Choosing your first handgun is a big deal, and honestly, it can feel a little overwhelming. With so many brands, calibers, and features, it’s easy to get lost. The key is to focus on a few simple things: reliability, ease of use, and comfort. A good beginner handgun should build your confidence, not intimidate you. We’re here to help you find the right fit for your needs, whether it’s for home defense, target shooting, or eventual concealed carry.
In this guide, we’ll look at some of the most popular and highly recommended options for new shooters. We’ve considered factors like manageable recoil, simple controls, and overall value. Remember, the best way to know if a gun is right for you is to try it out at a local range if possible. Let’s get started with our list of the best handguns for beginners to help you make a smart first purchase.
Our Top Picks for the Best Handguns for Beginners
- Glock 19 Gen 5 9mm
- Smith & Wesson M&P 9 M2.0 Compact
- Taurus G3C 9mm Pistol
- Springfield Armory XD-M Elite Compact OSP 9mm
- Walther PDP F-Series 9mm
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ 9mm
- Ruger Security-9 Compact 9mm
Glock 19 Gen 5 9mm
The Glock 19 is often called the “gold standard” for a reason. It’s the perfect all-around handgun, balancing size, capacity, and reliability in a way few others can. As a beginner, you might hear this name more than any other, and there’s a good argument for starting with a Glock 19. It’s simple to operate with a consistent trigger pull and minimal controls—just a trigger safety, a drop safety, and a slide stop lever. This simplicity means less to think about when you’re learning.
Its reputation for being utterly reliable is well-earned; it will go bang every time you pull the trigger. The 9mm chambering is affordable to practice with, and the recoil is very manageable. The Gen 5 model has improvements like a flared magwell for faster reloads and a marksman barrel for better accuracy. While it’s a compact size, it’s still large enough to shoot comfortably at the range, and it’s the most popular concealed carry gun in the world. Buying a Glock 19 is almost never a wrong choice.
Pros
- Legendary reliability and durability
- Perfect size for home defense and concealed carry
- Huge aftermarket support for holsters and accessories
Cons
- The grip angle can feel odd to some shooters at first
- Stock sights are fairly basic plastic
Smith & Wesson M&P 9 M2.0 Compact
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 M2.0 Compact is a direct and strong competitor to the Glock 19. What sets it apart for many shooters is its ergonomics. The grip is aggressively textured, which means it sticks in your hand very securely, and it comes with interchangeable palm swell inserts so you can customize the fit. The M2.0 series also features a crisp, clean-breaking trigger that is a significant improvement over older models. It’s a pistol that feels like it was made to fit your hand.
It’s built to be a rugged, dependable tool for both range use and defensive situations. The slide has deep front and rear serrations, making it easy to grip and rack from any angle. Like the Glock, it has a huge selection of holsters and accessories available. If you hold a Glock 19 and an M&P 2.0 Compact side-by-side, the choice often comes down to which one feels more natural in your grip. For many, the Smith & Wesson wins that contest.
Pros
- Superior ergonomics and aggressive grip texture
- Excellent trigger right out of the box
- Very accurate and reliable
Cons
- The aggressive grip texture can be rough on bare skin when carrying
- Slightly heavier than some polymer competitors
Taurus G3C 9mm Pistol
The Taurus G3C is proof that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a reliable, feature-packed handgun. This compact pistol offers an incredible amount for its price point. It has a 12-round capacity, which is excellent for a gun of its size, and it comes with three magazines in the box—something most manufacturers don’t do even with more expensive models. It also features a manual safety, a loaded chamber indicator, and a accessory rail for a light.
In recent years, Taurus has really stepped up its quality control, and the G3C has a strong reputation for being a dependable shooter. The trigger is surprisingly good for a budget pistol, and the sights are metal and drift-adjustable. For a beginner who is budget-conscious but doesn’t want to compromise on capacity or features, the G3C is a very smart choice. It allows you to get a quality firearm and have money left over for ammunition and training, which is just as important.
Pros
- Exceptional value, includes three magazines
- Good trigger and sights for the price
- Solid reliability and good ergonomics
Cons
- Resale value is lower than more established brands
- Some fit and finish details may not be as refined
Springfield Armory XD-M Elite Compact OSP 9mm
The Springfield Armory XD-M Elite Compact is a premium option that comes packed with features that are usually aftermarket upgrades. The standout feature is the match-grade barrel, which contributes to its excellent accuracy right out of the box. It also has an optics-ready slide (the OSP model), so you can easily mount a red dot sight in the future without needing a gunsmith. The grip texture is fantastic, and the pistol includes both a grip safety and a trigger safety.
What I like about the XD-M Elite for a beginner is that it’s a high-performance pistol that you can grow into. It’s very accurate and soft-shooting, which makes learning more enjoyable. The “META” trigger is one of the best striker-fired triggers available, with a short, crisp pull. While it’s at a higher price point, you’re getting a lot of gun for your money. If you see yourself getting serious about shooting and maybe adding an optic later, this is a fantastic foundation to build on.
Pros
- Excellent out-of-the-box accuracy with match-grade barrel
- Optics-ready slide for easy red dot mounting
- Superb ergonomics and trigger
Cons
- Higher price point than other beginner options
- Grip safety may not be preferred by all shooters
Walther PDP F-Series 9mm
Specifically designed with female shooters in mind, the Walther PDP F-Series is a fantastic option for anyone with smaller hands. The “F” stands for “female,” but the benefits apply to any shooter who finds standard pistol grips too large. The grip circumference is smaller, the trigger reach is shorter, and the slide serrations are designed to be easier to rack. Walther is famous for its ergonomics, and the PDP F-Series continues that tradition in a perfectly scaled package.
Beyond the fit, this is a top-tier performance pistol. It features Walther’s superb Performance Duty Trigger, which is light, crisp, and has a short reset. The grip texture is aggressive and secure without being uncomfortable. It’s also optics-ready, making it a very modern and capable handgun. If you’ve had trouble comfortably reaching the trigger or controlling other compact pistols, the PDP F-Series is absolutely worth trying. It proves that a gun that fits you well is a gun you’ll shoot well.
Pros
- Specifically designed for smaller hands
- One of the best striker-fired triggers available
- Excellent ergonomics and easy-to-rack slide
Cons
- Premium price tag
- May be too small for shooters with very large hands
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ 9mm
If you struggle with racking the slide on a typical semi-automatic pistol, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ is a game-changer. It was specifically designed to be, as the name suggests, easy to use. It features an internal hammer that makes the slide incredibly simple to pull back, which is a huge benefit for those with less hand strength. The grip safety and thumb safety provide an extra layer of security that can be very reassuring for a new shooter. The magazines also have an assist spring and side tabs, making loading them by hand a breeze instead of a thumb workout.
Chambered in 9mm, it offers a great balance of stopping power and manageable recoil. The size is perfect for home defense, and it’s slim enough to be considered for concealed carry once you’re comfortable and get your permit. The performance is top-notch, with a crisp trigger and excellent reliability. I’ve found it to be one of the most confidence-inspiring handguns for someone just starting out. It removes many of the common frustrations new shooters face, allowing them to focus on learning proper shooting fundamentals.
Pros
- Extremely easy to rack the slide
- Simple to load magazines
- Manageable recoil and comfortable to shoot
Cons
- Some experienced shooters might find the manual safety unnecessary
- Slightly larger than other single-stack options
Ruger Security-9 Compact 9mm
When you want Glock 19-like performance without the Glock 19 price tag, the Ruger Security-9 Compact is a fantastic option. Ruger is known for building tough, reliable firearms that offer incredible value, and this pistol is a prime example. It feels great in the hand and operates in a very familiar way, making it easy for a beginner to pick up and understand. It has a manual thumb safety, which can be a comforting feature for those new to handling firearms.
It’s a compact, lightweight pistol that is easy to carry but still holds a respectable amount of ammunition. I’ve always been impressed with its smooth trigger and how soft-shooting it is for its size. The recoil is very manageable, which helps with accuracy and building confidence on the range. For a first-time buyer on a budget, the Security-9 Compact delivers performance and reliability that far exceeds its cost. It’s a workhorse that won’t let you down.
Pros
- Excellent value for the money
- Comfortable grip and manageable recoil
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- The finish may show wear more quickly than some competitors
- Aftermarket support is not as vast as for Glock or S&W
7 Best Handguns for Beginners: Review & Buying Guide
Choosing your first handgun is a big deal. I remember feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options and technical terms. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated. The best handgun for a beginner is one that is safe, reliable, and easy to use, which helps you build confidence and skill. Let’s look at some key factors to consider before we get to the list of the 7 best handguns for beginners.
First, think about caliber. For a first-time shooter, I usually suggest starting with a 9mm. It’s a very common round, has manageable recoil for most people, and is effective for self-defense. It’s also widely available and relatively affordable for practice.
Next, consider the action type. You’ll mainly choose between striker-fired, single-action, and double-action. For simplicity and ease of use, a striker-fired pistol is often the best choice for a beginner. These handguns, like the popular Glock, have a consistent trigger pull for every shot and typically have fewer external controls to learn, which is great when you’re just starting out.
Size and fit are also critical. A full-sized or compact handgun is generally better for learning than a tiny subcompact. A larger gun is easier to control, absorbs recoil better, and is often more comfortable to shoot for extended range sessions. Most importantly, you need to hold the gun. It should feel comfortable and natural in your hand. You should be able to reach all the controls, especially the trigger and the safety if it has one, without adjusting your grip.
Finally, think about safety features. Modern handguns have various internal safeties, but many also have external manual safeties or other features. As a new shooter, you might prefer a model with an external safety lever for an extra layer of precaution. Remember, the most important safety is always the person holding the gun.
With these points in mind, you’re ready to look at specific models. The goal is to find a handgun that you feel comfortable with and will enjoy practicing with regularly. Now, let’s get to our list of top picks.
FAQ
What is the best caliber for a beginner’s first handgun?
For most people, the 9mm Luger is the ideal starting point. It offers a great balance of manageable recoil, effectiveness for self-defense, and affordability. Recoil is the “kick” you feel when you fire the gun. A caliber with too much recoil, like a .40 S&W or .45 ACP, can be intimidating and make it harder to learn proper shooting fundamentals. The 9mm allows you to focus on your technique without developing a flinch. It’s also one of the most common and available rounds worldwide.
Should I get a revolver or a semi-automatic pistol as my first gun?
This is a classic debate. Revolvers are known for their simplicity and reliability—if a round doesn’t fire, you just pull the trigger again. However, semi-automatic pistols are generally the better choice for a beginner today. They offer higher capacity (more rounds), are often easier to shoot accurately due to their design, and are typically faster to reload. The learning curve is a bit steeper, but the advantages in usability make it worth the effort for most new shooters.
How much should I expect to spend on my first handgun?
You can find a quality, reliable handgun from a reputable manufacturer in the $400 to $600 range. It’s tempting to go for a bargain-basement price, but your firearm is a tool where reliability is paramount. Stick with well-known brands. Remember, the cost of the gun is just the start. You also need to budget for ammunition, a secure storage solution like a safe, eye and ear protection, and professional training.
What are the most important safety rules for a new handgun owner?
Safety is the absolute number one priority. Always follow these four fundamental rules: 1) Treat every gun as if it is loaded. 2) Never let the muzzle point at anything you are not willing to destroy. 3) Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you are ready to shoot. 4) Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Memorize these and make them a habit every single time you handle a firearm.
Is it necessary to take a training class before buying my first handgun?
While not always legally required, I strongly recommend it. A good beginner class will teach you safe handling, the mechanics of how your gun works, and the fundamentals of shooting. It’s an investment that will make you a safer, more confident, and more responsible owner from day one. It’s one of the best steps you can take when preparing for your 7 best handguns for beginners purchase.
What is the best way to store a handgun safely at home?
Safe storage is a critical responsibility. If you do not carry the gun on your person, it must be stored securely to prevent access by unauthorized individuals, especially children. A quick-access lockbox or a larger gun safe are excellent options. The method you choose should balance your need for security with your need for accessibility in a self-defense situation. Always store ammunition separately from the firearm when it is not in use for an added layer of safety.