I Want to Buy a Gun – Which Gun Should I Buy?

Let us briefly compare semi automatic pistols to revolvers. Each type of handgun has its strengths and weakness , especially for the new shooter.

The revolver is generally considered to be easier to manipulate because there is no manual safety which must be disengaged prior to firing, and reengaged after firing. There is no de cocking lever which must be activated to “un cock” the pistol after firing. There is no slide to operate which can be difficult for some shooters. Checking the condition of a revolver may be easier than checking the condition of a semi automatic.

Some semi automatic pistols fire the first shot by trigger cocking and subsequent shots are fired from a cocked condition. This necessitates learning to control two types of trigger action. In many ways the semi automatic is a bit more complicated to operate correctly and requires more training and more follow up practice to remain proficient.

The semi automatic pistol generally holds more cartridges, is faster to reload and when fired in the single action mode (already cocked) it can be easier to shoot accurately. In a struggle a revolver can be fired with the muzzle pressed into the attacker (not necessarily advised). Under these circumstances a semi automatic pistol will possibly come out of battery, (the slide may become unlocked) momentarily preventing the pistol from firing. Conducting certain training drills can be accomplish more easily with the revolver.

The revolver may use a much wider variety of ammunition than a semi automatic because the semi automatic uses the recoil energy of its cartridge to function. A semi automatic requires full power ammunition in order to function properly. The revolver does not rely on the power of its ammunition in order to function. Therefore you can use a very low recoil, low noise cartridge for initial training in a revolver and then work up the power scale gradually until you can control full power combat loads.

As you can see revolvers and semi automatics each have their strengths and limitations. Research is the key. You can find books and articles about any handgun. You should consider which type of handgun appeals to you and will give you confidence. Guns that you enjoy shooting will encourage you to practice and correct practice will help you to develop the skills necessary to successfully defend yourself.

Frequently, Stacey and I will be approached by someone who asks, “I just bought a ‘Spaceman 2500’ for self defense. What is your opinion of this gun?” Often we must reluctantly reply, “sorry, but we do not think much of the ‘spaceman 2500’. There are a lot of problems with that gun. We wish you had asked us before you acquired it.” Ask before you buy.

A handgun carried for self defense must be reliable and you must have confidence in your ability to use it properly. A quality handgun will last several life times if properly cared for. You are buying a tool which may be in your family for generations. Do not skimp. Do the research. Talk to as many knowledgeable people as you can before making a purchase.

Carefully consider how you intend to use these new tools. Prioritize your requirements and make an intelligent decision based on reason, not emotion. If the appearance of a particular gun appeals to you, this may be a consideration, but should not be the primary consideration, in making your selection. Compromise may lead to purchasing a gun which does nothing well. You will need at least two handguns for self defense.

Here is a brief list of some of the guns that Stacey and I have used during our careers.

Full size:

• S&W K frame revolvers such as the M-66 .357 Magnum with 4″ or 6″ barrel.
• Colt M-1911 .45 ACP
• S&W 4506/4566 .45 ACP
• Glock M-22/23 .40

Compact concealed carry:

• S&W J frame (5 shot .38/.357 Mag) revolvers with 2 ” barrel such as the M-638.
• Ruger LCP .380
• Colt Pony .380 (discontinued)
• S&W M-12 .38 Spec (6 shot) Alloy frame (discontinued).

Note: There are now numerous small .380 and 9 MM pistols available for concealed carry. Many of these are new in the market place.

Additional: At 6’4″ and 220 pounds, when properly attired I would comfortably carry guns from the following list and did so on a daily basis:

• Colt 1911 (Light Weight) Commander .45 ACP
• Glock M-27 .40
• S&W M- 457 .45 ACP
• S&W K frame M-64/65 3″ barrel .38 special/.357 Magnum
• S&W M-3913 9MM

What has worked well for Stacey and I may or may not work well for you. We hope that we have given you a starting point in your quest to find appropriate defensive handguns which will meet your specific needs.

This article is meant only as a general guide for potential gun buyers. The author cannot be responsible or liable for the use or misuse of any information contained in this article. The author suggest that you consult with recognized experts in the field of firearms before selecting a specific firearm and that you seek competent professional training before using any firearm.

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Larry Mudgett is a long time Rangemaster and Instructor at Gunsite. Larry and his wife Stacey also run classes in Utah through their own school, Marksmanship Matters. Larry retired from the LAPD after nearly 35 years where he served as the Chief Firearms Instructor at the LA Police Academy for 13 years and the Chief Firearms Instructor and team member for LAPD SWAT for 14 years. Larry also served as an Infantry Light Weapons Sergeant in the First Air Cavalry in Viet Nam 1967-1968. Larry trained the first USMC Special Operations Training Group at Camp Pendleton and was an adjunct firearms and hostage rescue instructor for the DOE Central Training Academy for 10 years. He currently teaches Rifle, Carbine, Pistol, Double Action Revolver and Single Action Revolver.
Learn more at marksmanshipmatters.com.

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