As a first-time buyer, it's normal to think twice about what handgun you will buy. It's a big decision. To help you out, we've rounded up the best guns to buy for beginners below.
Best Guns to Buy for Beginners
More folks than ever before are picking up their first firearms, whether it’s because of general social unrest or due to the recent riots.
Whatever the case, newcomers should know that there are such things as ideal guns for beginners and terrible guns for beginners.
We aim to make sure you pick one of the former instead of the latter. A great gun for a first-time buyer will be:
- easy to use
- affordable
- be chambered for accessible ammunition
- not produce a ton of recoil
With all that in mind, let’s take a look at a few choice firearms that are perfect picks for those who have never purchased a gun before.
1. Ruger American Rifle
For rifles, you can’t get much more affordable and easier to use than the Ruger American.
This rifle was first introduced in 2012, and now it comes in multiple different versions and calibers, though we’d recommend picking one chambered for common rounds like .270 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, or .243 Winchester.
Regardless of your choice, you’ll benefit from a free-floating barrel (which adds additional accuracy), an adjustable trigger, and a two-position safety that is mounted on the tang.
This is an accurate rifle that’s perfect for beginning hunters or those looking for a more long-distance self-defense weapon.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm
M&P Shield 9mm photo by Smith & Wesson
This sidearm is one of the best in terms of total self-defense, and it doubles as an option for concealed carrying if you have the appropriate license for your state.
It’s incredibly compact and quite comfortable to use, which also makes it a good choice for those with smaller palms, like women.
It doesn’t feature a very complex design or tons of bells and whistles, but it can carry up to 17 rounds in the magazine and be fixed with a few accuracy-boosting sights.
Definitely, one of the best handguns to buy for first-time buyers!
3. Sig Sauer P226
Here’s another great sidearm that’s seen action with both the military and law enforcement personnel.
It comes with a 15 round magazine by default and is chambered for 9 mm ammunition: ideal for self-defense.
It’s a particularly good gun to “grow into” since it is a little more complex than the above pistol, featuring numerous controls and more in-depth options for maintenance once you strip it down.
While total beginners might find it a little overwhelming, those dedicated to learning how to become expert shooters will find a lot to like as they gain experience.
4. Glock 19 Gen 4
Glock is one of the best handgun manufacturers in the world for a good reason.
These guns are some of the most durable on the market, and this particular pistol works well as an open or concealed carry pistol with an impressively thin 15 round magazine.
It also features removable back straps on the grip, so you can tailor the weapon to fit your palm-size or customize it as you become more comfortable with the weapon.
This is also a particularly easy gun to perform maintenance on since finding spare or replacement parts for the weapon will be a breeze no matter where you look.
5. Remington 870 Express
Model 870 Express photo by Remington
This pump-action shotgun is a great beginner weapon for those looking to get into shooting some game for the first time.
It comes with a well-machined receiver and variations of 12, 20, and .410-gauge.
A matte-black finish reduces the likelihood of it glaring in the sun, and it comes with a fantastic barrel that can reach up to 26 or 28 inches.
The non-binding action is incredibly smooth, and it comes with a single bead sight for added accuracy.
You can’t go wrong showing a new hunter the ropes with this capable shotgun.
What Are You Using It For?
One of the most important questions to ask is what are you going to use your handgun for.
Are you using it for self-defense? Or do you plan to take it hunting with you some time?
Consider the purpose of your handgun and also keep in mind the budget you have.
Don't forget to make sure that the gun is comfortable on your hands, too!
Which of these guns in our best guns to buy for beginners do you like the most and why? Let us know in the comments section!
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Disclaimer: All content on this site is for informational purposes only. Please read our full disclaimer here.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on October 09, 2020, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
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