Choosing your first gun is not as easy as it seems. There are several factors to consider before making a purchase, and it’s not easy to keep all that in mind, especially if you do not have a previous experience with firearms. So, for all of you first-timers, we’ve decided to write an easy-to-understand guide about the best handguns for beginners.
Introduction
Let’s first discuss a few things which make or do not make your new gun the best fit for you. With customers getting more and more demanding regarding modern handguns’ design, features, and performances, many handgun manufacturers offer features that should help set their products apart from the competition.
So, making an informed decision before buying should be your ultimate goal. However, making the best choice while being cluttered with lots of information is not an easy thing to do. We suggest keeping it simple and considering only the most vital features, which make up roughly 80% of everything that matters the most with any handgun.
So, let’s start from the beginning and see which gun features you should not overlook.
The Most Important Gun Features
(for a beginner to consider)
Size
A full-size pistol is the best recommendation for beginner shooters, and we couldn’t agree more. An around 5-inch barrel handgun will provide you with the best options regarding the:
- Stability: The larger size provides better stability and control, which is helpful for beginners still developing their shooting technique.
- Sight Radius: The longer barrel improves sight radius, making it easier for beginners to aim accurately.
- Magazine Capacity: Full-size handguns typically have larger magazines, reducing the need for frequent reloads during training or defense scenarios.
- Recoil Reduction: The increased size and weight help absorb recoil, resulting in reduced felt recoil and muzzle flip.
- Versatility: Full-size handguns often have accessory rails for customization with lights or lasers.
Caliber
We honestly recommend a 9mm caliber to every novice. It’s probably the best option for beginner shooters due to the:
- Manageable recoil: Compared to larger calibers, the 9mm has moderate recoil, making it easier to control, especially for beginners.
- Availability and affordability of ammunition: The 9mm is widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to other calibers, making it convenient for practice and training.
- Versatility in firearms: The 9mm can be used in various firearm types, giving beginners a wide range of options that suit their preferences.
- Extensive usage and support: The 9mm is widely used by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters, providing beginners with a wealth of information, resources, and training opportunities.
- Effective for self-defense: The 9mm offers adequate stopping power and penetration for personal protection while maintaining a balance between power and recoil, making it suitable for self-defense scenarios.
Sights
A gun with night sights is the best solution here. Night sights are highly beneficial, allowing for enhanced visibility, low-light performance, quick target acquisition, and increased confidence and safety. Extended shooting time is another advantage because you’ll be able to extend your shooting sessions beyond daylight hours.
Action
We recommend a striker-fired or a double-action pistol, as it will be easier to control than a classical single-action trigger. Striker-fired pistols offer consistent trigger pulls and faster follow-up shots, while double-action pistols provide added safety with longer trigger pulls and precise control.
The Best Handguns for Beginners – Our Top Picks
These are the handguns we feel we should recommend as the best choice for beginner shooters. Keep reading and learn more about the Walther, SIG, Glock, and more.
SIG Sauer P320
The SIG Sauer P320 is a semi-auto pistol that’s known for being versatile, reliable, and easy to customize. It came out in 2014 and quickly became a big hit among military, law enforcement, and civilians.
One of the things that make the P320 great is how you can change it up to fit your style. You can swap out different parts like the frame, slide, barrel, and grip module. That means you can make it the way you want it, even changing the size and caliber if you feel like it. The special part that’s got the serial number is the stainless-steel frame, and you can easily put it in different grip modules to get the perfect fit.
The P320 has a striker-fired system, which means the trigger pull is consistent and smooth. It’s got safety features to make sure you don’t accidentally fire it when you don’t mean to. The trigger is super crisp and has a short reset, so you can shoot accurately and fast, and get back on target in no time.
You won’t run out of bullets with the P320 either. The standard magazine holds 17 rounds for the 9mm version, which is pretty impressive. And if you want even more rounds, there are higher-capacity magazines available for certain models. It’s also great for both right-handed and left-handed folks, with ambidextrous controls like the slide catch lever and magazine release.
SIG Sauer P320
When it comes to accuracy, the P320 doesn’t disappoint. It’s got a stainless-steel slide and barrel, which means it’s super durable and performs consistently. The sights are usually really good too, with options for night sights or adjustable sights depending on what you prefer.
All in all, the SIG Sauer P320 is an amazing pistol that offers a ton of options. It’s reliable, easy to customize, and shoots really accurately. Whether you’re using it for self-defense or just having a good time at the range, the P320 is a top choice.
HK VP9
The HK VP9 is a quality semi-auto pistol made by Heckler & Koch, a company known for making top firearms. It came out in 2014 and has quickly become a favorite among shooters who want a gun that performs like a champ and feels great in their hands.
One of the coolest things about the VP9 is how it fits your grip perfectly. You can swap out different backstraps and side panels to customize it just the way you like. And hey, it doesn’t matter if you’re a righty or a lefty, because it’s got controls for everyone.
When it comes to shooting, the VP9 has a trigger that’s smooth as butter. It’s got a light pull and a clean break, so you can shoot accurately and fast. Plus, the trigger reset is super consistent, meaning you can quickly fire off follow-up shots like a pro.
You won’t have to worry about running out of bullets with the VP9. It usually comes with magazines that hold 15 rounds of 9mm ammo, which is pretty sweet. And the gun’s design helps you handle the recoil like a boss, so you stay on target even when shooting fast and furious.
Heckler & Koch – HK VP9
Accuracy is a big deal with the VP9. It’s got a top-notch barrel that’s made with fancy hammer forging, so you know it’s gonna shoot straight. The sights are awesome too, with options for night sights or whatever floats your boat.
The VP9 is tough as nails too. It’s built with a sturdy polymer frame and a steel slide, so it can take a beating and still keep ticking.
All in all, if you opt for the HK VP9 you won’t end up disappointed. It’s got the performance, the comfort, and the style to make any shooter happy. Whether you’re a gun enthusiast, want a reliable self-defense weapon, or need a trusty sidearm for work, the VP9 is a top choice.
Walther PDP
The Walther PDP 9 is a semi-automatic pistol in 9mm. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality firearm. The gun is easy to use, even for people inexperienced with guns.
One of the best things about the Walther PDP 9 is its modular design that allows for easy customization. Whether you’re looking for a longer barrel, a different grip, or a different sight, you can easily swap out parts to adjust the gun to you.
The PDP 9 also features great ergonomics and an adjustable grip. It features three different backstraps and four different side panels, allowing the shooter to adjust the grip to fit their hand size and shape. It will fit comfortably in your hand and is easy to control, even when firing rapidly.
Walther PDP
The pistol is made from a polymer frame and a steel slide, with an overall length of 7.5 inches and a weight of 24 ounces. It has a cold-forged 4-inch barrel for improved accuracy and durability. It also features a Picatinny rail on the dust cover, which allows for the attachment of accessories such as lights or lasers.
The Walther PDP 9 features a pre-cocked striker-fired trigger system that provides a consistent trigger pull and short reset. The trigger pull weight is approximately 5.6 pounds, with a trigger travel of 0.4 inches. The pistol also has an ambidextrous slide stop and magazine release, which makes it suitable for left- and right-handed shooters.
As for the safety features, the PDP 9 has a passive firing pin block and trigger safety. It also has a visual and tactile loaded chamber indicator, which allows the shooter to determine if the pistol is loaded without having to manipulate it.
Glock 17 Gen 5 – Full Size
The Glock 17 Gen 5 is a full-sized, semi-automatic pistol that’s chambered for 9mm Luger cartridges. That makes it a very popular choice for gun enthusiasts.
One of the reasons the Glock 17 Gen 5 is so popular is its reliability. It’s designed to function in a variety of conditions, and it’s known for its durability and long lifespan. It’s also easy to use and maintain, even for people who are new to firearms.
The pistol has a polymer frame and a steel slide, with an overall length of 8.03 inches and a weight of 25.06 ounces. It has a 4.49-inch barrel that’s cold hammer-forged for improved accuracy and durability. The barrel also has a polygonal rifling that enhances bullet velocity and reduces barrel wear.
The Glock 17 Gen 5 has a number of features that make it easy to shoot accurately. It has a low profile, snag-free rear sight, and a high-visibility front sight that’s easy to acquire and track. The pistol also has a pre-cocked striker-fired trigger system that provides a consistent trigger pull and short reset.
Glock 17 Gen 5
One of the key features of the Glock 17 Gen 5 is its modular design. It has a reversible magazine catch that can be easily switched to accommodate left- or right-handed shooters. It also has an interchangeable backstrap system that allows the shooter to adjust the grip to fit their hand size and shape.
The Glock 17 Gen 5 is pretty safe to use as it features a few built-in safety mechanisms. It has a trigger safety that prevents accidental discharges, as well as a firing pin safety and drop safety. It also has a visual and tactile loaded chamber indicator, which allows the shooter to determine if the pistol is loaded without having to check the slide or the magazine.
The Glock 17 Gen 5 is a reliable and versatile handgun ideal for beginners. The combination of durability, accuracy, and ease of use won’t leave you indifferent about this gun.
Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0
The Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 is a modern marvel in the world of handguns, designed to deliver top-notch performance and reliability. With its sleek and ergonomic design, it’s a pleasure to hold and shoot.
Now let’s dive into the technical details. The M&P M2.0 is a semi-automatic pistol that comes in various calibers, including 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. It features a polymer frame, which makes it lightweight and easy to handle. The polymer also provides excellent durability, ensuring the pistol can withstand rigorous use.
The M&P M2.0 boasts a textured grip that feels great in your hand. It provides a firm hold, allowing for improved control and accuracy. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, this pistol’s ergonomics will make you feel like a natural.
One of the standout features of the M&P M2.0 is its enhanced trigger system. The trigger pull is crisp and smooth, with a short reset, enabling rapid follow-up shots. This makes it an ideal choice for competitive shooting or self-defense scenarios where split-second decisions matter.
When it comes to capacity, the M&P M2.0 doesn’t disappoint. It typically comes with a generous magazine capacity, allowing you to fire off multiple rounds before needing to reload. This can be a crucial advantage in high-stress situations where every second counts.
Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0
Another notable feature of the M&P M2.0 is its improved sights. The pistol comes equipped with high-visibility, three-dot sights that make target acquisition quick and effortless. Whether you’re shooting in bright daylight or low-light conditions, these sights will ensure you stay on target.
Smith & Wesson didn’t skimp on safety either. The M&P M2.0 includes a variety of safety mechanisms, such as a striker-fired action with a passive trigger safety and an optional manual thumb safety. These safety features give you peace of mind, knowing that your firearm won’t accidentally discharge.
Cleaning and maintaining the M&P M2.0 is a breeze. The pistol features a takedown lever that allows for easy field stripping, making it convenient to clean and lubricate the firearm. This ensures that your M2.0 stays in peak operating condition, ready for action whenever you need it.
The Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 is a powerhouse pistol that combines style, performance, and reliability. It’s a versatile firearm suitable for a range of applications, from personal defense to competitive shooting. So, if you’re in the market for a top-tier handgun, the M&P M2.0 should definitely be on your radar.
Final Words
We hope we have helped you to get a clear picture of what you should look for when you’re thinking about purchasing your first handgun. We have presented you with a couple of great models here. You won’t be mistaken if you opt for any of them. However, always remember the basic principles we went through in the introduction, and we’re sure you won’t have trouble finding your first handgun.
