""If you'd go for two, I'd suggest a .22 pistol like a buckmaster along with a larger caliber .45 automatic (I prefer one of the 1911 variants available out there).""
This is the combo I would suggest. Start with the 22
Well,
I like the Springfield XD and even more the XDM's....hope they have the .45 version out soon.
I know most of the armed forces (US) carry Beretta M9's...a good weapon, of course....but my outfit and a few others I know of have SiG Sauer handguns instead, M-11s. Pretty sure that's a P228 but not positive;
John P.
I think if you just accept the fact that you'll eventually get more than one handgun, it'll take some of the pressure off you for this decision.
The choice is largely a personal one.... there are so many options.
My random thoughts, FWIW.
1) A revolver would be a good first choice. Very reliable. S&W is a great choice.
2) Don't go too big. Lots of guys want a massive handgun for some reason. A medium frame is fine.
3) If your gun is locked in the safe, it's pretty worthless for home defense. So either accept that fact, or make it more accessible. They make small handgun safes that can be mounted in your bedroom, and can access within seconds.
...6) Shotguns are great for home defense, providing they are 12-gauge and loaded up with 00 buck shot....
Hi John, I remember when they were performing the trials to decide what the military issue sidearm would be. I remember because I was serving at this time. It was common knowledge at the time that most everyone preferred the sig 226, but the Beretta won out because of it's lower cost and the fact that the weapon had to be produced in the US. Beretta was in a better position to do this than Sig, so they won out.
I'm not saying that the M9 isn't a fine weapon, it's definitely proven itself in service..
Steve
If you buy the 5.7mm, you'll also be buying a reloading press before too long. It's pretty expensive, around $0.50/shot. In terms of terminal ballistics, I've heard mixed reviews. It's got a lot of energy, and it penetrates well. In fact, some say it penetrates a little too well and is prone to over-penetration. It's a good round, but it isn't something I would carry. There just really isn't enough info out about it yet.