Gearing up to buy your first handgun but unsure where to start? Whether for home defense, concealed carry, or recreational shooting, choosing the right handgun is an important decision. This guide will walk you through key factors to consider, from selecting the right firearm to testing different models.
Determining the Purpose of Your Handgun
Before purchasing your first handgun, consider how you intend to use it:
- Home Defense: A full-size handgun with higher capacity and easier handling might be best.
- Concealed Carry: A compact or subcompact model designed for easy concealment is ideal.
- Target Shooting or Recreation: Accuracy, comfort, and affordability may be key factors.
Your choice should be based on what feels comfortable, meets your needs, and aligns with your experience level.
Test Before You Buy
No matter how well-reviewed a handgun is, it’s essential to test-fire different models before deciding. Visit a shooting range that rents handguns and try a few options to assess:
✔️ Ergonomics – How it fits in your hand and feels when shooting
✔️ Recoil – Some handguns kick harder than others, impacting control
✔️ Reliability – Smooth operation and consistent performance matter
✔️ Ease of Use – Consider how easy it is to rack the slide and reload
Many first-time buyers assume smaller handguns are easier to handle, but that’s not always the case—sometimes, a slightly larger gun provides better control.
Best Handguns for Beginners
While personal preference plays a role, here are five reliable and beginner-friendly handguns:
- Glock 43 (9mm) – Compact, lightweight, and ideal for concealed carry
- Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 (9mm) – Great ergonomics and reliability
- Springfield XD (9mm) – A solid striker-fired pistol for beginners
- Ruger Security-9 – Affordable and easy to shoot
- Sig Sauer P320 – Modular and versatile for different uses
Glock 26 vs. Glock 43: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re considering a Glock 43 or Glock 26, you’ll want to compare their differences. The Glock 43 is slimmer and easier to conceal, while the Glock 26 offers more capacity in a slightly larger frame. Check out our detailed comparison here:
➡️ Glock Showdown: The Glock 43 vs. the Glock 26
Best Handguns for Concealed Carry
If concealed carry is your goal, compact and lightweight options are ideal:
- Glock 43X (9mm) – Slim and reliable for everyday carry
- Sig Sauer P365 – High capacity in a small frame
- Ruger LCP Max – Ultra-compact for deep concealment
- Smith & Wesson Shield Plus – Comfortable grip with added capacity
- Springfield Hellcat – One of the highest-capacity micro-compacts
Before committing to a concealed carry gun, practice drawing and holstering it to ensure it fits your lifestyle.
Secure Carry with Clipdraw
Whether for home defense or concealed carry, safe and convenient gun storage is a must. Clipdraw offers a minimalist, no-holster solution for carrying your firearm securely and discreetly.
✔️ Slim profile – No bulky holster to add extra width
✔️ Quick access – Securely clips inside your waistband
✔️ Compatible with multiple brands – Glock, Smith & Wesson, Sig Sauer & more
When selecting your first handgun, consider pairing it with a Clipdraw gun clip for a secure and comfortable carry option.
Final Thoughts
Buying your first handgun is a big step, and choosing the right one depends on your needs, comfort, and experience level. Take the time to research, test different models, and understand how to carry safely.
Ready to gear up? Explore Clipdraw’s holster-free carry solutions to make your first handgun experience even better!
