Handgun Question

Discussion in 'Firearms' started by Catullus, Jan 23, 2011.


  1. Catullus

    Catullus Monkey+++

    Hi Everyone,

    After reading more on this forum I have decided to go ahead and get a handgun. My needs would be as follows:

    1. Something that is easy to find parts and ammunition especially in SHTF case
    2. Something I could put down my livestock with. (Goats, Pigs, etc...)

    I have some experience with guns but only my rifle and shotgun.

    Just wondering what you guys think.

    Thank you.
     
  2. kckndrgn

    kckndrgn Monkey+++ Moderator Emeritus Founding Member

    for number one, a Glock or 1911. Both have pretty much all parts that you can buy to repair or replace as needed. Get a caliber that you are comfortable shooting (1911 will more than likely be .45 though you can get other calibers, but then it's not a 1911 right?)

    For number 2, when growing up on a farm we always used a little snub nose .22lr revolver. Worked on Horses, sheep, pigs, etc.
     
  3. INRICK

    INRICK Monkey+

    sounds like a new army 44 cal cap and ball pistol would fit the bill.
     
  4. ghrit

    ghrit Bad company Administrator Founding Member

    For a beginner, I highly recommend a double action revolver in preference to an autofeeder. Maintenance is easy, parts are plentiful, and the manual of arms is "aim, squeeze" and go see what you hit.

    Ruger GP100. Practice with 38 spl, load 357 for business. The GP is suitable for medium to large hands.

    My nickle (0.02 inflated) YMMV. (But a 22 can put down livestock, and you can get a lot of practice in for short money.)
     
  5. Wolfgang2000

    Wolfgang2000 Monkey++

    You give your location as the "north country". When you are out and about do you have to worry about big critters? If so your caliber selection should reflect that.

    On average the suggestions of a Glock, (the 19 is my choice), or a Ruger GP100 in 357 mag are sound. However if you are going to face ON A REGULAR BASES large critters like moose or bears, you need something heaver like a 44 or 45 colt.

    Again I suggest that you try a couple different handguns and calibers to find out what you do the best with BEFORE YOU BUY.
     
  6. BTPost

    BTPost Stumpy Old Fart,Deadman Walking, Snow Monkey Moderator

    ANYONE who thinks ANY handgun, is adequate firepower, when confronting a Large grumpy Moose, or Brown Bear, needs to stay home and not venture into their country. It just is not So.... There are lots of FlatLanders, that use the "Bear Protection" excuse, to convince the "Little Woman" that they need a .44 Magnum for "Protection" on their Dream Alaska Fishing Trip. Well folks, unless you happen to be a World Class Handgun Shooter, your just blowing smoke. Take it from one who actually LIVES in Moose and Brown Bear Country, and has them as neighbors, a handgun isn't BIG enough, by far. If you want Large Predator Protection, spend your cash for a Pump Action Shotgun with an extended Magazine, and fill it with 00Buck, and Slugs, alternating. Then you will have adequate firepower, if you can hit your target inside 30 yds. If you can't, plan on getting munched, should your path cross a Grumpy Moose or Brownie.... It is just fortunate, for us humans, these animals don't really like to be in the same vicinity as us, most of the time..... .....
     
  7. Mountainman

    Mountainman Großes Mitglied Site Supporter+++

    Have to go with Ghrit's advice. A good quality 357 revolver would be the right thing for your needs. Would be a good idea to get someone to familiarize you with revolvers if you get one.
     
  8. Witch Doctor 01

    Witch Doctor 01 Mojo Maker

    i'd go with the .357 as well...
     
  9. BAT1

    BAT1 Cowboys know no fear

    A .357 revolver, or a Springfield Arms loaded Champion or Compact in .45. Rock Island also makes a great 1911.
     
  10. Wolfgang2000

    Wolfgang2000 Monkey++

    When I was going through orientation at Ft Richardson, (in 73) they advised carry a large bore handgun, and 357 wasn't considered large bore. Most carried 44 mags, I liked the 41 mag. I've seen both take out a Brownie. I do agree that 12 gage slugs are better, it just that the handgun is more convenient when fishing. Also the original question was about handguns.
     
  11. Disciple

    Disciple Monkey+

    Well if you are using this to kill livestock a decent revolver is the way to go but if your arouind alot of predators a good shotgun is what you need, learn to do some cowboy action shooting reloading exercises and you will get better and faster at reloading the shotgun. and most of all whatever gun you use get proficient with it.
    If you choose a revolver get you some speedloaders and get proficient at using the things, An Automatic keep a couple extra loaded mags with you, and get your off hand at least somewhat accurate so you can go with that hand also. I would suggest the revolver if your using around the farm there are not as many breakable parts as there are on an auto, and get a high quality gun don't buy a revolver just because its cheap.
     
  12. Catullus

    Catullus Monkey+++


    Thanks for all the information. Currently I have a Mossberg 12 guage and it is what I use for home protection and in the event a large animal such as a bear or moose wanders over. For varmit and critter control I have a mini-14.
    I want a handgun for convenience. I like the revolver style and think that is what I am going to go with first. Now to decide the caliber...
     
  13. fedorthedog

    fedorthedog Monkey+++

    If you go with something other that a 22 speed loaders are a great tool as stated above. If they are still available I found the Safri land comp 2 to be the fastest as they release on the extractor star once aligned and dont drop rounds when pulled form the pouch. The twist knob style were prone to releasing the rounds when you grabbed the knob.
     
  14. Seawolf1090

    Seawolf1090 Retired Curmudgeonly IT Monkey Founding Member

    Catullus - sounds like your are on the right track! Building a well-rounded array of firearms to deal with most any need that arises. No one gun can do it all.
     
  15. JadedGray

    JadedGray Monkey+

    A good S+W 686 .357 mag would fit the bill but also look into the Ruger Single Six .22/.22mag. It comes with two cylinders, .22 LR and .22 mag. Versatile and you can find cheap ammo relatively easy. A .22 magnum behind the ear of most farm animals (goats, pigs etc.) will dispatch them humanely.
    [​IMG]
     
  16. Lit 1911

    Lit 1911 Monkey+

    I have to vouch for my Springfield TRP.Yep,at $1500 it is expensive,but its about mid-grade price.Ive never had a malfunction,and .45 acp is pretty good handgun power.
     
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