Preparedness & Training – Self-Defense & Firearms
Most new shooters ask me the same question: “What gun should I buy?” It sounds simple, but the truth is—there’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer. Before choosing a firearm, you have to consider its purpose, where it will spend most of its time, and the physicality of the person using it.
But when beginners ask this question, they’re usually looking for their first handgun for self‑defense. And while it’s tempting to recommend a specific model, here’s the honest truth:
Your first gun should suck.
Not unsafe. Not unreliable. Just… not perfect.
Your first handgun shouldn’t be too big, too small, or overly specialized. It should be a well‑rounded tool that does one thing exceptionally well:
Repetition.
Your first gun is like your first car. It wasn’t your dream vehicle, but it got you from point A to point B and taught you how to drive. Your first firearm serves the same purpose—it’s a platform to learn on, grow with, and eventually outgrow as your skills develop.
What to Look for in a First Gun
Your first handgun should be simple, functional, and forgiving. It doesn’t need to excel in any one category—it just needs to help you build fundamentals.
1. Size
Choose something that fits your hands comfortably. Not a pocket pistol. Not a full‑size duty gun. Just something you can grip, control, and carry without a fight.
2. Caliber
Stick with common, affordable calibers such as:
- 9mm
- .38 Special
- .40 S&W
- .45 ACP
- .380 ACP
These calibers are easy to find and won’t drain your wallet while you’re learning.
3. Concealability
You should be able to conceal it with minor wardrobe adjustments. It doesn’t need to be the perfect EDC gun yet—just something you can carry.
4. Repetition
This is the big one. Your first gun must be:
- Reliable
- Affordable to shoot
- Comfortable enough to train with often
The goal is volume—lots of rounds, lots of reps, lots of learning.
Five Great First Guns (No Particular Order)
These firearms are reliable, versatile, and excellent for beginners:
- S&W M&P
- Walther PDP
- Canik TP9
- S&W 686
- CZ P10
They’re easy to shoot, have accessible ammunition, and help you build strong fundamentals.
Why You Should Avoid Specialized EDC Guns (For Now)
Many new shooters want to jump straight into micro‑compacts or ultra‑concealable pistols. Don’t.
Small guns have:
- Shorter sight radiuses
- Snappier recoil
- Less forgiving ergonomics
These factors make learning harder, not easier. Master the basics first—then choose your long‑term carry gun.
Key Features to Consider
Controls
You should be able to reach the slide release, magazine release, and other controls without shifting your grip.
Sights
Clear, easy‑to‑acquire sights are essential. If you can’t find your sights quickly, you’ll struggle under stress.
Safeties
If your gun has a manual safety:
- Train with it
- Sweep it off during the draw
- Engage it when re‑holstering
If it doesn’t have one, be extra cautious when holstering. Clothing can enter the trigger guard and cause a negligent discharge. You can never re‑holster too slowly.
Holstering
Always:
- Look the gun into the holster
- Clear your clothing
- Re‑holster deliberately and safely
Training: The Real Key to Self‑Defense
The most important thing you can do as a new gun owner is train consistently.
- Take a class
- Hit the range
- Practice dry fire
- Train with your holster and gear
Build good habits early. Develop muscle memory. Make safety second nature.
Your first gun doesn’t need to be fancy—it needs to be reliable, affordable, and capable of handling a lot of rounds while you build your foundation.
Tip: Keep your finger out of the trigger guard until you are ready to fire.
Shoot safe. Train often. Enjoy the journey.
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