How to buy a semi-automatic handgun

Town Hall ^ | 5 July 2006 | Mike Adams

[MineralMan]

"Ruger 10/22 ????(it's a rifle).... maybe he meant 22/45

"

I missed that. This guy's no expert, obviously.

[ANGGAPO]

When you go to a gun fight always take a big gun.

[IndyTiger]

The perfect CCW (at least for me) is the S&W 642 j-frame revolver loaded with 38 spl. +P. Weighs only 15 oz. unloaded, and fits easily in a pocket holster.

[TexasRepublic]

Any caliber that begins with a "4" is a good start. I bought a Les Baer 1911 Thunder Ranch in .45ACP in hard chrome finish for serious work. Beginners really ought to consider a revolver for their first pistol.

[Eastbound]

Glock G-36, .45, extended mag and belt clip. Handy Dandy.
When something has to be absolutely, positively put down.
Don't leave home without it.

[baal2006]

Perhaps Mike needs to try a circa 1832 musket. These weapons were used to great effect in the massacres of Mormons in the mid 1800's. A job Mr. Adams obviously desires to continue today.

[mcshot]

Thanks for the link. Good info.
A .45acp Glock carrier.

[redfog]

The S&W website mentions three distinct hammer styles: the "Chiefs Special" with exposed hammer, the "Centennial" frame with fully enclosed hammer and the "Bodyguard" frame (.38 S&W Special +P only) shrouded hammer.

Do you have preference? If so, which one and why? Or is the j-frame you mention essentially the "Bodyguard" frame?

[aCDNinUSA]

Thanks for the info!

[aCDNinUSA]

Thanks for your post Larry. I have hunted in Canada since I was 14 and have now been hunting for almost 25 years. I have been in the US for 8 years now, but have never attempted to purchase a gun because of not knowing the laws. I sold my rifles before I moved to the US, but am keen on buying a hand gun or some other gun for self protection for my home. When I go to Canada I simply use my Dad's shotgun during the deer hunt.

[IndyTiger]

The 642 is a Centennial frame with fully enclosed hammer. I like the fully enclosed hammer style best for pocket carry because of less concerns with snagging on clothing or pinching. An Uncle Mike's pocket holster works great with the 642.

[Ghengis]

With the exception of the .380, none of these weapons are suitable for concealed carry. They're all too big.

I have carried daily either a Ruger Security-Six (4" barrel), Ruger P-90 4 5/8" barrel), S&W 64 (3" barrel) and a SA XD-9 9 (4" barrel). I have no problems with concealed carry with these models. You need to pick your clothes and holsters accordingly.

[ASA Vet]

the clip magazine holds 10

[ASA Vet]

Perhaps the nomenclature has changed somehow in my lifetime

No, but the misuse of the nomenclature has likely increased.