Originally Posted By: Hokiefyd
I am considering getting a gun for basic home protection. Our neighborhood isn't really "dangerous", and there are few-to-no B&E reports around. But I'd like to have a gun for basic self-preservation.
I have never shot a gun in my life. Not that anyone in our family is against guns (dad has a few), but I just haven't had the ocassion to shoot one. So I'm an absolute rookie at this. I have a few basic questions.
1) I suppose I'm looking at a handgun/pistol here, and not something like a shotgun, right? Again, not looking to kill a bear, just basic self-defense.
2) In talking with others at work, I probably want something bigger than a .22, maybe something like a .357 or a 9mm. Folks have said that a .22 will barely sting to a crazed drugged intruder with adrenalin pumping.
3) Not having been a part of the gun world at all, is there risk in buying a used gun from a reputable gun store? I could tell anyone what to look for in looking at a used car, but know relatively little about guns, or what to look for.
Thanks in advance!
I bought a Walther PPQ 9mm today having tried other makes and calibers. It's comfortable to shoot with, to me at least and good for both target and home protection, as long as you select the correct ammunition for each application.