for a few years, and am thinking about venturing into handguns. I've shot .22 revolvers and semis, and Smith and Wesson 38 special and a 45. I like the look of 1911s and like shooting powerful-feeling handguns. I know that .22s are the place to start out, but I want a fun gun. I don't know much about handguns, so please give me lots of advice on what might be best for me? i.e. perhaps a 9mm would still feel powerful enough for me but would be cheaper to shoot? What would be the price difference?

SG

 

[jperos]

I thought handguns were banned in the UK ?

 

[Spruce Grouse]

They are,
I am only here for a few years and I want to get a handgun when I get back to Canada.
I may get one while back home for visits.

 

[Spruce Grouse]

All my guns are living with my cousins, they would be happy to babysit a few more.

 

[m777]

Ruger GP160 .38special is the same $ as 9mm and you can shoot .357 when you need more BANG. I love mine

 

[jperos]

Glock G17 is the way to go. Light, reliable, and not too expensive. You can always get others later, which I'm sure you will because you always " need " more !!

 

[brewmech]

Wheelgun, S&W or a ruger.

 

[BCRider]

If this will be a more for giggles gun that you only use for visits then why stop at the sensible size? Go for a basic but solid reputation 1911 in .45ACP. Shoot it for fun and when you get back get a .22 to actually learn more about handgun shooting along with a 9mm to be able to shoot the cheapest centerfire ammo. The three together will form a nice set of options.

Another option would be a more basic semi in .40S&W. More bang than 9mm but only a bit more expensive but way cheaper than .45ACP.

Or if you like the idea of a wheelgun then I can heartily agree with the suggestions above. .38Spl is a soft but accurate round, .38Spl+P has some nice life to it and .357Mag give your hand a real thumpin' but not so bad that you can't shoot it all day long. On the other hand .44Mag from an N frame 629 tends to beat me up too badly and a cylinder or two is all I can handle.