Top 8 Most Suitable Guns For Beginners (Part 2)

It is essential to find a suitable model, especially if you are new to handguns. The handgun you choose should offer relative ease and minimal recoil. In this article, we will walk you through a list of beginner handguns that are known for their proven performance and approachability.

A snub-nosed handgun has always been a favored choice of private citizens and law enforcement officers. This is because it offers concealed carry, high reliability, and ease of operation. Smith & Wesson’s first snub-nosed revolver was launched in 1950. The Model 442, chambered in the .38 Special cartridge, consists of a 1⅞-inch stainless-steel barrel. 
It has a carbon steel cylinder that is enclosed in an aluminum-alloy frame. It weighs about 14.7 oz. It is a double-action gun that is rated for continuous +P (overpressure) ammunition use. In addition, model 442 is compatible with .38 Special defense loads.

Another handgun that is worth considering for home defense is the striker-fired Heckler & Koch VP9. Heckler & Koch VP9 is popular for its user-friendliness. Heckler & Koch VP9 was produced in 2014. It is a continuation of the tradition set by HK 50 years ago. 
It offers ambidextrous controls including a paddle magazine release. This can be activated by the index finger without breaking the firing grip. Its two horizontal projections improve the gripping surface of the slide.

SIG Sauer P238 is a compact, semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 Auto. It is fed from a single-stack 6-round steel magazine. Inspired by the classic M1911 design, SIG Sauer P238 is a single-action-only (SAO) pistol. In addition, it has a manual safety lever that allows the pistol to be carried cocked and locked. It is a concealed carry handgun that weighs about 15.2 oz. It has a 2.7” barrel and measures 5.5” in overall length. 

The PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coated slide is mated to an aluminum-alloy frame. It has a comparatively short height that may not provide your hand with a sufficient gripping surface. You can use a 7-round magazine with an extended base plate. This offers comfort and support to individuals who have larger hands.

The Rock Standard is an inexpensive addition to the world of 1911 handguns. It features a 5” button-rifled barrel. The Rock Standard weighs about 2½ lbs and is fed from an 8-round magazine. Although it is heavier than its polymer-framed handgun alternatives, the additional weight helps in recoil management. The Rock Standard is based on the classic Colt Mark IV Series 70 but offers the following noteworthy improvements:

• An adjustable trigger.
• Enlarged ejection port that allows casings to be expelled in a continuous pattern.
• Large manual safety lever that promotes speed.
• Enhanced grip safety beavertail that protects the hand from the hammer bite.
• A checkered backstrap that allows increased traction.

Beginning with Ruger Mark I .22-caliber handgun in 1949, Sturm, Ruger & Co. has since manufactured high-quality firearms. Introduced in 1985, Ruger GP100 is chambered in the potent .357 Magnum cartridge. The revolver is built on a larger frame and comes with a swing-out cylinder. It is a double- and single-action (DA/SA) gun that consumes +P .357 Magnum loads. 

In addition, Ruger GP100 offers options in weights, configurations, barrel lengths, and finishes. It has a triple-lock system that uses a retractable bolt. This helps prevent the cylinder from rotating. Moreover, it can fire .38 Special ammunition which makes it suitable for inexpensive range practice. Ruger GP100 is a robust and reliable option for both beginners and experienced shooters.

To sum things up, the best handgun for self-defense is the one that you can easily operate in high-stress situations. So make your choice wisely.