Have some questions about a Handgun. Talk to me like I am a child

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academy

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Bought several guns from them. They are identical to anywhere else just alittle cheaper sometime.

Do your own research and then go buy from Academy. Sounds like you are probably just looking for something to protect you and your family so you don't need something specialized.

Glock 19 or 19x

Affordable, reliable, no gun store clerk knowledge needed

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Just about everyone in my family owns multiple guns except for myself.

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I recommend you try out as many guns as your friends and family have that you can to see what's comfortable to you and go from there. Everyone has their opinions on what they like, and it might be great guns, but there may be something about them you don't like when you try them. A gun at academy is the same gun from Jim's or Heberts's or whatever gun store, just a lower price. But academy won't have as large a selection.

Go to a gun range and rent out a few handguns to try. This is a good first step. You’ll meet knowledgeable people behind the counter and they can make recommendations for pistols based upon what you tell them and can even recommend a self-defense instructor or concealed carry class.

If looking for concealing, do you want a single stacked or double stacked gun? Size matters here when concealing because if the gun you choose (and holster) are not comfortable, you’re likely not to wear it.

For home defense, a full size pistol could make sense. Heavier, longer barrel, and not snappy when compared to lighter, shorter barrel and snappier concealed pistols.

Brands that I am partial to or have read (and watched) plenty of favorable reviews: CZ, Walther, Springfield, H&K, and Kimber.

My only problem with Academy is that they won't remove the trigger lock so you can feel how the gun grips. There's no way I'm buying a gun without at least seeing how it feels in my hand. But if you find one that you like (preferably by renting or borrowing one to actually shoot) and Academy has the best price, buy from Academy.

As many have already said, the guns at academy are the same at anywhere else. You will probably find some higher end brands at the gun stores that will be more expensive, but the standard guns at academy will do as good as any.

For a first gun I always recommend the Glock 19 or 17. It's just a good starting point for anybody wanting a gun. Are there better guns out there, sure. But the glock just works. If you're not a glock fan or it doesnt fit your hand then I would go HK VP9 or S&W M&P 2.0.

For a caliber, stay with 9mm. Don't let somebody talk you into a 45 or 40 because of "stopping power". The 9mm will do it's job just fine and the ammo is more plentiful in this political climate.

I wouldn't listen to a word anybody says at a big box store like academy or bass pro. Just because they work at the gun counter does not make them experts. Go to one of your local stores that deals with guns and ammo all day. They usually will have some knowledgeable guys there that know what they are talking about.

If you let us know where you are located we can point you to the right place. If you're in SELA I would recommend Bowies in BR or Interstate Guns in Hammond.

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Glock 19 or 19x

Affordable, reliable, no gun store clerk knowledge needed

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It's the best selling hand gun in America(maybe the world) for a reason. Can't go wrong with it.

Stick with some variation of full sized 9mm. The market is saturated with great options so avoid being steered to be overly brand-loyal. For example, I love Smith and Wesson handguns and shoot them well but realize most of the populace shoots Glocks.

Do not buy a tiny gun as your first gun. Learn on a full size first.

Source: CC instructor and have been teaching for 8 years