Choosing the proper handgun for the first-time buyer may prove a little overwhelming due to the availability of many choices. From the Beretta 92fs to the SIG Sauer P226, Glock 17, or 1911, and the Smith & Wesson .357 revolver—what it all boils down to is getting a firearm that feels comfortable in your hand, seems natural, and has a proper balance. Each of these firearms has its different grip angle, thickness, and controls; at the same time, each of them will have different triggers that may change the way you shoot significantly.
Some, like revolvers and Glocks, don’t have conventional safeties at all. The safety on the 1911 is swung off by being pushed down. On the Beretta, it must be pushed upward to release. On the SIG Sauer, it varies. If one intends to shoot a steady diet of 125-grain .357s, the S&W 686 or 586 may be best suited. However, if you want something a bit lighter and faster, then look to either the S&W 19 or 66 for a better choice. And don’t forget some Ruger offerings in their SP, GP, Security Six, or Redhawk.
Where the cost of ammunition is concerned, 9mm and .38 Special are among the cheapest rounds a user can buy, rendering them particularly attractive to those who exercise regularly. As one source articulates, “9mm target ammo tends to be a little cheaper, but still not as cheap as .22, since it is very popular and produced in huge quantities.”
Especially when looking at the Glock 19, it occupies a place out of class for self-defense pistols. It is praised for its simplicity, reliability, and durability. The design of the Glock has been labeled as genius in its simplicity in such a way that field-stripping and maintenance are very easy with minimal tools. The Glock platform has passed many torture tests for its endurance in extreme conditions. This type of reliability made it find a place among the U.S. Special Operations Forces and with multiple other law enforcement agencies across the globe.
Size and weight also matter. The Glock 19, on the other hand, is large enough for duty but small enough for concealed carry. Tipping the scales at a mere 30 ounces, it’s light enough to tote around on your hip all day. It’s very accurate—proven from multiple sources who have documented such from many users and achieved great results far beyond the ranges.
Another factor is the cost. A brand-new Glock 19 sells anywhere from about $500, a price that appears to be holding for this model. That makes for great value considering what a buyer is getting in features and performance. Furthermore, there are plenty of aftermarket accessories and modifications available that improve Glock functionality according to the taste of each user.
Now, some others like CZ, Heckler & Koch, Sig, Walther, Ruger, FN, Beretta, and 1911 models offer different features that best fit each person’s needs. As one commenter wrote, “Glocks have their detractors who bemoan the grip angle, striker system, bad stock sights, finger grooves, aesthetics, disassembly procedures, etc. Glocks are surely not for everyone.”
Ultimately, the choice of a handgun is very personal and thus needs to be based on individual preferences and intended use. Be it for self-defense, target shooting, or duty use, the right handgun feels right in your hand and meets your specific requirements.