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A firearm is a tool designed to deliver lethal energy to a target far away. This energy can be used to hunt wild game, put holes in targets, or stop a threat. Owning a firearm is a big responsibility. Owning a firearm for personal defense is even more so. There are many factors that go into choosing a gun to protect your family or self-defense. First, you must ask yourself if your capabilities allow for the use of deadly force to defend yourself. While it is obvious that no one wants to endanger another person’s life, the sad reality is that anyone could find themselves in a life-or death defensive situation.
According to a 2015 FBI crime investigation, firearms were used for 71.5 percent of murders, 40.8% of robberies and 24.2 percent in aggravated assaults. This shows that criminals have guns, and supports the old saying “Don’t bring a knife into a gunfight.” Gunowners.org estimates that law-abiding citizens use guns 2.5 million times a year to defend themselves against criminals. This means that firearms are used 80x more often to save lives than to take them. Before you buy a gun that could save your life, it is important to understand the risks associated with owning that gun.
Find the right gun for you
The most important thing to consider when purchasing a gun for self defense is what you will do with it. Remember that a gun is a tool just like a screwdriver, hammer, or drill. You can’t drill a hole in a nail using a drill bit. And you wouldn’t want a bazooka to defend yourself at the grocery store. You need to think about your needs and what this gun will do for you.
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A shotgun is a good choice if you’re looking for a gun to protect your home and family. It will be difficult to conceal a shotgun and may even be illegal in your state. A pistol is the best weapon for a defense situation outside your home, but it is also well-suited for your home. My first pistol, a Kahr pm9, was purchased when I was 21 years of age. I bought it with the intention of carrying it every day. I kept the gun on my nightstand every night, and it was used as a home defense weapon.
Semi-Automatic vs. Respiratory
Pistols are available in hundreds of sizes, finishes and calibers. Which is better, a semi-automatic or a revolver? This debate has been going on for over 100 years. Semi-automatic handguns can hold more rounds than a revolver and allow you to carry extra magazines which makes reloading quicker and easier. A semi-automatic gun can go wrong and render it useless until it is repaired. There have been malfunctions in revolvers, too. All you have to do is pull the trigger once more and the next round will fire. A revolver can be fired through clothing multiple times without becoming snagged or jammed. A semi-auto will only fire once, but it is more likely to become entangled in the fabric.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it really boils down to which one suits you best. Although it may sound corny, the gun doesn’t choose you. A gun that works well for your friend might not work for you. A gun that is too large will make it uncomfortable to carry and can affect your accuracy, draw stroke and ability to pull the trigger. You should feel the gun in your hand, and that you are able to reach all controls. Before you buy a gun for self defense, make sure to test out a few models. Many ranges offer gun rentals. Rent a few models to ensure that the gun is comfortable when firing.
There is such a thing as “Too Many Guns”
You must also remember to do your research. Many clients who took my concealed-carry class were unable to pull the trigger because of the heavy pull. I’ve also seen people shoot the gun and nearly blow their arm through the range’s back wall because it was too powerful. A little 76-year old woman weighed in at 95 pounds and was soaking wet, came to class with this Smith & Wesson Model 66 Combat Magnum. The price tag was attached to the trigger guard. She was even offered a few boxes Hornady Critical Defense.357 Mag ammunition by the gun shop moron, which she said she needed for class and to carry the gun once she had her permit.
She wanted to shoot the gun even though I tried to convince her to stop. Finally, she bought a Ruger SR9 which she loved and purchased later. This 76-year old woman, 95 lbs, was standing at the line ready for her shot with a magnum snub nose revolver in her hand. Instantly, my hand went up behind her shoulder to protect her and mine.
I wait for her fire. She lined up at the target. I looked down to see her trying to pull the trigger, her hands shaking like Jell-O. I realized that I didn’t have to worry about her arm as she wouldn’t be able to pull off the trigger. I handed the Ruger to her and took her gun. She was one of the best shooters that day. Do your research and ensure that the gun you purchase for self-defense is right for you.
Accessories for Firearms
Accessory items such as sights, grips and lights can all be added to or upgraded to guns. You can add accessories to your gun for self defense. Make sure that the gun you choose will accept the accessory. Sometimes, you can find the exact same gun with the accessory already installed from the factory. Don’t get too attached to specific brands. Trust me, I’ve seen them all fail at some point. We’ve had brand-new Smith & Wesson M&Ps fail to slide back, sights fall off Remington 1911s and Glock magazines crack. We also had a malfunction on our Kahr Kahr due a spring and the firing pin of a Kimber break off and hit the guy in his head.
These guns are great tools from great manufacturers. However, they can also break. All of these guns were covered by warranty and functioned perfectly afterward. Check the warranty of the manufacturer and the location of its factories. If you send a gun to be repaired, it might take some time to get it back.
You might consider buying a used gun
Don’t be afraid to buy used guns. A used gun can be a great bargain and can sometimes be as good, if not better, than a new gun. You should remember that a gun that looks used is likely to be used. My Kahr has been with me for 14 years. I carried it almost every day for 12 years before finally retiring it to buy a new Sig. The Kahr shows very little wear and tear. If a gun is extremely damaged, I would not recommend it. Although holster wear is normal for most guns, chips or scratches on the gun are a sign of abuse and neglect. To find the right tool for you, read reviews and try out a few guns.
Above All, Be a Safe & Responsible Gun Owner
You are taking on a huge responsibility by exercising your Second Amendment rights to own a gun. Remember the golden rules: Always treat every gun as if it were loaded; keep your gun pointed in a safe and precise direction; be certain of your target; and don’t touch the trigger until you are ready. It is your responsibility to ensure that your firearm is always accessible and safe.
To ensure you are on the right side, learn about your state’s concealed carry edicts and other gun laws. Avoid confrontations with your gun. It is a last resort tool. You don’t have to be a hero just because you carry a gun. Be alert, be aware of your surroundings, and carry a gun every day. Keep Reading
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The post How to Choose a Gun for Self-Defense appeared originally on Personal Defense World.
