Gearing up to buy your first handgun, but unsure where to begin? This guide for beginners can provide the information you need to determine what kind of handgun you should go with. Read on for a better understanding of the range of options you have based on your needs!

The Handgun’s Intended Purpose

If you are a beginner when it comes to firearms, the first question you need to ask yourself is: “what do I need a handgun for?” — is it for defending your home and family? Do you intend to get an open or concealed carry permit so you can stay armed in most public places? These are important questions because the specific handgun you buy should be based on your answers.

Figure Out What Feels Right (at the Shooting Range)

Aside from the intended use of your handgun, there are many other crucial factors to consider, most of which you will be unable to assess without actually test-firing a variety of handguns. If you are a beginner who isn’t sure how different brands and models feel and function in comparison to each other, it would be borderline foolish to make a purchase without testing out some of your options. Some key factors you will be able to assess at the shooting range include ergonomics, recoil, reliability, and ease of slide racking, just to name a few.

Best Handguns for Beginners

While it is strongly recommended that any beginners test-fire a few handguns before making a purchase, there’s no need to try every single brand and model out there. Here is a list of five handguns (in no particular order) that generally are solid options for beginners:

• KAHR CW9
• SMITH & WESSON M&P 2.0 (9mm)
• RUGER LCR9
• SPRINGFIELD XD
• GLOCK 43 (9mm)

Check out our article comparing Ruger and Glock handguns for more information to help you narrow down your options.

Best First Handguns for Concealed Carry

If you are looking to buy a beginner handgun for concealed carrying, here is another list for you to work off of (remember, be sure to test-fire before purchasing if you are a beginner):

• Glock 26 Gen 4 (9MM)
• Ruger LCRx .38 Special
• SCCY CPX-II
• Beretta PX4 Storm
• Beretta Pico

As you can see, we’ve listed both the Glock 43 and the Glock 26 as potential options — check out this article for a better understanding of

the difference between the Glock 26 and 43. If you end up buying a Glock as your first handgun, be sure to check out our concealed carry holsters and trigger safety products designed specifically for use with Glock handguns!

Use Clipdraw for Secure Carry Without a Holster

Now that you have all of this information, you are ready to start searching for your first handgun. Be sure to check out our beginner’s guide to concealed carry if you are new to that subject as well. And if you want a modern alternative to traditional holsters, consider equipping your handgun with a Clipdraw Gun clip — that’s right, you can holster your gun without a holster! Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you have regarding the compatibility of our products with the specific brand and model of handgun that you own.