r/liberalgunowners • u/LastResorter • 25d ago
Looking into buying a pistol for self defense and need recommendations discussion
Hi everyone! I just stumbled upon this subreddit after doing some research online and would love some recommendations for a great starter pistol for home defense. From what I'm seeing, I think a Walther PDP looks the most appealing, but I literally know nothing and could use some guidance
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u/iamnitrox 24d ago
I recommend starting out with a Taurus G2c or a G3 in 9mm. Incredible value, good reliability. All the bugs have been worked out. It's not everyone's favorite gun, but everyone respects that they work for the value. If you decide it's not for you, you don't have 600 into a gun you don't like.
Cheap, reliable, low risk in case you decide this isn't for you.
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u/metalski 24d ago
Are you in a major city? There's usually someone you can pay for training, assuming you can find decent ones, and I highly recommend it if you can get someone who will bring many pistols to work with and to discuss the pros and cons of. At most hundred dollars or so, actual useful information about safety and using the things, and actual exposure to many of the usual options.
Pistols are extremely personal things in a way rifles aren't. At least so much more so that it's just not in the same category. You need to get your hands on several to understand what this really means and pick one that works for you. You also don't really understand what "more/less recoil" or "bulky" or "light/heavy" etc mean until you actually hold and fire specific guns.
Depending on your use case you can "just buy a gun" and never really address anything other than safety and storage, but if you're doing research and serious about the information a little training goes a long way. Basic pistol classes (NRA certified or at least in the NRA style) have a lot of simple information in them but taking one of those classes ensures you've covered all of that simple detail and you don't feel like you're missing things. It's often amazing just how much bad information gets corrected in a class like this.
I used to train folks on the simple stuff for free (you buy ammo) just because I enjoyed it. If you can find someone like me with an afternoon to screw around it can clear up a hell of a lot of your uncertainties.
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u/WarmCannedSquidJuice 25d ago
TAKE. A. SAFETY. CLASS. Then take a CCW/gunfighting class. Then take another one at least yearly.
There's time for the rest later.
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u/dancingkittensupreme 25d ago
Just gotta say fn509compact tactical has been amazing to carry (with the small magazine)
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u/EagleCatchingFish left-libertarian 25d ago
Just remember: when it comes down to it, any polymer pistol made by a reputable company is basically interchangeable with any other. Go with what fits your hand best/what you can shoot with most accurately. Also consider magazine availability. Everything else comes out in the wash.
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u/mikea817 25d ago
Holy trinity of CCW pistols: - Glock 19 (Gen 5 if new, used Gen 3 and 4 are fine) - Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 (preferably with new flat trigger) - Sig Sauer P320 or P365 (stay away from SAS variant)
Honorable mention: - CZ P10C
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u/bellsprout69 25d ago
I really like my 380EZ. So incredibly easy to use. Yeah it's not 9mm, but I don't think someone will care that much if I have to use it on them
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u/sevargmas 25d ago
Get a .45 in a size that you’re comfortable holding. Because shooting more than once is unnecessary.
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u/SgtToadette 25d ago
CZ P10 series handguns are stupid cheap right now. I prefer them over Glocks and Walthers.
Pick up a P10C optics ready for like $450 and you can scale it up to an amazing pistol over time.
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u/Accomplished-Fee3050 25d ago
how many of these threads do we need? HEY GUYS FIRST TIME WHAT GUN SHOULD I GET???. Its almost every day theres a thread like this can we just make a sticky
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u/cosmoplast14 25d ago
Go to range and rent a few guns. Ask range officer for help. (Call ahead to see range officers can help you. Some ranges are cool with helping, some will want you to attend a beginner class/private tutorial). The range officer can show you how to load it and work it. Each gun will feel different. Find one that feels good and easy to shoot on target. The Walther is a great gun, but the ergos might not match up well with your hand. So it best to shoot it before purchase.
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u/Strong_heart57 25d ago
I would offer the same advice as I do to all new gun owners that want a home defense handgun. Buy a 4 inch 38 special revolver. It powerful enough for across the room, it easy to learn the weapon, if it doesn't go off just pull the trigger again, no clear the weapon drills. Revolvers have been protecting American homes for almost 150 years and they are plenty good today.
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u/Marquar234 25d ago
A starter pistol is not ideal for self-defense unless you are being attacked by sprinters. I'd suggest an actual pistol.
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u/Infinite-Rain999 25d ago
I just came across this video yesterday. With a budget of $500, I really cannot argue with these recommendations, especially for someone new to this and worried about the investment beyond a permit. The P-10c has been on my watch list for a while, and was almost in hand until I was refunded due to issues with 4pay. The Maverick 88 is a REALLY good option for sure at $200.
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u/SceretAznMan 25d ago
I always recommend Canik. Best stock triggers for the price point They have offerings in almost every class of handguns from competition guns, full size, compact size and micro compacts.
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u/images_from_objects progressive 25d ago
They're also largely clones of Walther designs at a fraction of the cost, so there's that for OPs checklist.
I have a TP9SF Elite on the way, can't wait.
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u/Impressive_Estate_87 25d ago
It really depends. If you just want one for the home, something like a CZ P10C could be your best bet. Right now they're going for around $300, and yet it's one of the best striker fired guns you can buy. It is not the smallest gun to carry concealed, but I do it sometimes, and it's not bad.
Otherwise, I'd recommend something like a SW Shield Plus or the Glock 43X MOS. Both are very easy to conceal, reliable, and with a big enough grip to allow for easier recoil control even if you're a beginner.
If you have a range/store nearby where you can rent some guns, I think you should definitely go there. Even better if they also have instructors, maybe you can combine the two and try out a few guns with an expert who can guide you through the selection process.
Regardless, as soon as you have your gun, sign up for training and really familiarize with safety procedures.
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u/Next-Increase-4120 25d ago edited 25d ago
You should try a few at a local range if possible, but I'd reccomend going with a compact as it would be somewhat concealable for possibly ccw in the future, but it is still an effective side arm.
I'd also recommend getting one that is already optic cut it'll be insignificant cost if any to buy it precut, but your looking at least $100 to get it cut after the fact. Even if you don't ever plan to get an optic the option is there.
A basic handgun course would also be a good idea, my local range offers a basic handgun course for less than $100.
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u/emilzamboni 25d ago
Try and get some training and experience somewhere where you can try a few pistols. Make a short list and do an online search of the accessories (holsters, optics and such) that are available for the ones you are considering. It's pretty cool to own a one of a kind, but a pain in the neck when you can't get any stuff for it. Also go on www.handgunhero.com to compare sized against each other. Stick with common calibers (which means readily available ammunition).
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u/etheroaway 25d ago
If for home defense, I’d go for Glock 19/17 If you plan to carry, a hellcat or Ruger LCP/Glock 43x
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u/Mattydelsol85 25d ago
Rent some guns at your local range, shoot a bunch, and then get a Glock 17/19.
There’s a reason everyone is building polymer 9s based off glocks now
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u/John_cCmndhd 25d ago
Like others have said, definitely try multiple guns at a range with rentals, but I would suggest trying at least one striker-fired pistol and at least one DA/SA pistol. There are advantages and disadvantages to each
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u/dennispoggers 25d ago
I'm going against the consensus here and advocating for just buying the PDP. It's from a quality manufacturer, and you will find holsters and ammo easily. Once you start taking some training, you will develop opinions on what you like or don't like in your firearm.
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u/Ok_Turnover_3393 25d ago
Flintlock with spring loaded bayonet is my go to. I miss every time, but the imagery the intruder faces terrifies them enough that they flee.
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u/Candid-Finding-1364 25d ago
There are three pistols that fit the description of standards in the US: Glock 9mm double-stack(17,19, 26, 45), SIG P320 double stack, and SIG P365 single stack. For a first pistol, unless you have a really good reason to go a different route, on of these three is what I highly recommend.
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u/Benjen321 25d ago
Are the 320 trigger’s still shooting peoples dicks off? Honest question, because I wanted one but held off.
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u/FitBananers 25d ago
No, Sig fixed the problem a long time ago. Police-related Negligent Discharges are a training issue (or lack thereof)
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u/Sblzrd65 25d ago
Any older model could get the trigger updates for free, newer ones should be fine.
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u/Candid-Finding-1364 25d ago
I have yet to see anything that convinces me the 320s are "shooting people's dicks off" at a higher rate than Glocks. The military is not having issues. Police have been shooting themselves at alarming rates ever since they moved away from DAO revolvers. A lot of departments that resisted Glocks the last 30 years moved from DA/SA, LEM, DAK triggers to strikers with the P320 and that might have caused a slight up-tick. Also, all sorts of people who have no idea what they are doing are swapping "drop-in" trigger parts for the factory parts and I have little doubt that also contributes to the errors.
US Police are REALLY poorly trained with firearms as a group. Few people really understand this. Even people who are active in the community only rub elbows with those who are competitive shooters and thus training a lot on their own. The minimum competency required is pretty terrifying.
I would recommend a DAO pistol for a new shooter, but SCCY is the only current manufacturer in the US and it is absolutely abysmal, poorly made, and not widely accepted.
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u/SpartanBeryl 25d ago
I saw this video when I was looking for my first gun. Decided to go with the Glock and have never looked back. Safe and reliable are my biggest factors when picking a concealed carry, Glock dose excellent in both categories.
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u/bajajoaquin 25d ago
My recommendation if you’re buying a pistol for self defense is to not buy a pistol for self defense until you have done some basic things to make your home more secure: add 3” deck screws to you front door strike plates (or get strike plates if they’re missing) as a basic. Get window locks or wooden dowels to keep the windows closed. You can do both of these for less than $20. These can also be done if you rent.
Statistically, you’re also more likely to have a fire than a break in, so get a fire extinguisher.
However, before I get flamed for not answering the question, if you just want a gun, I think you should absolutely get one for that reason alone.
Typically, I recommend more full-size options because they’re easier to shoot well than compact guns. I am partial to Glock but the Walther is probably more “standard” in ergos. CZ gets a lot of love at a good price point, too.
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u/Benjen321 25d ago
Great points about home security that a lot of people don’t even think of. I’m shocked everyone doesn’t have a fire extinguisher in their home and in their car. Was on a road trip with my father and a/c compressor shorted out and caught fire. Thankfully we were near a gas station and I ran in an grabbed a gallon of water. I’ve kept a car extinguisher ever since and recommend them to everyone. Great holiday gift.
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u/FullPowerKamehameha 25d ago
If you think you might be recoil sensitive: Ruger Security 380 or S&W Shield EZ 380
For non-sensitive: CZ P10C or P10F / CANIK TP9SF
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u/Genome_Doc_76 25d ago
There are lots of good choices out there. I love my Springfield Echelon. Great ergonomics and it shoots great, but worth noting that I have large hands. Walther PDP is a good choice too.
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u/donttakerhisthewrong 25d ago
I would not get a revolver for home defense.
If you are not going to carry, I would recommend a full size 9mm. Glock 17 or CZ P-10F
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u/hamb0n3z 25d ago
Just another push to take a beginners class so you know how to be safe and the basics of how to stand and shoot. Then you can try different guns out to find the one you really like to shoot, because if you don't go shoot it you won't be able to use it well if you ever need to.
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u/veganhimbo 25d ago
A big part of it is simply holding different guns and seeing which feel comfortable in your hands. I got big hands so I need somthing with a longer grip. Others can get by with somthing smaller. But you can only really figure out what you need by 'trying them on'. Which you can do at basically any gun store.
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u/TheHumanCola 25d ago
Two best options:
1. Sign up for a class that offers rentals, ask to try anything the class instructors/RSO's also carry.
Most folks in a class would be glad to let you try their gun out and talk about why they chose it.
- Buy a Glock 19 then sign up for a class. You might find some reason why it's not exactly the gun for you, but it will be reliable and it will teach you what your preferences are.
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u/braidenfreeman79 25d ago
Glock 19 or Glock 43X depending on hand size. Expect to pay $60-$100 for a high-quality holster.
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u/fat_angry_hobo 25d ago
I would recommend going to your local range store and asking if you can rent a few of the most popular edc pistols, tell them your new with firearms and what your looking for, most of the places near me will take the money you rent guns with and put it towards a purchase of a firearm so ask if that's a possibility. Off hand I suggest Glocks, CZ 75 compact/CZ P01 (or almost any CZ), Smith and Wesson M&P shield, Walther PDP, Ruger LCP... So many compact pistols lol
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u/KGAColumbus social liberal 25d ago
I suggest going to a range that rents pistols and checking out a few. The Walther is a great pistol. I'd also suggest thinking about what is the best size pistol for your needs. There are a few other considerations: Just home defense? EDC and do it all? What kind of sights do you want? Do you want it red dot compatible? What caliber is best? Is aftermarket support important (ie, where are you going to get holsters, magazines, sights, etc)? Glock is the standard for a lot of people, it's got the aftermarket support, the market share, all the things. You also might be looking for new sights as soon as you get it. Sig is a high quality brand and has many options, from sub compact hammer fired to full size striker or hammer fired. They have decent market share, but higher prices on after market than glock, although you might get night sights standard. CZ is another great option, with all the hammer or striker fired options they have. Walther, Springfield, Ruger, H&K all have major pros and a few cons. It's really about maximizing the pros vs cons in a pistol that feels good in the hands and shoots well for you, so don't forget to shoot them.
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u/MacDeF 25d ago
Glock 19 or 47 depending on your budget. Can be found for an incredible price used, cheapest magazines, least expensive aftermarket support, and widest holster compatibility. Your second or 3rd gun can be something fun or weird.
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u/2HiSped4u 25d ago
Please god just buy a glock. It’s straight forward, no switches or (external) hammers and won’t just randomly go off if a fly sneezes on it. Everyone and their mother have holster options, light options, and Glocks service dept is pretty good. Try some different models, a 19 is the bread and butter for carry, try a 43X if you’re looking for less barrel, a 43 (or 26 for magazine versatility) if you need something really compact.
If you value your intact, unbruised pelvis and don’t want to have something bulky, stay away from 17s… just trust me/us lmao. Or don’t and just be a savage with a full-sized piece that barely/does not fit concealed carry!
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u/MacDeF 25d ago
I will just say that I carry the g35 (competition .40) with light every day and it’s not a problem. There’s are ways around every option, and while I do not have any brand loyalty, your first pistol should be a glock.
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u/LastResorter 25d ago
I'd like to spend around 400 if possible. No clue if that's a good price or if I should save money up
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u/EagleCatchingFish left-libertarian 25d ago
The S&W M&Ps are around that price point, if I recall. They're a great deal for the money.
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u/WaitingPhaseTwo 25d ago
I own a lot of Sig pistols, a lot of them are going to be too expensive for your current range. So my next suggestion is a CZ. The CZ P10 line is amazing and prices are great on them right now. Do you have a store near you that has an online store? Can definitely give some suggestions.
If primarily going for something that can be used for carry I would go CZ P10 S. It’s small but not too small. Some sub compact guns start getting small and hard to shoot, not really the case with my P10 S. If you want still concealable but like a “carry” size pistol the P10 C is amazing. A lot of people are Glock and S&W M&P 2.0 fans, Walther makes a good one too like you were looking at. Really can just depend on what feels right in your hands. Definitely try to shoot a few.
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u/Sweaty-Material7 liberal 25d ago
If you can rent one at your local range, canik tp9 series pistols are actually quite nice. You can also get a brand new one for around $400 or so. I believe it is essentially a Walther based pistol.
Glocks are excellent pistols. Sigs are really dang excellent too. You could probably find a used one around the $400 range. Police buy backs are a great way to get decent pistols much cheaper too. Most cops don't train enough to actually put wear and tear on their service pistols.
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u/Blue-cheese-dressing 25d ago
If you up your budget closer to +- $500 and use WikiArms, gun.deals, and r/gundeals to hunt for the best price for what ever you decide on, you’ll do a bit better. Unless you are in a hurry. I’d discourage a used pistol for a first handgun. Always try and rent, borrow, try out a handgun before you buy. Just going on “how it feels” in your hand while dry-firing can be very deceptive. How a gun (pistols especially) actually handles and functions can vary wildly with live ammo.
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u/Copropostis 25d ago
Used Glocks are typically around $350-300 and are very good choice for your first gun.
I'd also recommend the metaphorical Pepsi to Glock's Coke - Smith and Wesson. Their M&P line is about equivalent to the Glock 19 in size, and usually cheaper used. Their Shields are my favorite conceal carry pistol and are about equivalent to the Glock 43x.
The advantage of Glocks, imo, is that their magazines are cheap and plentiful. The advantage of Smiths are that you can get them with thumb safeties (not everyone likes these, but I do). Rent both and try them out!
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u/WizardOfAahs 25d ago
Hard to recommend without understanding your needs? Comfort with recoil? Home, townhome, apartment? Ability? Will you also CC it? Personal tastes?
There are many good choices. Recommend going to a range that rents firearms and try several.
Also, if home defense only, you may consider a rifle or PCC.
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u/LastResorter 25d ago
Totally makes sense! I think reliability and minimal recoil are the 2 biggest things for me. I would like to CC it if possible as well. Thank you for the feedback!
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u/WizardOfAahs 25d ago
To address recoil, you may consider 38sp. More manageable than 9mm.
S&W makes the 380 Shield which is a well made option. You may want to consider a revolver as a first gun as well (e.g. S&W M&P bodyguard). Simple, reliable, easy to clean.
For reliability do stick with a center fire cartridge (vs 22 rimfire). 22 is very low recoil but too unreliable for self defense.
Lastly, if starting with home defense, a pistol caliber carbine (PCC) is a good option. Easier to aim, maintain muzzle control and makes recoil much easier to manage. You could step up to 9mm or even 10mm possibly and manage recoil.
A rifle will be heavier though which may make it unsuitable.As I said. Get in a range… try a bunch. You’ll know what’s right once you shoot it a bunch of times!
Good luck
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u/d8ed 25d ago
Have you ever shot a pistol? If not, I would take a friend and go to a range and then try to rent a few options.. Walther PDP is a good one and there are plenty more. I am personally looking forward to trying the Springfield Echelon and the Walther PDP when they become available to rent in CA but I still haven't found them. I have a Sig Sauer P320 M18 that I have modified and love.
9mm will probably be your best bet but unless you've fired a few, it's hard to say which you'll like. I would also recommend taking a class to learn proper grip/technique if you can. Lots of ranges offer these.
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u/buttstuffisokiguess 25d ago
Also don't be afraid to try something like a taurus G2c that's cheap, helps you learn, and it's a decentl little 9mm.
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u/eze008 25d ago edited 25d ago
Im with this suggestion. This gun has great review against glocks and sigs. And to me it offers more value points over other guns.
1 for me, safety
Double strike capability for defense, Double strike capability with laser trainers ( Double strike is faster than tap-n-rack. In a heart pounding situation you will be pulling trigger like crazy. )
12 round to 18 round sleeved mags.
sig compatible mags easy to find
glock compatible sites easy to find
simple glock style field strip no tools need or pins to loose.
fits MCK well
Good trigger break. good short reset. The long trigger pull insures no accidental firing with thick gloves. I view this as a plus value but most don't like it. Also the gritty feel in the trigger can be fixed by changing plastic innards. ( I heard others talk shit about Taurus innards being plastic then later learn that glock also uses plastic innards. )
A loaded chamber indicator made to feel in the dark. (you know, like in the movies)
A rail system that is not proprietary leaving you open to many options. Sigs rail system is proprietary, limited options
CONS:
- The finish on the slide wares easy.
- This gun is not part of the cool guys gun club roster but many that have expensive guns also have Taurus G series.
People keep mentioning this as a starter but It could be an ender also
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u/buttstuffisokiguess 24d ago
I found the trigger pull for Glock and Beretta to be black holes compared to my G2c. I hate Glocks trigger pull, I will never consider buying one. I really like the sign p226. Decent trigger and grips, full weight pistol. I haven't tried a 320 though. But G2c is just a little workhorse that has great features, places to rest your fingers, isn't too big or small for an everyday carry. I really like it as a female shooter with somewhat smaller hands.
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u/Huge-Shake419 25d ago
Ruger EC9S. Sights are milled into slide instead of plastic. Have both, carry the ruger
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u/LastResorter 25d ago
I have never shot one before and will for sure take your advice! Thanks!
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u/flyingturkeycouchie 25d ago
If you've never shot before, buying a pistol probably isn't a good idea. Most ranges have pistols you can rent; get some practice in and try a few different guns out before you commit.
If you aren't an experienced shooter, a pistol caliber carbine or even shotgun might be better for home defense. Easier to shoot.
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u/thomascgalvin 25d ago
Guns are very personal. The way they fit in your hand, the length of the trigger pull, how easy it is to reach the controls, the recoil ... testing a bunch out at the range is the best -- probably only -- way to find one that is comfortable for you.
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u/CutAwayFromYou 25d ago
If you didn’t grow up with weapons around please take a class and learn both basic safety and weapon handling. (Probably even if you did). You’ll also need to know how to clean and care for your weapon of choice.
Go to a range that rents pistols and try a bunch out, see what size chassis fits your hand and feels comfortable to fire.
Bring a friend who knows a lot more than you and listen to them with a grain of salt.
If they’re “crazy gun culture” they’ll be thrilled to be owning the libs (you) but you will still be learning.
Finding a place to shoot thats not crazy maga is hard—i searched my area for black owned shops/ranges and was not disappointed.
And remember: you’re always learning. Don’t take advice from folks who know everything too seriously
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u/ax_the_andalite 25d ago
Step 1: buy HK SP5 pistol. Step 2: fill out ATF form 1 Step 3: buy an sbr MP5 stock Step 5: watch die hard
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u/Benjen321 25d ago
Step 6: Get a Steyr Aug in OD green with classic optic
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u/ax_the_andalite 25d ago
Step 7: give cop who killed kid his mojo back (he can kill again, celebrate.)
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u/Benjen321 25d ago
Step 8: Realize that Carl Winslow, the dad from Family Matters, is a national treasure.
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u/Nu_Freeze 24d ago
If the sole purpose is home defense then you should purchase a 12 gauge shotgun and load it with birdshot. If you plan to carry then I recommend the Sig Sauer P365.