I suggest to learn to use the normal right hand pistols/rifles because that is what you are most likely going to come across. A lot of pistols come with ambi. safetys and mag releases, so its not that big of a deal the only thing that is hard to use is the slide release, because that is normally not ambi. Im left handed also so I know what your going through.
choosing a pistol
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The 4 most reliable pistols out there are, in this order:
1. Ruger revolvers
2. Glock semi-automatics
3. Ruger semi-automatics
4. Sig Sauer semi-automatics
Any of these 4 guns would serve you well. I would, however, urge you to consider a good .357 magnum Ruger revolver as a first firearm. Ruger revolvers are built to last. The .357 magnum revolvers can shoot either the .357 ammo or the .38 special ammo because they are the same diameter bullets. So that would give you 2 ammo options. Revolvers are not quite as dirt sensitive as semi-automatic pistols are. A revolver is a good, basic firearm that works and works well for the new shooter. Just make sure to avoid the snubnosed revolvers and go with one that has at least a 4 inch barrel.
1. Ruger revolvers
2. Glock semi-automatics
3. Ruger semi-automatics
4. Sig Sauer semi-automatics
Any of these 4 guns would serve you well. I would, however, urge you to consider a good .357 magnum Ruger revolver as a first firearm. Ruger revolvers are built to last. The .357 magnum revolvers can shoot either the .357 ammo or the .38 special ammo because they are the same diameter bullets. So that would give you 2 ammo options. Revolvers are not quite as dirt sensitive as semi-automatic pistols are. A revolver is a good, basic firearm that works and works well for the new shooter. Just make sure to avoid the snubnosed revolvers and go with one that has at least a 4 inch barrel.
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1,229 Posts
I'd recommend a Smith & Wesson Airweight .38 Special revolver. It's a solid, reliable design and inherently easy to use.
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53 Posts
Not all guns are ambidextrious, in fact only a few are fully ambidextrious. Not all Taurs are, just the 800 series.
Bersa makes some ambidextrious 9mm, .40 and .45s also as is the S&W M&P which comes in 9mm, .40 and 45.
As a left, being able to access al the control easily and naturally is a big consideration for me. If you are going to buy a gun, why not buy one that fits you best.
why a 4 inch barrell? it seem semi automatics are easier to use. what about taurus brand?
More choices
If you decide to go with an auto and want something really reliable, H&K should be on your list in addition to the others. They are expensive, but reliable and tack drivers.
I have a P7 ($700) in 9mm that I love (it has a great safety: you squeeze the grip), and an USP Expert ($1250) in 40. They both shoot a lot more accurately than I can. I also have a Smith M&P ($550) in 40 that's really nice.
The 40's are getting really painful to feed, but if I ever have to shoot at somebody, I'd rather have the extra oomph of the 40. Might be a good argument for getting a 22 for practice ($20 for 500) and a 9 or 40 for real.
If you decide to go with an auto and want something really reliable, H&K should be on your list in addition to the others. They are expensive, but reliable and tack drivers.
I have a P7 ($700) in 9mm that I love (it has a great safety: you squeeze the grip), and an USP Expert ($1250) in 40. They both shoot a lot more accurately than I can. I also have a Smith M&P ($550) in 40 that's really nice.
The 40's are getting really painful to feed, but if I ever have to shoot at somebody, I'd rather have the extra oomph of the 40. Might be a good argument for getting a 22 for practice ($20 for 500) and a 9 or 40 for real.
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53 Posts
I have a friend who has a H&K USP. The more he shoots it, the more he says he likes it.
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I'm new to pistols/revolvers, but the following seem to get a lot of good ratings:
Glock 17/19. A lot of people like them. Less parts, easily serviced.
Springfield XD. I've heard a number of people recommend these.
A 1911. Which manufacturer do people prefer?
.357 revolver. Or 45? Which manufacturer?
Sig-Sauer P226 or 229.
If you were getting only one, and wanted something that was multi-purpose (personal defense and practice at the range) which one?
Glock 17/19. A lot of people like them. Less parts, easily serviced.
Springfield XD. I've heard a number of people recommend these.
A 1911. Which manufacturer do people prefer?
.357 revolver. Or 45? Which manufacturer?
Sig-Sauer P226 or 229.
If you were getting only one, and wanted something that was multi-purpose (personal defense and practice at the range) which one?
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20 Posts
Er doc
Hey Doc,
This ain't brain surgery.
#1 Any handgun is better than none.
#2 All hadguns are a trade-off.
#3 There are as many opinions about handguns as ther are people.
#4 Always remember: "SHOT PLACEMENT, MULTIPLE HITS, THEN PENETRATION"
#5 Want to double the effect of any caliber handgun...shoot 'em twice...you're an ER doc...you know that two holes are worse than one.
Hey Doc,
This ain't brain surgery.
#1 Any handgun is better than none.
#2 All hadguns are a trade-off.
#3 There are as many opinions about handguns as ther are people.
#4 Always remember: "SHOT PLACEMENT, MULTIPLE HITS, THEN PENETRATION"
#5 Want to double the effect of any caliber handgun...shoot 'em twice...you're an ER doc...you know that two holes are worse than one.
Get as much info about as many different makes and models as possible! Read as much about the pros and cons of each caliber and weapon you possibly can! Be patient! Join a gun range where you can meet others and learn more... Or, go buy the first one that gets your enterest and roll the dice! We all have learned in one way or another. Just go have fun.....life is short, enjoy it!
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