There are many factors to consider when purchasing a handgun, specifically pistols of which there are many types and models. For starters, you should have a clear idea of which size is going to suit you best – a compact, sub-compact, or a regular pistol. Choosing a large pistol is usually recommended for better accuracy and greater range while smaller ones can be the ideal choice if you need to carry the weapon in a handbag or in your pocket. While it is true that regular-sized pistols can be more accurate than smaller handguns because of their balanced weight and fit, it is harder to conceal carry them on your person. Sometimes, their extra weight can make it difficult to aim and maneuver as well. At the same time, smaller pistols are perfect for concealed carry and can offer decent performance in times of need.
If you’re stuck or confused in trying to choose the right size for your needs, the analysis provided below should help to clear up some of the common myths regarding small handguns. Hopefully, this article will assist you in making the best decision before your purchase.
- Small Pistols Do Not Have Any Recoil – All guns have recoil; small pistols are no exception to this rule. In fact, the recoil can sometimes feel more forceful than what you would experience with a regular size pistol. It does, however, depend on the user’s maneuvering technique while firing the shot.
- Small Pistols Make Aiming Easy – This, again, depends on the person using the handgun. Small pistols with their shorter sight plane can reduce their accuracy. Additionally, almost all smaller handguns have a reduced range when compared to larger pistols. This means that you may not be able to hit your target if it is at a distance beyond the range of the gun. Nonetheless, smaller pistols are always reliable when shooting at close ranges.
- Small Pistols are More Suited to Combat – Some people think that smaller pistols are specifically designed for combat purposes. That is not always true, however. Although smaller handguns are easier to handle and carry on your person, they do not have the power and accuracy needed in an intensive firefight scenario. In such cases, larger pistols are better since they can offer a greater range and more power when trying to lock on to targets.
Understanding the Basics before Buying
While some people find larger handguns easier to hold and handle, there are many more who are more comfortable with even the smallest pistols available on the market. Therefore, it is recommended to understand the basic design and functions of the gun before making the purchase. It would also be advantageous to find a retailer with whom you can handle the gun and see if it’s a good fit for your hand size. For instance, where the reduced profile of small handguns makes concealed carry effortless, you might want something that is simple to load, point, and shoot, like a revolver. That is why experts advise considering your personal needs first and coming to your own conclusion.
Pistols are meant for self-defense, so consider things like whether you would want to carry it with you all the time or whether you are planning to keep it in the home. Moreover, think of the situations where you might have to point the gun at someone – do you need it just to frighten an attacker or are you going to have to be sure of its power in a tense situation? Reflecting on such factors will make it easy for you to decide the size and type of handgun you require.
You should also have a clear idea about your shooting abilities; try a few handguns at a shooting range to see how well you can handle them and how comfortable you are with the models available on the market. You can then shortlist a few handgun types based on your own experience. Some experts say that it is better to try lighter guns if you have a small build because height plays a great role in aiming and managing pistols. Yet again, you can tune your precision shooting skills with practice.
Remember that caliber size matters quite a bit when choosing a small handgun. Each type of caliber has its own pros and cons, so you should find the ideal one for your needs rather than going with the most common denominator. Smaller calibers are best suited for people who are new to firearms and shooting, as these have relatively less recoil and allow more accurate and faster follow-up shots. At the same time, larger calibers tend to have more energy and force and are capable of inflicting more damage to your target. Still, larger calibers can make it harder to fire multiple shots quickly.