Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge Thinking about buying a pistol

I have been an active shooter for over 50 years and I have reloaded all my ammo for the last 15 years. I own 8 handguns and 6 long guns. For self defense of my home and loved ones I feel more comfortable with a .38 S & W revolver.

1-Ease of use...point and pull the trigger
2-No safety to have to manupilate
3-If you have a bad bullet, pull the trigger again
4-cheap ammo
5-minimal recoil and muzzle blast
6-makes a good club when empty.

If you practice with grandads old .38 and get pretty good with it then you might get a smaller version like a Taurus 85 with a 2'' bbl or any of the smiths with a 2 or 3 inch barrell. They are all quality guns with excellent reliability and a .38 gets the job done if you put the round where it needs to go.

If you absolutely have have a semi auto then the Ruger SR 9 is an excellent choice. Easy to use and handle. Minimal extra junk to confuse you and in a 9 mm it is an excellent defensive round. In any case you must practice a lot. I am talking about shooting at least 50 rounds a week. You have to make usage of this weapon second nature to you.

I have a Taurus 1911 .45 ACP which I usually carry on a belt in the holster for all the world to see when I am riding. I practice every week at least 100 rounds to keep up my skills. I have utmost confidence in it and I know if I do my part it will perform. You do not have to go my route. It is my hobby and love and I enjoy it...you just want to protect you and yours so go buy some ammo for the old wheelgun, oil it up and shoot off a few hundred rounds. Don't forget goggles and earplugs.

Then join the NRA to protect you right to keep and bear arms. Take a class. Have fun.

Dan