Pistols Tips Guide
The 3 major and basic things to consider for folks when selecting a firearm whether for self-defense or close protection should be:
Caliber - Accuracy - Reliability
Accuracy- Is a direct result of weapons training as well as the component you may most impact. Today's modern guns are extremely accurate straight from the maker. Accuracy just isn't attained throughout the gun but through the operator.
So you have to train, try this train, train to be accurate. Then along with training when you are within a stressful situation your almost certainly will not be as accurate when you are at the range. So train and train some more.
Caliber- I am a firm believer that many people should consider shooting the biggest caliber and heaviest load that also they can shoot accurately. Caliber has no affect if you're not able to shoot accurately and hit your target/threat.
I highly recommend nothing smaller then a 9mm, 9mm,.40,.45 are my favorite calibers. With these calibers you are provided stopping power. Accuracy should often be more important than caliber.
Reliability- Today's modern guns are built with good standards and are mostly reliable. Selecting a handgun manufacturer may be difficult at times. Do your research and select a manufacturer who is handguns will with stand up to the pressure of everyday use for training and practice.
The final thing you want is an unreliable handgun when you need it the most. So please review your handgun manufacturers and due your research. I have listed four very respectable gun manufacturers: