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#Post#: 107--------------------------------------------------
Guns for those new to the shooting sport.
DIR By: allmanav
Date: March 7, 2020, 4:28 pm
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When I entered the gun industry as a new shooter and competitor,
I felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of handgun options
available. I wasn’t sure which models would fit my hand best or
if there any that could tackle multiple shooting disciplines.
After extensive research and hands-on experience, I have
narrowed that list down to models I think make great beginner
handguns, especially for women.
To save our readers a little time and effort as well as inspire
them to hit the range, here are my top picks for
beginner-friendly handguns chambered in 9mm.
The Glock 17 is a staple on the competitive circuit (Photo:
Taylor Thorne/Guns.com)
Glocks not only come with reliability but a large group of users
that act as a support group. The ability to ask other Glock guys
and girls questions about upgrades and accessories make
ownership easier. Who knows, you might even find a squadmate for
competitions.
Glock pistols all feature a similar basic design with a varying
barrel and overall lengths. In the world of competition, most
handguns will use longer barrels — on average 5-inches – to
increase sight radius and accuracy. While the G19 is perfect for
carry, it might not work as well in a competition. For those
looking to dive into the competition ranks, the G17 is a great
place to start. A real middle-of-the-road option, it offers a
4.47-inch barrel.
Glock G17
One of the best things about the G17 is the availability of
parts. As you compete, you’ll learn what accessories can up your
game. The plethora of options for the G17 means plenty to choose
from and at affordable prices. The only downside to the Glock
build is the grip angle. Some shooters will find the grip angle
uncomfortable. Though the Glock ships with interchangeable
backstraps, the overall build is blocky and may not be as
comfortable.
The G17 is a bit snappy but my impressions are overall good for
this pistol. Out of the box, you will want to consider some
upgrades to make it more competitive. Namely, you’ll want to
consider swapping out the magazine and slide releases. Stock,
these are small and hard to manipulate.
Overall the Glock 17 is a solid choice, but if you want a little
less snap, consider the G34.
Walther PPQ Q5 Match and PPQ Steel Frame
Walther PPQ
The Walther PPQ is a great gun for competition (Photo: Taylor
Thorne/Guns.com)
On the other end of the spectrum, the Walther PPQ stands out as
ergonomically superior. This handgun delivers a smaller grip
shaped in a way that allows for a very natural feel in the hand.
Unlike Glock, Walther’s following is smaller but still willing
to talk shop. At an event, you might see one or two people
shooting a PPQ.
When determining which PPQ model is best for you — the Q5 or SF
– consider optics and weight. For those wanting a lighter gun
with an optics ready build, the Q5 is the best option; however,
if you seek a little extra weight with that red dot design then
head for the SF.
The Q5 sports an upgraded barrel, trigger, and a few other
features shooters might enjoy. While there are varying barrel
lengths, stick with the 5-inch. The SF, or Steel Frame, was
introduced as a true competition gun with the weight of a steel
frame to help with transitions and recoil. It’s worth noting,
the grip of the SF is different from the other PPQs, coming in a
bit larger.
Walther PPQ
A drawback of the Walther is the lack of available upgrades;
but, out of the box, this is a much more competitive gun than
the Glock. The controls are very easy to reach and felt recoil
is a bit softer – though the PPQ does come with some muzzle
flip. The trigger in the PPQ series is amazing! Hands-down best
factory striker-fired trigger you will find. Through years of
competing and 50,000+ rounds, I had one issue with the firing
pin breaking which Walther quickly replaced.
If you seek a handgun that provides a smaller grip and
ergonomics, the Walther PPQ Q5 is a fantastic option. If you
want to be competitive and can handle a larger grip, opt for the
SF model.
Sig Sauer changed the game in the competitive shooting world
with the P320 X5 series. This pistol is worth checking out. The
standard full-size X5 features a flared magwell and weighs
around 35.5-ounces. Meanwhile, the X5 Legion comes tungsten
infused with a weight of 43.5-ounces.
Sig X5
The P320 allows users to change the entire grip module and
though the X5 is offered in medium, you can grab a standard P320
grip in sizes small or large. Another benefit to the P320’s
modularity is the serial number. The number is not located on
the grip module itself, so should you damage the grip you don’t
have to buy a new gun. Even better, if you drop the pistol in
the sand or mud you can take out the internals, hose it out and
put it back in.
The X5 feels a bit blocky but not nearly as much as the Glock
and the controls are easier to reach. I opted for a grip
reduction as the medium X5 Legion module is too big for my
taste. The main benefit of Sig’s X5 series is how flat the
pistols shoot. The felt recoil is soft and the muzzle stays
vertical.
Final Thoughts
The handguns I selected are good for most any shooting
discipline. Handgun choices are extremely personal, so pick one
that fits your hand and feels the best. Having a handgun that
fits will undoubtedly help with maintaining proper grip,
mitigating recoil and comfortably manipulating controls.
Get your hands on some guns, practice and join a local shooting
competition to get a feel for the sport. Be it a Glock, Walther
or Sig Sauer you can’t go wrong.
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