beginner handguns?

[RickM]

Originally posted by tabs
Ruger MarkII in 22LR is my choich for a beginner...very cheap to shoot $1.50 or so for 50 rounds. Cost is in the $200.00 range. Get the Bull Barrel...and go have fun...

In reading this thread again I'll back this advice for a first pistol.

Same model and SAME barrel. You definitely want the BULL barrel. I have the 22 target/tapered barrel and the balance is just not there. Stainless with 5 1/2 or 6 7/8" barrel.

I'd also recommend a speed loader as loading the magazine ismurder on your thumbs.

[Mule]

Colt Python 357. Simple to operate, reliable, accurate, good investment.

[}{arlequin]

Thanks for all the input. As many interesting pieces as are out there, I guess I'll have to pass on them until I gain some experience. I will be definitely going w/ the MK II, maybe even MK III if I feel I want to spoil myself. Although the new model's price is climbing up there (for a .22)

My primary goal is to learn and be fairly accurate and it just won't make any sense to use bigger guns, less accurately. That would be like having a $1000 cue and not being able to make 3 balls in a row.

(The Ruger site sure has many options for MK's....)

[pbs911]

I attended my first handgun safety class last Saturday. Three hours of lecture and an hour of shooting. I have a new respect. I chose to shoot a Sig 9mm.

The power of the 9mm was indescribable. I couldn't imagine a 357 Mag or a 50 caliper.
The power to hold and fire a gun is one of the privileges of being an American.

After some recommendations and lots of reading, I purchased a Walther P99 9mm on Sunday.

[tabs]

Originally posted by Mule
Colt Python 357. Simple to operate, reliable, accurate, good investment.

Agree! Can download and use 38 spl as well....Probably the best revolver right outa the box...

Comparable to anything...next step up is the Korth...www.korthusa.com

[SLO-BOB]

This is a test............

[Joe Bob]

Originally posted by Teutonics
What's the purpose for owning? Target practice, home defense, concealed carry, etc? Or some combination thereof? My recommendation would be to decide how you intend to use it, and then let that decide the model/type.

For a beginner, I would say no larger than a 9mm (work your way up if you want), longer barrel (more accurate, safer because it's easier to know where it's pointed), manual safety (i.e. non-glock), loaded/cocked indicators (new Ruger has some nice features).

Personally I would recommend starting with a .22 and shoot the heck out of it in a controlled environment (1000's of rounds). Cheap and easy to shoot, great way to learn the basics.

I'm sure others will add more detailed recommendations.

Yup....go with a Ruger .22.....accurate enuff to shoot the eye out of rats at the local dump and cheap to boot.

MY Favorite 9mm is my step dad's service piece...Belgian made Browning Hi Power. Old reliable...9mm ammo is cheap compared to .40 and .45.... However for stopping power I like the .40 caliber S&W Sigma.....

The 1911 Colt .45 packs a nice hole in the opponent...but unless a lot of gunsmith work is put into it...the accuracy is less than acceptable over 30-40 yards. It also kicks like a mule.

My one and only revolver is a .357 stainless Smith, Chief's special with 2 inch barrel...nicknamed the "flame thrower"....