The begginers' handgun.......??

[IamJEEP]

I do not know anything about the gun so I cannot tell you if it is a good or bad weapon...

Your second question: Is a .40 cal better than a 9mm as far as accuracy and power? accuracy is solely dependent upon the shooter, a 9mm & 40 mm are exactly the same accuracy as each other, the question is can the shooter be accurate with both guns? to answer that she will have to shoot the guns. The 9mm will have far less recoil and therefore be faster to regain target and be more accurate for someone with little strength or experience.

As to power, the 40 is a much more powerful gun than the 9mm but compensation can be made by adjusting the type of ammo you leave in the gun. must people practice with cheap ammo and then carry with a different type depending on it's purpose. I carry with hollow-points but I do not waste money by shooting that for practice.

I agree that accuracy is up to the shooter but, it also depends on the gun, right? Is a 9mm bullet more "user" friendly than a .40 apc?

Also, wouldn't you want to practice shooting with the bullets you intend to use? I understand the $$$ side of using cheaper ammo to practice but, does the weapon react differently with different ammo?

[LWM]

I agree that accuracy is up to the shooter but, it also depends on the gun, right? Is a 9mm bullet more "user" friendly than a .40 apc?

Also, wouldn't you want to practice shooting with the bullets you intend to use? I understand the $$$ side of using cheaper ammo to practice but, does the weapon react differently with different ammo?

the 9mm has a lot less recoil so it is easier and faster to get back on target, if you are in a fight for your life staying on target is VERY important. A big bullet can do more damage but if you miss your target and they hit you before you get back on target then the larger ammo was a waste of your life.

I do practice with hollow-point but if you practice every month as you should you will find that you do not need to shoot 100 rounds of expensive ammo every month when the cheaper stuff will train you just as well. Then load up your protection ammo and feel safe.

[IamJEEP]

the 9mm has a lot less recoil so it is easier and faster to get back on target, if you are in a fight for your life staying on target is VERY important. A big bullet can do more damage but if you miss your target and they hit you before you get back on target then the larger ammo was a waste of your life.

I do practice with hollow-point but if you practice every month as you should you will find that you do not need to shoot 100 rounds of expensive ammo every month when the cheaper stuff will train you just as well. Then load up your protection ammo and feel safe.

I see what you are saying. I'll start her off with the 9mm and let her decide to "upgrade" to a bigger caliber when she feels ready and comfortable.
Thanks.

[LWM]

Any updates on your search for the perfect weapon?

[IamJEEP]

Any updates on your search for the perfect weapon?

Actually, I will be heading over to my local range today to find out about their ccw course and possibly set an appointment. Also, next weekend os the gun show at our fairgrounds. So, i will keep you guys updated ASAP.

So far it I'm looking at the Kimberly 1911, Ruger .45, and the M9. And, for an ankle piece my buddy has a Keltec .380 that he likes a lot.

PS- The HK line is nice also. Just gotta try and shoot them all to see which one "feels" right.

[LWM]

And, for an ankle piece my buddy has a Keltec .380 that he likes a lot.

This is a good emergency gun, but do not count on it for dependability or accuracy.

[IamJEEP]

This is a good emergency gun, but do not count on it for dependability or accuracy.

Exactly, He usually carries a Glock.

I stopped by the range today with my better half and spoke to one of the guys there, he was really cool and friendly. He basically gave her instructions on how to look for "her" gun and how each one functions, ect. The CCW certificate coarse runs $65+ tax and is all inclusive. Meaning: 1 hour of classroom basics, gun rental, ammunition 25 rounds, range rental, certificate fees, ect.... so, that's not a bad price I think. He did recomend we she takes a beginner's hand gun class that runs around $80 total. He suggested she starts with a .22 and work her way up as she feels more comfortable shooting. The best thing is she can get a discount at the range because she's considered a Federal Officer at her work. $5 range fee! WOOT! LOL.....

[brendon]

Sounds like you found decent pricing for training. What state are you in, IamJEEP?

Are you looking at the Ruger P90 (.45)? I have one of those, I like it, but haven't touched it since getting my 1911. Just about any 1911 will treat you well.

[IamJEEP]

I'm in South Florida.

I'm leaning towards the 1911s, but will try others to see which one we Like better.

Sounds like you found decent pricing for training. What state are you in, IamJEEP?

Are you looking at the Ruger P90 (.45)? I have one of those, I like it, but haven't touched it since getting my 1911. Just about any 1911 will treat you well.