How fit and feel go a long way in selecting a handgun.
So you're looking for a new handgun and are not sure where to start? Have you been told the "you gotta get a Glock"? Have you been told that the 9mm is the best choice? Or was that the .45ACP? Well, the brand selection and caliber debate will continue for a long time. Likely never end. Putting caliber and brand aside, let's look at the considerations of selecting a handgun.
Purchasing a firearm based on or because someone told you to get that particular one is like them telling you what car to buy. Wouldn't you want to sit in it? Test drive it? Feel it? Do the same with a firearm.
There are many things to consider when searching for your handgun. The first thing to consider is the reliability of it going "bang" when the trigger is pulled (and yes, the trigger must be pulled/ manipulated in order to fire the cartridge). The second consideration is accuracy of the firearm (not you... not yet and not without a lot of practice) with the ammunition of choice. Then there is the cost of the firearm (we all have budgets, but you really do "get-what-you-pay-for" and it is usually inverse to the reliability and accuracy of the firearm).
So I need to spend more?
Not necessarily. Since most major manufacturers produce reliable, accurate handguns (some better than others) that all have similar costs when compared to similar product lines, the difference comes down to you.
Ergonomic fit is the key to finding the best handgun for you. The handgun you select should fit in your hand like it was made to be there. There shouldn't be a doubt in your mind. You shouldn't say, " I like it but" or "it feels good but". When you take your grip and stance with the handgun, it should feel great, comfortable and balanced (a little front heavy is okay with an empty magazine or cylinder). Not like it will slip or feels too "pokey" (yes someone said that), or too big or small.
Consider this: If you don't like how it feels in your hand or have a hard time holding onto it, you won't want to shoot it. You won't practice with it, and no matter how many times you go to the range, you won't shoot enough with it. You won't become comfortable with it, familiar with it, or accurate with it. Then, when you really need it, you will fail with it.
The handgun that fits your ergonomically will be the one you want to hold and grip. It will be the one that you want to shoot all the time. If you shoot it all the time, it means that you're practicing all the time. Which, hopefully, will mean that you are getting better and more accurate, thus more effective.
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