New to gun ownership! (suggestions welcome)

[Dave MP]

Dave,

Thanks for the warm welcome! Super cool website that you are a part of running, so thank you for that as well. I'll make sure to check all these out as there seems to be a lot for a novice like me to learn. Looking forward to seeing you around!

Not my website. The info I post is intended to help new members get a lay of the forum. Enjoy!

 

[Moonlighter]

Hey Moonlighter!

Thanks for collecting all that info! If I may, how has your experience been on gunbroker, if you have used it? I know that you can't attest with certainty how it would go down if I was to purchase something on it, but if I was to buy from a seemingly trusted seller what would you say? TBH I'm not against ordering for a little more directly from the manufacturer just cause... warranty I guess? Although I have no idea what I'm talking about so there is always that.

I've been going on and off about the idea of buying used but then again the firearm would be worn in which could be a benefit I guess? Do you have any recommendations from your own experiences on good places to look for a used firearm? To your point about REALLY liking the 1911... pretty sure I fall into that category. That said, could always be the next purchase.

Thanks for all your help once again!

Gunbroker has been mostly good for me, I've sold an AR and bought several firearms. I did win an ammo auction last year for some .45ACP, mailed the seller a USPS money order, and then he went silent on me. Didn't cash it but wasn't responding. Finally reported the money order as lost and got my money back but it was a major hassle. Just make sure your seller has a good feedback rating. Gunbroker support is non-existent, IMO.
The plus of buying from your local gun shop is dealer support and developing a relationship with them. You get to see and handle the firearm before purchasing and you get their input and advice. You'll usually pay $100-$200 over what the same firearm would sell for online, depending on what firearm you're buying.
I have a couple of Ruger revolvers and absolutely love shooting them. They do appear to be well made and I would highly recommend them.
Most local gun shops sell used guns on consignment so you should have a lot of options there. There are many IP's on here that post threads with their used inventory so look for that.
Figure out which firearms interest you and go shoot them at the range. The beauty there is you don't have to clean them afterwards! After you pick what you want to buy, check gunbroker and your local stores to see what the new and used prices are. Easy peasy.

Edit: If you're looking for an incredibly reliable handgun that shoots really well but is ugly as fvck, get a Glock in whatever caliber you choose. I have a G17 that I added TruGlo fiber optic sights to and an aftermarket trigger, can't remember which one though.

 

[remrug]

A 45 has quite a bit of recoil,maybe too much for a beginner.
Might want to shoot a couple of different calibers before buying your first handgun

 

[boothdoc]

boothdoc,

Thank you for the reply! I hear you on that; I'll definitely take you advice to the heart.

It be like teiping in hte interment befour me doong sum lurnng of Englush.
It cen b painfool sumteems

 

[Threeband]

You might also try out a Browning Hi Power, or perhaps Springfield's new clone of that classic 9mm.

 

[R45]

A 45 has quite a bit of recoil,maybe too much for a beginner.
Might want to shoot a couple of different calibers before buying your first handgun

remrug,

Thank you for the reply! Yes I think you give sound advice; I'm going out to the range in the next couple days to see what feels best!

Hope you have a great weekend.

 

[R45]

You might also try out a Browning Hi Power, or perhaps Springfield's new clone of that classic 9mm.

Threeband,

I haven't heard of your suggestions before, I'll definitely look into them thank you so much!

Hope you have a great weekend.

 

[R45]

Not my website. The info I post is intended to help new members get a lay of the forum. Enjoy!

Dave,

Oh ha! My bad, let me know when moderator elections run and you have my vote!

 

[SkiPatrolDude]

Springfield makes solid 1911's.

You'll be fine with either, but my suggestion would be the 9mm simply because you'll be able to buy more ammo. Range time is very important.

Plus modern 9mm hollow point loadings are very effective in defensive situations, so the gap between a 45 and a 9mm is much smaller than it used to be.

My suggestion would be to opt for a 1911 with a rail so you can add a pistol light to it when stored for home defense. I believe many Springfield 1911's have this, but I am sure they make a few models that don't.

 

[R45]

Gunbroker has been mostly good for me, I've sold an AR and bought several firearms. I did win an ammo auction last year for some .45ACP, mailed the seller a USPS money order, and then he went silent on me. Didn't cash it but wasn't responding. Finally reported the money order as lost and got my money back but it was a major hassle. Just make sure your seller has a good feedback rating. Gunbroker support is non-existent, IMO.
The plus of buying from your local gun shop is dealer support and developing a relationship with them. You get to see and handle the firearm before purchasing and you get their input and advice. You'll usually pay $100-$200 over what the same firearm would sell for online, depending on what firearm you're buying.
I have a couple of Ruger revolvers and absolutely love shooting them. They do appear to be well made and I would highly recommend them.
Most local gun shops sell used guns on consignment so you should have a lot of options there. There are many IP's on here that post threads with their used inventory so look for that.
Figure out which firearms interest you and go shoot them at the range. The beauty there is you don't have to clean them afterwards! After you pick what you want to buy, check gunbroker and your local stores to see what the new and used prices are. Easy peasy.

Edit: If you're looking for an incredibly reliable handgun that shoots really well but is ugly as fvck, get a Glock in whatever caliber you choose. I have a G17 that I added TruGlo fiber optic sights to and an aftermarket trigger, can't remember which one though.

Moonlighter,

Happy Saturday! HA, yeah I feel the same way about glocks. I'll certainly not sleep on them as an option though, so thank you for the recommendation. Thanks for your feedback about gunbroker, I've heard similar things about the customer support. Glad you were able to resolve the money order but what a bummer that it took a ton of work. Good to hear that the higher dollar value results in some positive when buying local. I had the same thought with the appeal on developing a relationship.

I'll definitely check out and compare all the options, thanks again for all your help! I'll post a reply to the thread or something on what I end up getting. This was a community effort!

 

[R45]

Springfield makes solid 1911's.

You'll be fine with either, but my suggestion would be the 9mm simply because you'll be able to buy more ammo. Range time is very important.

Plus modern 9mm hollow point loadings are very effective in defensive situations, so the gap between a 45 and a 9mm is much smaller than it used to be.

My suggestion would be to opt for a 1911 with a rail so you can add a pistol light to it when stored for home defense. I believe many Springfield 1911's have this, but I am sure they make a few models that don't.

SkiPatrolDude,

Thanks for the reply. Good to hear that the 9mm and 45 gap isn't super huge anymore (with quality ammo I'm sure). I'll certainly ensure I get a 1911 with railing if that's what I settle with. Thank you for that important consideration.

Have a great weekend!

 

[R45]

It be like teiping in hte interment befour me doong sum lurnng of Englush.
It cen b painfool sumteems

HA. I'll ensure to avoid that Good point!

 

[Mike OTDP]

One question that has not been mentioned is whether or not you intend to reload. .45 ACP is often easier to reload than 9mm.

 

[BurkeM]

Hello!

I moved to Maryland a year ago from the west coast and am loving it here. I haven't mingled a ton with the gun community and am eager to join any clubs that are looking for members.


Welcome to Baltimore!

I’d suggest starting by joining Maryland Shall Issue, for $25 per year.

Join All Membership - Maryland Shall Issue®, Inc.

Maryland Shall Issue® (MSI) is an all-volunteer, non-partisan organization dedicated to the preservation and advancement of gun owners' rights in Maryland. It seeks to educate the community about the right of self-protection, the safe handling of firearms, and the responsibility that goes with...

www.marylandshallissue.org

As a Member of MSI, you’ll also be eligible to come out to the best outdoor range in the region. Buy a range badge for $125 and shoot any day of the next 8 months (except Thanksgiving after 2, Christmas and New Year’s Day).

Home - Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Check the AGC Calendar for Range Events!!! ACTIVITIES/EVENTS A pleasant, park-like atmosphere to safely shoot Air Pellet Pistol & Rifle, Handgun, Smallbore, Benchrest & High-Power Rifle, Trap and Archery. LEARN MORE RANGES/FACILITIES Our ranges are

agcrange.org

While you decide about that, visit some of the other FFL’s with ranges mentioned before, rent a few different handguns and try them out before buying.

Enjoy the shopping adventure.

Next, get the 16 hour handgun permit training and apply for your wear & carry permit for Maryland.

 

[Lostfantum]

Welcome aboard

 

[R45]

One question that has not been mentioned is whether or not you intend to reload. .45 ACP is often easier to reload than 9mm.

Hey Mike!

I had no idea that a 45 is easier to reload prior to your reply; thank you! I'm heading to a range tomorrow so I'll make sure to take notice of this. I appreciate it greatly!

Wishing you a great start to your week.

 

[R45]

I’d suggest starting by joining Maryland Shall Issue, for $25 per year.

Join All Membership - Maryland Shall Issue®, Inc.

Maryland Shall Issue® (MSI) is an all-volunteer, non-partisan organization dedicated to the preservation and advancement of gun owners' rights in Maryland. It seeks to educate the community about the right of self-protection, the safe handling of firearms, and the responsibility that goes with...

www.marylandshallissue.org

As a Member of MSI, you’ll also be eligible to come out to the best outdoor range in the region. Buy a range badge for $125 and shoot any day of the next 8 months (except Thanksgiving after 2, Christmas and New Year’s Day).

Home - Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Check the AGC Calendar for Range Events!!! ACTIVITIES/EVENTS A pleasant, park-like atmosphere to safely shoot Air Pellet Pistol & Rifle, Handgun, Smallbore, Benchrest & High-Power Rifle, Trap and Archery. LEARN MORE RANGES/FACILITIES Our ranges are

agcrange.org

While you decide about that, visit some of the other FFL’s with ranges mentioned before, rent a few different handguns and try them out before buying.

Enjoy the shopping adventure.

Next, get the 16 hour handgun permit training and apply for your wear & carry permit for Maryland.

BurkeM,

Thank you so much for all the helpful information! I'm enthused to hear about the MSI and definitely will look into membership. Do you have any recommendation for a wear and carry permit course? I appreciate all your insight!

Wishing you a great start to your week.

 

[R45]

Welcome aboard

Lostfantum,

Thank you! Really pleased to be a part of the community. See you around!

 

[Sirex]

Welcome to MDS. I hope you enjoy it here.

I, would get a 9mm handgun for home defense and the 45 1911 second. I would get a modular 9mm that you can swap a .22 slide on for cheap practice and plinking, like a Glock, Sig, or CZ. Or get an airsoft version of whatever real gun you get to familiarize yourself with and practice around the house. I got a CZ75 in 9mm, a .22 Kadet kit, and an airsoft version for playing with in the basement. I also have a 45 for fun or potential home defense. Just my opinion based on cost/capacity.

 

[Threeband]

Hey Mike!

I had no idea that a 45 is easier to reload prior to your reply; thank you! I'm heading to a range tomorrow so I'll make sure to take notice of this. I appreciate it greatly!

Wishing you a great start to your week.

He's not talking about loading cartridges into magazines. He's talking about reloading the empty cases with new primers, powder, and projectiles: remanufacturing the cartridges to save money.