How to Choose the Right Handgun

Man handling handgun in store

Despite the heated gun ownership debate in the United States, guns are still valuable for self-defense and recreation. However, many people looking to buy firearms don't know what attributes to look for.

Are you unsure where to begin? The experts at Northern Illinois Carry LLC have your back. Let's take an in-depth look at how to choose the right handgun.
 

What Are Your Needs?

Before proceeding with the purchase process, you will need to decide why you want a gun in the first place. There is no wrong answer if it stays within the legal parameters. 

Many people buy guns for self-defense, as previously mentioned. Others buy guns for shooting at the range. And some buy firearms simply to add to their collection. Whatever the case, it is crucial to consider your purpose for purchasing a gun. This will help you choose the right gun, as some guns are more practical to keep at your bedside than others. 


Semi-Automatic vs. Revolver

Next, you must decide whether you want a semi-automatic or revolver handgun. 


Semi-Automatic

Semi-automatics can be fired using gas pressure to load the next cartridge into the chamber. Once the firing mechanism has been cocked, the user can pull the trigger until there is no ammunition in the magazine.

A magazine is a cartridge that fits into the bottom end of a handgun and contains ammunition. The maximum capacity of most handguns is between 6 and 18 rounds.

Semi-automatic handguns are known for their large cartridge capacities, ease of loading, and portability. However, they use slide retraction (cocking firing mechanism), so it takes some hand strength to use them safely and, as a result, may not be appropriate for everyone. In addition, semi-automatic pistols have a limit on the caliber of ammunition they can use; these higher strengths might make it difficult to fire consistently.

 

Revolver

The revolver is the standard handgun in Western movies. It has a chamber that opens at the side for loading, holding five to six bullets depending on the model. The trigger is pulled, and the cylinder rotates to move the next bullet into the barrel.

There are two types of revolvers: single-action and double-action.

Single-action revolvers require that the user cock the hammer before shooting and then release it after each shot. Double-action revolvers require the user to pull a heavy trigger to cock and release their hammer in one motion. Revolvers handle high-caliber ammunition well, making them ideal for home defense. In defense situations, it is best to use a double-action revolver to eliminate the extra step of firing.


Caliber

Caliber refers to the ammunition's size. You might expect that larger bullets do more damage to the target with which they collide. As mentioned previously, ammunition guns limit the strength they can fire. Each handgun works best with a particular caliber. You might have heard the term ".45" before, which refers to a revolver that can hold .45 caliber cartridges.

Keep in mind that the caliber directly affects stopping power and recoil. Therefore, a person with less training will have less recoil. A combination of stopping power and manageable recoil is best for home defense. A gun with too high a caliber can be cumbersome for some people, while a firearm of a lower caliber might not work well in a defensive situation.

Shot placement vs. caliber is an important topic. A properly aimed handgun with a lower caliber will do more than a poorly fired .45 revolver.


Test the Firearm

Before you purchase a handgun, it is imperative to fire it. By not doing so, you may not be able to properly use your firearm in a situation that requires it. Visiting a gun range or taking an Introduction to Handguns class is an excellent idea for anyone looking to purchase a handgun. It's an opportunity to try out different calibers and barrel lengths to find what you love most.


Safety

It is essential to learn gun safety. A firearm, even if not in use, can pose a threat to anyone who is not following the correct behavior. Therefore, whether you have any previous experience handling a firearm, it is always beneficial for anyone to undergo a training or refresher course to learn about using a gun safely.

 

Choose Northern Illinois Carry LLC

USCCA Concealed Carry and Home Defense Course is a 16-hour course and meets the Illinois State Police requirements for the Illinois Concealed Carry Permit. Upon completing the course, students will receive a certificate required when renewing their Illinois Concealed Carry Permit. Visit Northern Illinois Carry LLC online to learn more or call us at 815-501-9421 with any questions.

 

 

Sources

https://northernillinoiscarry.com/course/introtohandguns-mdlsc

https://www.nrafamily.org/content/first-time-handgun-buyers-guide/

https://gununiversity.com/how-to-choose-a-gun/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Location: Northern Illinois Carry LLC

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