Newbie: handgun questions...

StylinMike

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Edmonton
Sorry if any of this has been answered before and please dont attack me about the search button ( i didnt know what to search for ). When it comes to handguns im a complete newb, I basically know nothing, but they definitely strike my interest. What does it take it Canada to own a handgun? What are the most common types of guns that people are using. Is 9mm the way to go for a newb to handguns? I want something that I can use at the local firing range. Where is a good place online (canadian) to look at used guns?
 
BBq_Woa! said:
a: Restricted PAL
b: used guns are right here
c: sensibility
d: not being a moron
e: asking questions ALL the time (im glad you've done this)

f: (most important of all) MONEY! It takes copious amounts of CA$H, or a Platinum VISA card. :evil:
 
Griffoneur said:
f: (most important of all) MONEY! It takes copious amounts of CA$H, or a Platinum VISA card. :evil:

it absolutely does not.

start off with a cheap gun. a used Norinco, or CZ, etc..

go to wolfbullets.com, buy a large amount of ammo for that used gun for very little money. you're looking at a few small hundred dollars for what could be many many seasons of shooting.
 
Take your restricted PAL course and apply for your license. At the course they will go over several differnt hand gun types and likely be able to handle several different makes / models. Taking the course is probably the best first step for a newbie.
 
If you state where you live, you will probably find someone that is willing to let you shoot thier guns so you can experience different makes and calibers.

If you live in Calgary, PM me and you can shoot mine. :wave:
 
Awesome tips guys. I will start by going to the Wild West Gun Range in West Edmonton Mall and trying some guns, then taking my non restricted course, then later ill get my restricted. Ive been on other car forums, etc. and I must say you guys are the most supportive group I have ever found, rather than just taking me for some unknowing punk. Thanks for all the info!

*also, im in edmonton*
 
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Once you're licensed & ready to go maybe consider a .22 for your first handgun. Lots of fun & cheap to shoot. I'd recommend a nice used Ruger MkII 5.5" bull barrel or something similar for the first one.
 
You can take ur non-restricted and restricted 'all-in-one'
I'm not sure what the allteration in price would be, but
both courses can be done at the same time.
Two birds, with one. . . well you know.
 
StylinMike said:
Awesome tips guys. I will start by going to the Wild West Gun Range in West Edmonton Mall and trying some guns, then taking my non restricted course, then later ill get my restricted.

This is a great way to start. I would suggest heading over to the Phoenix (phoenixrange.com) range to try your hand at shooting. If handguns strike your fancy this is the place for you. You may also want to contact the Alberta Hunter Education Instructors Association (aheia.com) for info on getting your PAL/RPAL courses.

Oh and start saving money for your new hobby today! :D
 
Mike, Phoenix may be a better choice, since they can sign you up for a restricted/non restricted course there.
My g/f and i first shot at Wild West, it was fine too......
But then we went to Phoenix because we found out you can book a course at the range.
Rgds, Rob
 
BBq_Woa! said:
it absolutely does not.

start off with a cheap gun. a used Norinco, or CZ, etc..

go to wolfbullets.com, buy a large amount of ammo for that used gun for very little money. you're looking at a few small hundred dollars for what could be many many seasons of shooting.

Handguns are like peanuts... can you eat just ONE?
Guns are a disease. You start with one... an affordable plinker... then comes a second, then a third... then you have to build a gun room in the basement. Then you need a reloading press, then a progressive press cause you need mucho more bullets. It never stops. It eats up all your spare cash.
What spare cash? I don't have anymore spare cash. I buy more guns!

It is much cheaper than having a mistress tho... well maybe not cheaper but at least safer. Your wife won't leave you if she finds you caressing another gun.

Oh, yes, guns are very expensive! ;)

BTW, please don't use "cheap" and "Norinco" in the same phrase. Norinco's are "inexpensive" works of art. I have an NP-40 and it shoots very well. Its a lot of gun, for very little money. :D
 
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WithoutWarning said:
You can take ur non-restricted and restricted 'all-in-one'
I'm not sure what the allteration in price would be, but
both courses can be done at the same time.
Two birds, with one. . . well you know.
Definately go the 'all-in-one' route when you take your test like WithoutWarning suggested. Apart from the few extra storage and transportation laws tossed in for restricteds, the test's will be identical. A gun is a gun. Assume it's loaded, Control the muzzle, and keep your booger hook off of the Trigger. Not a whole lot more to it and with a restricted license, it keeps the government from dividing and conquering us.

While you're stuck waiting for the RCMP to interview all of your references - take in some bottles for recycling and use the proceeds ($45) to join the CSSA so we can win back our rights.
 
So after I have my CFRSC course done, do I then need to apply for my PAL? I see the CFRSC from phoenix is 140 bucks, how much is the PAL application and what is needed?
 
You need to take the exam from a certified tester. I believe you need to bring in two pieces of identification when you go to write the test. When you pass, they will give you a copy of your test results along with the PAL application form.

The application form will ask some invasive questions, require you to submit a photo, and have some references sign the application as well. You then mail it away and wait forever (28 days before they even look at it!).
 
StylinMike said:
Is the S&W M&P a decent starter? What can i expect to pay for one used?

Yes they are decent. You can pick one up new for $650 - $750 depending where you buy. Not many used around so far as they have only been out for a short time and the buyers tend to like them. I saw one used for $650 a while back in the equipment exchange, so basically you would save the GST.
 
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