If you are new to handguns, this guide will help you understand what to look for and why it matters. The focus is on reliability, simplicity, and cost-effective ways to get quality gear without wasting money.
Disclaimer: This article is not legal advice. Always consult your local laws and regulations regarding what firearms are legal and available in your area.
Start with a 9mm Polymer Striker-Fired Handgun
What is Polymer?
Polymer means the frame of the gun is made from high-strength plastic instead of metal. This makes the gun lighter, corrosion-resistant, and generally more affordable. Today, polymer-framed pistols are the standard for both concealed carry and duty use.
What is Striker-Fired?
Striker-fired pistols use an internal spring-loaded firing pin instead of an external hammer. This makes the pistol:
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Easier to learn (the trigger pull is consistent every time)
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Safer to carry (drop safeties are built in)
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Simpler to maintain (fewer moving parts to break)
Best First Handguns (Reliable and Concealable)
All of these are chambered in 9mm, striker-fired, polymer-framed, and widely available in optics-ready versions.
Glock Options
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Glock 45 – The gold standard for reliability. Double Stack.
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Glock 19 -- Mid-size, 15 rounds, works well for most people.
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Glock 43X MOS – Slimmer, easier to conceal, optics-ready, 10 rounds.
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Glock 48 MOS – Similar to the 43X but slightly longer slide and barrel for better accuracy and recoil control. Perfect for people with smaller hands who still want a full grip.
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Glock 26 – Subcompact “baby Glock” with a 10-round magazine. Accepts larger Glock mags if needed.
Sig Sauer Options
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Sig P365 – Compact, optics-ready, excellent trigger feel. Popular for everyday carry.
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Sig P365XL – Longer slide and grip than the P365, but still slim and concealable.
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Sig P320 Compact – Available everywhere, but has a history of drop-fire issues so not the top recommendation.
Smith & Wesson Options
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M&P Shield Plus – Slim, good capacity, budget-friendly.
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M&P 2.0 Compact – Full grip feel, optics-ready, solid build.
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M&P Shield EZ 9mm – Designed for shooters with smaller hands or reduced hand strength. Easy-to-rack slide and light recoil spring.
Springfield Armory Options
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Hellcat Pro – 15-round slimline pistol with optics-ready slide. Competes directly with the Glock 48 MOS.
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XD-S Mod.2 – Single-stack slim carry pistol. Good for shooters who prefer a narrow grip.
Walther Options
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Walther PDP F-Series – Specifically designed for shooters with smaller hands. Reduced grip circumference, shortened trigger reach, and lighter slide racking force.
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Walther PPS M2 – Slim, reliable single-stack option with excellent ergonomics.
Add a Compact Weapon Light
Being able to identify threats in low light is critical.
Recommended:
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Streamlight TLR-7 Sub – Fits Glock 43X/48 MOS, Sig P365, and other subcompacts. 500 lumens, durable, and adds minimal bulk.
Why add a light?
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Identify threats in the dark
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Improve grip and control
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Train realistically for real-world scenarios
Use a Quality Holster
The holster is as important as the firearm. A bad holster is unsafe.
Recommended:
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Alien Gear Photon – Works with most optics and lights, adjustable cant and retention, comfortable for everyday carry.
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Other solid choices: Tenicor, Tier 1 Concealed, PHLster
Consider an Optics-Ready Model
A red dot optic helps new shooters acquire their sight picture faster under stress. Look for models marked MOS (Glock), OR (Smith & Wesson), or ROMEOZero-ready (Sig).
Entry-level red dots:
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Holosun 407k/507k
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Shield RMSc
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Trijicon RMRcc (higher end option)
How to Save Money
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Police Trade-Ins – Glock 19s and M&Ps are often under $400.
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GSSF Membership – Join Glock Shooting Sports Foundation. A $75 membership gets you a $150 discount coupon once a year on select Glocks.
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Pawn Shops – In some states you can find good-condition used handguns below MSRP.
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Buy Once, Cry Once – A handgun is a defensive tool meant to save your life. Take the time to save and buy from a reputable manufacturer.
State-Specific Considerations
California – 10-round magazine limit. Must choose from the California Handgun Roster. Common options are Glock 19 Gen 3 or M&P Shield CA-compliant models.
New York – Magazine limit is 10 rounds. Long permit process varies by county. Expect several months from application to approval.
New Jersey – 10-round mag limit. Mandatory permit-to-purchase and Firearms ID. Hollow points only allowed in home defense.
Massachusetts – Requires a License to Carry (LTC). Must choose from MA-compliant list. Glock models must be Gen 3 or earlier.
Illinois – FOID card required before purchase. Separate training and permit required for concealed carry.
Hawaii – 10-round mag limit, long waiting period, mandatory registration, limited approved models.
Connecticut – Permit required to buy and carry. 10-round mag limit. Training course and background check required.
Washington, D.C. – Very limited handgun options. All firearms must be registered. Carry permits are difficult to obtain.
If you live in Houston, please consider joining us for a Basics class or a Dry Fire Class. Tools are important but training is what makes the difference.