You may be asking yourself, what is the best handgun for a beginner or maybe you are wondering what is the best handgun for self defense. This article will cover some of the practical considerations when selecting a home defense handgun and will include some of our recommendations on what your best first gun should be.

When it comes to purchasing a handgun for self-defense, it's important for first-time gun buyers to approach the decision with careful consideration. There are many types of handguns so before making any purchases, familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations regarding handgun ownership in your area, including obtaining any necessary licenses or permits and adhering to restrictions on magazine capacity and specific models.

When looking at types of handguns, one of the first considerations will be what is the caliber of the gun. The caliber of a handgun refers to the size of the bullet it uses, and common calibers for self-defense handguns include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. When choosing a caliber, consider factors such as the availability and cost of ammunition, recoil, and stopping power. Choose a firearm that you can handle comfortably and accurately, taking into account grip size, weight, and trigger pull. Many first time shooters will find 9mm to be a great option but it is a good idea to try out different handguns at a shooting range to determine which one you prefer.

Photo courtesy of Sniper Country

A self-defense handgun must be reliable and function properly when needed, so consider purchasing from a reputable manufacturer and reading reviews from other users to gauge the reliability of a particular model. In addition, when searching for a home defense handgun, you will want to consider the magazine capacity. The capacity of a handgun refers to the number of rounds it can hold in the magazine, so consider your specific needs when choosing a capacity. If you plan to carry your handgun for personal defense, consider how easily it can be concealed, taking into account size, weight, and shape. It's important to receive proper training in the use of a handgun for self-defense, including instruction on safety, shooting technique, and legal considerations, so consider taking a beginner's firearms course and seeking additional training from a qualified instructor. Regular cleaning and maintenance is essential for the proper functioning of a handgun, so consider the ease of disassembly and cleaning when choosing a firearm, as well as the availability of replacement parts and accessories. By taking these steps, you can choose a handgun that will provide you with the protection you need in a self-defense situation.

Here's a more detailed list of 8 handguns commonly recommended for beginner home defense, along with some of the notable features and common likes and dislikes:

Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm

• Polymer frame, striker-fired
• Ambidextrous controls, customizable grip
• Accurate and reliable
• Some users complain about the trigger pull

Photos courtesy of Smith & Wesson

Glock 19