bleachercreacher
Footballguy
Yep, we still have the same Great Dane. She probably sleeps more sound than I do, and she never barks. She's kind of useless as a guard dog.
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if you were going to buy a new gun, what would you get? (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter grateful zed
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pollardsvision
Footballguy
My FIL got me a Remington 870 for Christmas. Put a couple hundred shells through it shooting clays for the holidays, and heading out for a couple hundred more today. Man, that thing is so much fun to shoot (and who doesn't just love that sound). I've only ever really shot other people's semi-autos, O/U's, and my beloved hardware store brand 16 gauge single shot that my Dad got me when I was 12, but there's just something satisfying about a pump action.
Yeah, I'd agree with the suggestions for the 870 for a new gunowner. As a novice myself, I've found it incredibly easy to operate, take apart and clean. Picked up a readily available 18.5" barrel and of course, it's quick and easy to swap out.
I do have a feeling I'm going to end up getting a Mossberg 500 at some point because, you know, why not? Those seem fun.
I have noticed issues with certain Winchester shells. It's a new Express, and from what I gather (like so many other things), they just don't make them like they used to, and for some reason the cheap shell ejectors and/or the cheap finish in the chamber on the new Expresses, Winchester shells often need a little help ejecting. Got a buddy that's always brought an 870 to shoot, and would regularly have ejection/jamming issues. The "house ammo" is always those 100 shell boxes of Winchester, so just using different ammo eliminated those issues. For me, Rem shells have ejected cleanly every time, and every single Winchester shell has needed help.
Speaking of the 18.5" barrel, anybody ever have any luck knocking down clays with a shorter barrel? I'm going to try it out, try to get at'em early, but I suspect it'll mostly just be a waste of shells.
Yeah, I'd agree with the suggestions for the 870 for a new gunowner. As a novice myself, I've found it incredibly easy to operate, take apart and clean. Picked up a readily available 18.5" barrel and of course, it's quick and easy to swap out.
I do have a feeling I'm going to end up getting a Mossberg 500 at some point because, you know, why not? Those seem fun.
I have noticed issues with certain Winchester shells. It's a new Express, and from what I gather (like so many other things), they just don't make them like they used to, and for some reason the cheap shell ejectors and/or the cheap finish in the chamber on the new Expresses, Winchester shells often need a little help ejecting. Got a buddy that's always brought an 870 to shoot, and would regularly have ejection/jamming issues. The "house ammo" is always those 100 shell boxes of Winchester, so just using different ammo eliminated those issues. For me, Rem shells have ejected cleanly every time, and every single Winchester shell has needed help.
Speaking of the 18.5" barrel, anybody ever have any luck knocking down clays with a shorter barrel? I'm going to try it out, try to get at'em early, but I suspect it'll mostly just be a waste of shells.
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steelerfan1
Footballguy
Not a big gun guy.
Going to go rent and shoot a 9MM caliber for the day.
Will be shooting:
Glock 43
Springfield XDs
S&W M&P Shield
I was told this is basically the Ford vs Chevy debate thing...They all are very reliable and go with what you feel good with and shoot best. Is this a fair statement?
Going to go rent and shoot a 9MM caliber for the day.
Will be shooting:
Glock 43
Springfield XDs
S&W M&P Shield
I was told this is basically the Ford vs Chevy debate thing...They all are very reliable and go with what you feel good with and shoot best. Is this a fair statement?
Ron Swanson
Footballguy
9mm is a fun and inexpensive round for target practice. I would add a classic Beretta 92FS to your rentals. Its heavier and bigger than the guns on your list and is great for target shooting. For some real fun, grab a 9mm carbine.
pollardsvision
Footballguy
I'm not sure if Remington makes an 18.5 with removable chokes or not, but the one I have is a straight barrel (fixed cylinder).
Much to my surprise, it actually does pretty well shooting clay targets (actually did better with the short barrel than the longer barrel, though that's not saying much). I've always tended to try to get them in the first 25-30 anyway, so maybe it just suits my style. Plus, I feel like I can maneuver and track better with the shorter barrel (same reason I've always loved my little 16 gauge). The 18.5" barrel will knock them down just fine, though it typically just breaks them into 3-4 pieces. It doesn't turn them to dust like the 28" barrel (with a modified choke).
Tells me I've got a lot of work to do getting better with the 28" barrel and longer shots.
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steelerfan1
Footballguy
thanks RS, i'm looking for something a can carry all 4 seasons. also want something with the least amount of parts which for me means a revolver or striker fire type option. i may add a 357 rugar lcr to the 3 striker fired ones i mentioned above and see how i do with that.
TheFanatic
Footballguy
Of all the polymer 9's I've fired, the Walther and the Springfield are the best. Most of the polymer carry 9's shoot like ####. Crappy triggers and terrible kick because they are simply too light and transfer all that power to your hand. I settled on a Glock 42 for my EDC. Same diameter as a 9mm, but a shorter bullet. Some say it doesn't have enough stopping power, but with zombie killer hollow points that bullet opens up bigger than a nickel but smaller than a quarter. It may not drop a bear, but it will drop just about anything short of that.
I own a Sig 320, S&W 5904 and XD's in both 9mm and 45, but I carry the .380. The reason is, the 9's are full frame which make them easier to shoot, but harder to carry. Trying to carry the 5 inch 45 or 320 in shorts is hard to do. The smaller 9's shoot like crap, so I go with what is the easiest to carry and at the same time a dream to practice with. Because if you aren't going to practice with it, you shouldn't carry it.
Ron Swanson
Footballguy
Ben & Jerry's
Footballguy
Ruger SP101 2.5" .357 is a nice option if you want a revolver.
TheFanatic
Footballguy
I have not. And this is going to sound stupid, but I just hate the way it looks. And I love Ruger's. I own a couple of them, but I can't stand that gun. That being said, I've heard really good things about it.Ron Swanson said:
I don't know much about the other three, but the m&p shield is a small gun. It's too small for me and I'm horribly inaccurate with it.
jwb
Footballguy
I have the LCR which is comparable. I like it, but I find it too heavy/bulky to carry in shorts.
I'm not seeing if the SP101 can use .38 ammo as well. My LCR .357 does, which makes it much easier to practice with. In short, a .357 at that length can be brutal to shoot. I can't see anyone enjoying shooting my LCR with .357 ammo for any length of time - it's like hitting your hand with a hammer.
My everyday carry is a Ruger LCP .380. It's an easy carry all 4 seasons, no matter what I am wearing. In a small pocket holster, it's slightly larger than my wallet. You can carry this thing in gym shorts.
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UncleZen
Footballguy
BroncoFreak_2K3
sucker for Orange
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steelerfan1
Footballguy
Thanks Fanatic. Since I've started researching I've heard a lot of opinions.
The side that says a .22 hitting it's target (AKA shot placement is key) is better than a .45 not hitting it (Or worse, hitting something you don't want it to)
At this time, this is going to be the only firearm I have, so it will be a carry gun as well as a home defense gun. I'm trying to find the best of both worlds.
I know that you mentioned the 380 ammo they make today is very impressive but with this being my sole gun I think if I can handle a 9MM or 38 comfortably I'd prefer to have that.
The people I've spoke to who have the mini polymer guns do say there is some recoil in the 9MM, more with the .40 and even more with the 45 ACP (obviously). They do say with practice though that it is definitely manageable. A friend of ours who is about 5'2 110# soaking wet has a mini 40 that she said is fine for her in the recoil department. (She is at the range a few times a month however and putting a lot of rounds through it)
With the above said, I think if it's something a smaller framed person can get comfortable with, I think I should (with lots of range practice) be able to manage a 9MM in the smaller framed types. It doesn't sound like I will be attempting to shoot a 44 magnum here in terms of recoil/muzzle flash, etc.
I do have hands on the smaller size and the single stack grip did feel comfortable to me, but the extended mag allowing the pinky finger purchase is going to be a must I think.
Thanks again for your thoughts.
steelerfan1
Footballguy
This felt a tad bulky for me B&J. That's why I was maybe considering the 357 LCR. I wouldn't put 357 rounds in it, but the grip and little added weight of the 357 version LCR I thought was nice.
steelerfan1
Footballguy
Thanks UZ. Will be going to the range today.UncleZen said:
steelerfan1
Footballguy
Do you carry 38 Plus P? If so, is recoil ok to you in the 357 LCR? Thanks.jwb said:
jwb
Footballguy
To answer your question, .38's are no issue in the LCR. Recoil is what you expect from .38 - not too bad. But I do find the gun a little too heavy/bulky for comfortable carry. If I'm wearing a jacket, no problem - it goes in a pocket. But if not, I don't find it comfortable. I like my .380 a lot better.
My point in posting was B&J recommended the Ruger SP101, and I was commenting that if anyone is going to buy a short barrel .357 revolver, make sure it can take .38 as well for the range. Otherwise, you'll never practice much with it. Most guys cannot get through 5 shots with mine. They take 2 or 3 and hand it back.
ETA - just saw a video for the SP101, and the guy said "I'm shooting .38 specials to give myself a break", so I guess it does.
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opensourcebeer
Footballguy
If you're looking for something to conceal carry, the Glock 43 and S&W M&P Shield are both good, reliable guns. I carry a Shield and like it. Glocks feel like holding on to an uncomfortable plastic brick to me. The advice to go with what feels good in your hand and you shoot best with is good advice. I don't have any experience with Springfields.
Regardless of your selection of pistol, I'd urge you to get some some basic pistol training. Instruction on proper stance, draw, grip, and sight alignment will make a world of difference. Also, don't cheap out out a holster and belt to carry concealed. If you get garbage, it won't be comfortable and you won't want to carry.
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![[icon]](/data/avatars/m/5/5167.jpg?1660313464){kind=avatar}
[icon]
Insoxicated
This. Critical defense is my daily carry defense round in my Glock 26. I have zero issue landing 3 rapid-succession double-taps in center mass at 8 meters.
Great round for subcompact polyframes.
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[icon]
Insoxicated
This. Try both. S&W and Glock use two unique grip angles so almost without fail when I take someone out they shoot better with one than the other (usually better w the Glock, but it varies). Often your ideal gun finds you.
And then yes, get a proper holster (I suggest Inside Waistband (IWB) Kydex formed for your pistol) ($30-60). Then TAKE CLASSES AND GO TO THE RANGE TO PRACTICE.
Charlie Harper
Footballguy
I hate the feel of a Glock, the square grip is just way too uncomfortable for me. I hate the triggers on the M&P, way too mushy. The XD is my pick of the 3. I'm a CZ guy myself (I have a PCR, can't own a P10C in CA) because it fits like a glove. I'd also recommend testing out a HK VP9. The modular grips will ensure it feels good in your hand and also John Wick!!
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opensourcebeer
Footballguy
icon and I discussed this on the first page of this thread (starting here). To summarize:
Advantages of a shotgun for home defense:
- Greater stopping power.
- Less reliance on accuracy.
- Better ergonomics. It is much easier to safely and effectively operate a handgun with one hand leaving your other hand free to use a phone, flip a light switch, carry a small child, manipulate a door lock/knob, or use a flashlight. It is also easier to operate a handgun in tight spaces, for instance, hallways around bedrooms.
- Greater range of options and smaller space needed to keep a handgun safely and securely at the ready.
TL;DR: go with the weapon you are most proficient with.
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UncleZen
Footballguy
This also great advice. If you are going for a concealed carry, make sure you practice a lot at home before you start carrying. Unload your weapon and practice drawing from the several positions for carry and see what works best for you. There are a lot of great videos on youtube showing the different carry positions and advantages of them. I wore my gun at home for several months while waiting for my permit to get used to it and most importantly, leave it alone. You will want to keep touching it and checking it but don't. Get a holster you trust and then trust it. You will probably end up buying several holsters before you find the one that works.
steelerfan1
Footballguy
Thanks guys,
Shot all 3 with 115 grain lastnight. Range ammo, nothing high end. I've read several complaints about the XDs and Critical Defense ammo not going well together...I'm eyeing maybe Speer Gold Dot but am going to read a bit more.
steelerfan1
Footballguy
steelerfan1
Footballguy
Thanks guys,
Had a chance to shoot all 3 lastnight.
Nothing crazy mind you, as I'm a newbie. Only had the target 15 feet out. It was more to get a feel of the recoil, aiming, loading, stance, etc.
Have to say I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of recoil. I envisioned a lot worse.
I did not like how the S&W Shield felt.
The Glock 43 wasn't bad, but I'm with Charlie Harper here. Really liked how the XDs felt in my hand. Was most comfortable using that.
Before I purchase, I think I may go to the range 1 more time and shoot the 43 and XDs again with maybe 50 rounds each and put target a bit further back just to confirm.
The guy at the range was helpful with some basics, but I do have a few avid gun friends who said they would be more than willing to take me under their wing.
I'll also research the holsters and the carrying positions UZ and Icon.
The guy at the range was big in dry firing practice when home. He said it would not hurt a striker fire type gun at all, but I had always heard not to do that. Maybe that was with another type of gun?
Thanks again for all of the useful info.
opensourcebeer
Footballguy
Charlie Harper
Footballguy
opensourcebeer
Footballguy
KCitons
Footballguy
On other thing is how you secure a shotgun vs a handgun. I have a 12 gauge with 18.5 barrel, but keep it in the safe in the basement because I don't think I would be very quick removing the cable lock in the dark. A handgun can be put in a biometric safe that allows quick access.opensourcebeer said:
sports_fan
Footballguy
5 gum Peppermint Cobalt
opensourcebeer
Footballguy
Agree with you here... you've extended what I noted as the second handgun advantage nicely.On other thing is how you secure a shotgun vs a handgun. I have a 12 gauge with 18.5 barrel, but keep it in the safe in the basement because I don't think I would be very quick removing the cable lock in the dark. A handgun can be put in a biometric safe that allows quick access.
I use this for my home defense handgun storage. Wonderfully simple, secure, and relative cheap.
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steelerfan1
Footballguy
Thanks opensource, have been hearing good things about them and the federal 124 grain hst rounds. Not sure how much difference I'd feel from a 115 to a 124...
steelerfan1
Footballguy
Thanks guys.that link didn't work osb but I will Google. Think I'm leaning this way just from paranoia. ..
TheFanatic
Footballguy
I was just going to suggest this. Hit the range, pay the extra $10 and fire everything.
One to add to the list is a Walther. The one with the good trigger, not the Creed for $270. I fired the previous version of this that had the European mag release and loved it, but hated the release. They have since changed the release in the latest iteration. My FFL is a cop and he just got the new one and he raves about it. It's at the top of my list for my next handgun. Another you may want to try is the Sig 320C and the 938. The latter is GREAT for CCW. The former is a bit bulkier but carries more rounds. Maybe the Sig 365 too. I haven't fired that one yet but hear great things. I guess what I'm saying is you should probably try some of the other ones before you make the decision. Also, fire a 380. Just fire one.
opensourcebeer
Footballguy
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Dedfin
Footballguy
TheFanatic
Footballguy
My only problem with the Glock is no thumb safety. I prefer a safety other than just on the trigger. Otherwise, fantastic weapons.
steelerfan1
Footballguy
Hi Fanatic,TheFanatic said:
I held the Walther, not sure the model off the top of my head, but it was a compact 10 shot 9. It felt a tad big to carry for me, but I may not have had the right model you are speaking about either.
I am interested in the Sig P320 but heard they had a recall for a fire pin issue. Not saying I wouldn't buy 1, but I think I'd wait a while to make sure I got a new batch and not 1 that's been sitting on a shelf somewhere.
I know I'm probably being stubborn here, but it cost more to rent another type of round and since I wasn't overwhelmed by the compact 9's that I fired and I found them relatively small (Conceal wise), I'm not sure why I would want to go to a smaller round.
steelerfan1
Footballguy
Thanks opensource. I was going to ask for a recommendation for the type. Perfect.opensourcebeer said:
steelerfan1
Footballguy
Not sure why the importing is a plus? Springfield also imports the XDs.Dedfin said:
steelerfan1
Footballguy
I know some don't like this, but another thing I liked about the XDs was the grip safety (not sure the technical name)TheFanatic said:
TheFanatic
Footballguy
As an owner of 2 Springfield's, I don't think of this as a plus. It's the same as the trigger safety. As long as you are holding it, and in the case of the Glock having your booger hooker on the bang switch, the thing is ready to go. Having grown up with a thumb safety, I prefer that added security measure. Some would argue that the trigger and grip safeties make it easier to defend yourself, and I get that. I personally just prefer a thumb safety. One of my Sprinfields has the thumb safety and the other has the grip.
TheFanatic
Footballguy
I have the full size 320 with the full five inch barrel. It's not only gorgeous to look at but amazing to shoot. The trigger is almost too good for me as I have been shooting guns with crappy triggers for decades. If you have concerns about the firing pins, ask your local dealer about it. See if they have already sent theirs back to have it fixed, or if they have ones in stock (or can they order them) that have the issue fixed.
Oh, and if it costs to rend another kind of round, go to a different shooting range. I've never heard of that. All the ranges around me charge $10 extra to use whatever is on the wall. I went in one time and fired probably 6 different guns. All I'm saying is that this is a big decision. Both in terms of cost and the ability to defend yourself and others. That day I went in and shot six and maybe even seven different guns, I didn't buy any of them. I waited until I found the exact right weapon for what I needed.
Take your time and do lots of sampling. And never buy a gun you haven't fired. I bought a Kahr PM9 without firing it. It was the exact size of what I needed in the caliber I thought I wanted. Took it to the range and it shot like hell. Felt like I was getting thumped with a hammer with every round. It is a poorly designed gun that transfers too much of the recoil to the hand and I found that out the hard way. I sold it within 6 months of buying. You don't want a gun that you hate practicing with.
