So you've got determined to purchase a handgun. But what's next? Opposite to what some people declare, you may't just walk right into a store and purchase a gun as simply as you can get bread or milk — however even when you may, there are still good reasons to take your time and think careabsolutely throughout the process.

Why Do You Need a Handgun?

The first query you must reply is "Why do I want a handgun?" Most people have one in every of three solutions: for self-protection, for leisure shooting or for hunting. Most handguns are designed primarily for certainly one of these makes use of, and when you purchase one ill-suited to your wants, you'll likely have a disappointing experience.

Self-protection handguns typically have good stopping energy (more on calibers a bit later), streamlined controls and either a high capacity or good concealability. Sporting handguns are usually small-caliber, affordable and mechanically easy, although organized shooting sport leagues can require all manner of handguns. Hunting handguns are generally heavy, giant-caliber revolvers that require confidence and expertise to handle correctly.

If you take a while to get really clear on why you need a handgun and what you need it to do for you, the research and shopping phases will be more productive and enjoyable, and you will be more happy with your buy within the long run.

Know the Law

If you happen to live within the U.S., you must know and abide by federal, state and county firearm laws. In cases the place laws from different jurisdictions contradict each other, the stricter law applies.

The first step in changing into a accountable handgun owner is to grow to be totally familiar with these laws. Internet research is an effective place to start, however it's greatest to cross-reference everything you find in opposition to a number of other sources to ensure the information is accurate. Finally, we recommend checking with your native police department or sheriff's office. They may also help you make sure that you understand the law, and most will provide concise pamphlets or web pages that you could reference later.

Sure federal laws are fairly fundamental and apply to all gun owners in all states. To be able to buy a handgun legally, you need to:

Not have a criminal record, with certain limited exceptions

Pass a strict background check (when you're buying a gun from a licensed firearm vendor; private sellers aren't required to conduct background checks on buyers, but most do anyway)

Not suffer from sure mental illnesses that will impair your judgment

Not have undergone treatment for drug or alcohol addiction within the last five years

Be a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant

Be at least 18 if shopping for from a private seller or 21 if buying from a licensed seller (note that in most (if not all) states, the minimum age to carry a handgun in public is 21. Also, there isn't a federal age restriction concerning rifle or shotgun ownership.)

Federal firearm laws do not mandate any particular licensing or training, although many state laws do. Few states require licensing or training in order merely to own a handgun, though most require some form of license or permit with a view to carry one in public. Some state laws further distinguish between open and concealed carry, and may require licensing for one but not the other.

A small number of states (notably New York and California) will not situation permits to hold a handgun in public unless you can show proof of a credible menace towards your life or property. Though it is authorized to carry a handgun in such places in very limited circumstances, for most individuals, it's effectively illegal.

You should definitely acquire any licenses or permits you will need earlier than you go shopping in your first handgun.

Hid Carry

If you plan to buy a handgun for hid carry, know that there are just a few totally different sets of laws that change by state. Also, you'll want to read our guide on how to decide on a hid carry handgun for more information.

Constitutional Carry (or Unrestricted)

This is essentially the most permissive concealed carry paradigm. If you happen to can legally own the handgun, you possibly can legally conceal it in public, no license or permit required. Nevertheless, acquiring a license may confer additional privileges. For example, in Arizona, you could carry wherever without a permit, besides in bars or restaurants that serve alcohol. Acquiring a CCW license means that you can carry in those places as well, with the owner's consent. Note that a CCW permit would not override property rights; business owners are free to prohibit weapons on their property for any reason, in the event that they so choose.

Shall-Subject

"Shall-problem" jurisdictions are these in which the sheriff or other relevant creatority will concern CCW permits to anybody who applies for one, barring those who fail to satisfy primary eligibility criteria.

May-Issue

In these places, you may or might not receive a permit when you apply for one. The government agency that makes these selections does so on a case-by-case foundation and may or may not use objective criteria.

No-Difficulty

The most restrictive states effectively do not enable civilians to hold at all. Native sheriffs may difficulty a really small number of permits (usually to their friends and allies), but average citizens should not depend on getting one.

Choosing the Right Handgun for You

Once you know the law and have a solid understanding of what you wish to accomplish by owning a handgun, you're ready to start researching particular models.

The question of whether or not to buy a revolver or a semi-automated handgun is asked by 1000's of individuals each day. Unfortunately, it's often framed poorly. The query will not be "Which is healthier?" however "Which is best for me?" Neither is inherently superior, so it's important to make the choice with respect to your needs (which aren't exactly the identical as anyone else's needs).

Revolvers

In case you're a model-new shooter and you aren't yet assured in your ability to handle a handgun safely, a revolver could also be a great choice. Revolvers are simpler than semi-autos. They have fewer moving parts, so that they malfunction less often, and it's simpler to focus on safety and primary shooting fundamentals while you're first learning to handle a handgun. You may additionally need to choose a revolver if you're on a good price range, because they are usually less expensive.

Revolver drawbacks include low ammunition capacity, sluggish reloads and somewhat limited customization options compared to semi-automatics. They make excellent backup weapons for individuals who carry a semi-auto as their major self-protection weapon. If you choose to carry a revolver as your major or only protection gun, you may must train well and often to mitigate its tactical weaknesses.

Semi-Computerized

Semi-automatic handguns are a little harder to make use of, however they're still perfectly manageable with a bit of practice and patience. With higher ammunition capacities, faster reloads and higher ergonomics, semi-automatics usually make higher self and residential-defense handguns. There are also more calibers to choose from, as well as a higher range of accessories and custom parts.

On the downside, high-quality semi-automatic pistols tend to value more than similarly well-made revolvers. They're also more prone than revolvers to malfunctions (though this is far less of a problem immediately than it was twenty years ago). High-end semi-automatics made by reputable manufacturers hardly ever malfunction, if ever. Glock and Heckler & Koch firearms have particularly high quality control standards and are exceptionally reliable.

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