Author Topic: New to handguns (Read 579 times)

txhunter · « **on:** October 09, 2004, 10:50:16 AM »

I am considering the purchase of a handgun for my home. I am experienced with rifles, but consider myself a handgun novice. I have heard that a revolver is a good choice for people that are inexperienced with handguns. I have looked over several, but I am not sure of the qualities of different brands. So far, I like the feel of the Ruger GP100 the best. I had a 4"stainless model that felt real good in my hand. The salesman said it was real sturdy and very accurate with certain loads. Does anyone here own one and have any advice? He also suggested a S&W 66, but it was quite a bit more expensive than the Ruger. Thanks for the input

leverfan · « **Reply #1 on:** October 09, 2004, 11:09:19 AM »

txhunter-

Heck, I don't know if you really need any help. You've already named two of the best double actions on the market. Go ahead and go with that Ruger. You like how it feels, you liked the price, and it's sturdy enough to outlast most owners. Shoot mild .38 Special target loads, like 148 grain wadcutters, until you get comfortable with the gun. After that, work your way up to stouter defense/trail loads. By starting with mild loads, you should avoid developing a flinch. If you have a friend or family member that's safe and experienced with handguns, or if you can afford professional lessons, getting a little help will sure speed up your learning curve as you master the revolver.

unspellable · « **Reply #2 on:** October 10, 2004, 08:41:05 AM »

For a nightstand gun I'd go with the above.

But if you really want to gain familiarity with revolvers, I'd start with a six inch barrel, adjustable sights, and chambered for 22LR. The latter is no man stopper but better for a beginner to learn to shoot with. Recoil is negligable and ammo is about as cheap as you are going to get. A lot of fun for just plinking and some of them are very accurate target guns.

papajohn428 · « **Reply #3 on:** October 10, 2004, 11:17:39 AM »

I have taught a lot of people to shoot, mostly women and kids, and the first thing I tell them is that if their hand doesn't like the feel of a gun, they will not shoot it well. Hence, when I taught a newby, I laid out all the handguns I had available, and let them pick one to learn with. When the hands were happy, the shooter usually did well, some VERY well. It can be very humbling when the novice is shooting better than the teacher! :oops:

One of the great things about the GP-100 (I've had two) is the selection of grips is nearly limitless, since there is no grip "Frame" the stocks have to conform to. A long stud can handle any grip configuration, from skinny little round-butt Pachmayr "Compac" grips to the full-sized target stocks. Let your hand make the decision. Then all you have to do is shoot it!

Be safe first, have fun second.

Papajohn

greenjeans · « **Reply #4 on:** October 12, 2004, 02:52:56 PM »

I have the GP 100 in 3" barrel and couldn't be happier. Reasonable priced and really shoots good. Good groups, for me, even with the short barrel. Don't like the factory grips and have Hogue Monogrip with finger grooves on mine. They work great. Good feel and really help control. You will be happy with the Ruger.