5 Factors To Determine How Much Handgun You Need

When it comes to handguns, one size does not fit all. The right handgun for you will depend on several factors, including your personal preferences, shooting style, and intended use. Here are five key factors to consider when determining how much handgun you need.

Factor 1: Purpose and Intended Use

The first factor to consider is the purpose and intended use of your handgun. Are you looking for a handgun for self-defense, target shooting, or hunting? Different purposes require different types of handguns. For example, a self-defense handgun should be compact and easy to conceal, while a target shooting handgun may prioritize accuracy and recoil control.

Consider the following questions:

• What will you be using the handgun for?
• Where will you be using the handgun (e.g., in a concealed carry setting or at a shooting range)?
• What are the specific requirements for your handgun (e.g., accuracy, reliability, or caliber)?

Types of Handguns for Different Purposes

• Self-defense: Compact pistols with a small frame and easy concealability, such as the Glock 19 or Smith & Wesson M&P Shield.
• Target shooting: Full-size pistols with a long barrel and adjustable sights, such as the Glock 34 or Sig Sauer P226.
• Hunting: Large-caliber revolvers or pistols with a long barrel and high accuracy, such as the Smith & Wesson Model 500 or Desert Eagle 50 AE.

Factor 2: Caliber and Power

The caliber and power of your handgun are critical factors to consider. A larger caliber does not always mean more power, and different calibers have different advantages and disadvantages.

Consider the following questions:

• What is your desired level of stopping power?
• Are you comfortable with the recoil of a larger caliber?
• Do you need a handgun with a specific type of ammunition (e.g., hollow point or FMJ)?

Popular Handgun Calibers

• 9mm: A popular caliber for self-defense and target shooting, known for its low recoil and high accuracy. *.40 S&W: A mid-size caliber with moderate recoil and stopping power, suitable for self-defense and law enforcement. *.45 ACP: A large caliber with high recoil and stopping power, popular for self-defense and hunting.

Factor 3: Size and Weight

The size and weight of your handgun can significantly impact its usability and concealability. A smaller handgun may be easier to conceal, but may also have a smaller magazine capacity and less accuracy.

Consider the following questions:

• How important is concealability to you?
• Are you comfortable with the weight and balance of a larger handgun?
• Do you need a handgun with a specific length or width for a holster or concealed carry setup?

Handgun Sizes and Weights

• Subcompact: Handguns with a short barrel and small frame, weighing around 20-25 ounces (e.g., Glock 42 or Ruger LCP).
• Compact: Handguns with a medium barrel and frame, weighing around 25-30 ounces (e.g., Glock 19 or Smith & Wesson M&P9).
• Full-size: Handguns with a long barrel and large frame, weighing around 30-40 ounces (e.g., Glock 34 or Sig Sauer P226).

Factor 4: Action Type and Ergonomics

The action type and ergonomics of your handgun can impact its usability and accuracy. Different action types, such as striker-fired or double-action only, may suit different shooting styles and preferences.

Consider the following questions:

• What type of action do you prefer (e.g., striker-fired, double-action only, or single-action)?
• How important is trigger pull weight and reset to you?
• Are you comfortable with the grip size and shape of the handgun?

Handgun Action Types

• Striker-fired: Handguns with a striker-fired mechanism, known for their simplicity and reliability (e.g., Glock or Smith & Wesson M&P).
• Double-action only: Handguns with a double-action only mechanism, known for their safety and simplicity (e.g., Sig Sauer P226 or Beretta 92).
• Single-action: Handguns with a single-action mechanism, known for their accuracy and trigger control (e.g., Colt 1911 or Browning Hi-Power).

Factor 5: Price and Value

Finally, the price and value of your handgun are critical factors to consider. A higher price does not always mean a better handgun, and different handguns offer different features and benefits.

Consider the following questions:

• What is your budget for the handgun?
• Are you looking for a handgun with specific features or accessories?
• Do you prioritize reliability, accuracy, or durability in a handgun?

Handgun Price Ranges

• Budget: Handguns under $500, suitable for self-defense and target shooting (e.g., Ruger Security-9 or Taurus G2C).
• Mid-range: Handguns between $500-$1000, offering a balance of features and price (e.g., Glock 19 or Smith & Wesson M&P).
• Premium: Handguns over $1000, offering high-end features and materials (e.g., Sig Sauer P226 or Wilson Combat 1911).

Handgun Image Gallery

What is the best handgun for self-defense?

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The best handgun for self-defense depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, shooting style, and intended use. Popular options include the Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P, and Sig Sauer P226.

What is the difference between a striker-fired and double-action only handgun?

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A striker-fired handgun uses a striker to ignite the primer, while a double-action only handgun uses a hammer to ignite the primer. Striker-fired handguns are known for their simplicity and reliability, while double-action only handguns are known for their safety and simplicity.

What is the best caliber for a handgun?

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The best caliber for a handgun depends on your desired level of stopping power, comfort with recoil, and specific needs (e.g., self-defense or target shooting). Popular calibers include 9mm,.40 S&W, and.45 ACP.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the factors that determine how much handgun you need. Remember to consider your personal preferences, shooting style, and intended use when choosing a handgun.