Decide what you are going to be using the pistol for.
Is it going to have more than one job to do for you?
Do you need fixed or adjustable sights?
What is the best caliber or barrel length for the intended use?
Is the ammunition readily available from your local gun shop or sporting goods store, or will you have to go to a specialized store that may or may not have it in stock (I can shoot my .22 caliber for pennies a round while the ammunition for a .32-20 is closer to a dollar a round and much more difficult to find).
Speaking of money, just how much money are you willing to spend? Whatever you do, never sacrifice quality for economy. Look around and purchase the best quality you can find for the money.
Consider the simplicity of operation and the ease of cleaning. If it is going to take you 10 minutes to take the handgun apart for cleaning using special tools then you should probably consider something else.
The fit of the pistol to your hand is something that is often overlooked by novice handgun buyers. Think about your correct grip and how your index finger reaches and then touches the trigger.
Is the manufacturer readily known and do they offer a warranty? Most good manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on their handguns. They should have service centers in this country. Consider the firearm’s reputation among other shooters. I don’t mean that you should rush out and buy an H&K, Kimber, FNH, or an Ed Brown (which are all excellent firearms manufacturers) just because they are supposed to be “one of the best”. They may be the best for some people in some applications but they may not be the best for YOU.
Find a range or an instructor that has a lot of different rental pistols and shoot as many as you can.
Purchase your handgun from a reputable dealer. Someone who will take good care of you if there are problems or if you need simple advice.
There you have it. Do some research and take your time and you will have a good pistol that’s just right for you.
