Choosing your first gun — whether for self-defense, hunting or sport shooting — is a big decision. With countless models available, finding the best first gun can feel overwhelming. This beginner-friendly guide simplifies your search for the best starting gun by highlighting top handguns and rifles, focusing on ease of use, reliability and safety. We’ll also walk through key considerations to help you make a confident, informed first purchase.

How to Choose Your First Gun

While everyone’s needs are different, the factors to consider when selecting your first firearm are generally the same. Start by identifying your main purpose — self-defense, hunting or recreational shooting — since this will determine whether a handgun or rifle is more appropriate. If you’re still narrowing down what type of gun fits your goals, this first time gun buyer’s guide offers a helpful overview of beginner-friendly firearm categories and features.

A good first handgun or rifle should help you develop key shooting fundamentals such as grip, trigger control, sight alignment and recoil management. The gun should fit comfortably in your hand, allowing you to reach the trigger without adjusting your grip. For beginners, it’s essential to choose a firearm that is simple to operate and offers manageable recoil. Reliability is just as important — selecting a well-known brand with a proven track record ensures your gun performs when you need it most.

Also consider ease of maintenance: a firearm that’s simple to clean and has widely available parts will save you time, effort and frustration in the long run.

Budget matters, but it’s about more than just the cost of the gun itself. Be sure to factor in the price of ammunition, training and essential accessories like holsters, cleaning kits and secure storage. No matter which firearm you choose, investing in safety training is crucial to becoming a responsible and confident gun owner.

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Why a .22 May Be the Best First Gun

Believe it or not, choosing the best first handgun may not actually start with purchasing a handgun. If you’ve never fired a gun before, the ideal entry point may be a .22 rifle. With a .22 rifle, you learn all the basics of shooting — sight alignment, sight picture, breath control, trigger squeeze and follow-through — without the noise and recoil of a centerfire firearm. These foundational skills transfer directly to handgun shooting.

If you’re not in a position to buy both a rifle and a handgun, or already have experience with a .22 rifle, a quality .22 rimfire handgun is a logical next step. Compact .22 revolvers, in particular, are easy to operate, load and clear safely. They produce minimal muzzle blast and recoil — and they’re inexpensive to shoot. These traits make them excellent training tools.

For new shooters, a .22-caliber handgun is often the best first pistol. The .22 Long Rifle (LR) cartridge is affordable, produces very little recoil and runs quietly, making it ideal for beginners. A .22 revolver is especially user-friendly thanks to its simple operation, allowing new shooters to focus on marksmanship fundamentals without being distracted by complex mechanics.

A good .22-caliber handgun can also be used for self-defense, especially with the availability of specialized .22 LR and .22 Magnum self-defense loads.

Best First Handguns

After understanding the benefits of starting with a .22, many new shooters naturally begin their handgun journey here. Handguns are easier to store securely in a locking box and are well-suited for indoor ranges. Most ranges allow you to set targets from 5 to 25 yards — ideal distances for developing defensive shooting skills and building confidence early on.

Top .22 Revolvers for Beginners

Starting with a double-action revolver helps new shooters develop patience and solid trigger control — foundational skills that carry over to other firearms. Revolvers are available in small (J-frame) to medium (K-frame) sizes and often hold more than six rounds.

Top beginner-friendly .22 revolvers include:

These revolvers offer manageable triggers, prominent sights and the option of single-action thumb-cocking for a lighter, easier trigger pull.

Top .22 Semi-Automatic Pistols for Beginners

If you have guidance or prior experience, semi-automatic .22 pistols are also excellent choices. Here are top-rated options:

  • Ruger SR22: Features 14 configurations, adjustable sights, decocking lever and ambidextrous manual safety (10-round magazine, medium frame)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P .22 Compact: Mimics the feel of the M&P M2.0 Compact 9mm, making it great for training or carry (10-round capacity, 15.3 ounces)

Centerfire Handguns for Beginners

Once you’ve built confidence with a .22-caliber firearm, you may be ready to move up to a centerfire handgun. These firearms offer greater stopping power and are commonly used for self-defense, home protection and concealed carry. For first-time buyers, two popular choices are .357 Magnum revolvers (which also accept .38 Special rounds) and semi-automatic pistols chambered in 9mm or .380 ACP. Each type has its pros and cons — your decision should be guided by what feels most natural and controllable in your hands.

Many new shooters debate whether to start with a .22 or jump straight to a 9mm, especially when considering concealed carry. It’s a common question, and this comparison offers a practical look at both options.

If you’re weighing .22 or 9mm for first gun decisions, a striker-fired 9mm handgun is also a great entry point. One of the most common mistakes new shooters make is choosing a firearm that’s too large or powerful to handle comfortably. Instead, select a gun you can control with ease and practice with consistently — comfort and confidence are key to building lasting skills.

.357 Magnum Revolvers (.38 Special Compatible)

If you’re comfortable with a revolver and want something for self-defense, consider a .357 Magnum revolver. These can also fire lighter-recoiling .38 Special rounds, offering versatility without complexity. This “two-in-one” capability makes it an attractive choice for new shooters who prefer the simplicity and reliability of revolvers. Models from Ruger, Smith & Wesson and Taurus are commonly available in various frame sizes, and many ranges offer rentals so you can test them before buying.

9mm & .380 ACP Semi-Automatic Pistols

Today, the 9mm reigns supreme among centerfire calibers for beginners. It’s affordable, effective and widely available. Double-stack 9mms offer up to 17 rounds but can be bulkier to carry. Compact and micro-compact models with slimmer profiles are often better suited for everyday concealed carry.

The .380 ACP, while less powerful than 9mm, produces less recoil and is generally available in smaller, lighter pistols, making it a good option for shooters with smaller hands or less upper-body strength. And if you want something even more recoil-friendly, pistols chambered in .32 ACP — such as the Kel-Tec P32 or Walther PPK — offer softer shooting in compact frames.

Top .380 ACP Pistols for Beginners

  • Girsan MC14T X: Tip-up barrel allows chambering without racking the slide; ideal for those with limited hand strength
  • Ruger LCP II: Compact with tritium front sight, 10-round magazine
  • Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0: Thumb safety available, tritium front sight, 10 to 12 round capacity

Top 9mm Pistols for Beginners

Best First Rifles

If you’re leaning toward a rifle, a .22 caliber model is a fantastic place to start. The longer barrel improves muzzle control and helps establish safe handling practices.

Manual repeaters (bolt, lever or pump-action rifles) also teach discipline, ammo conservation and careful shot placement. These rifles are perfect for plinking, teaching youth or refining fundamentals.

Recommended Manual Repeaters

Best First Semi-Auto Rifle

  • Ruger 10/22: Highly customizable, incredibly reliable and accurate enough to consistently group five shots within 3 inches at 50 yards; available in multiple models and rarely outgrown

Buying and Legally Owning Your First Gun

Your first trip to a gun store can feel intimidating. Many new buyers worry they’ll be judged for not knowing enough and try to “fake it” to avoid looking inexperienced. In reality, most staff appreciate when you’re honest about your knowledge level — it helps them provide better guidance and communicate on your terms.

Before visiting a gun shop, take time to research different types of firearms and get a clear sense of what you’re looking for. Many stores have on-site ranges and offer firearms rentals, giving you a chance to test various models. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and handle multiple guns, finding one that feels right in your hand is an important part of the process.

Gun Store Etiquette for First-Time Buyers

Gun stores have their own etiquette, and following a few simple rules can make you a customer that staff are glad to help. Here are some behavior tips to keep in mind:

  • Always double-check that the gun is unloaded.
    When a clerk hands you a firearm to inspect, open it again to confirm it’s unloaded — even if he or she already did. This extra step shows that you prioritize safety, and it’s something good salespeople will respect.
  • Ask before dry-firing.
    Before you press the trigger on an empty gun, ask the clerk if it’s OK to “dry-fire” it. Most modern firearms can handle it just fine, but it’s polite to ask since you’re handling store property.
  • Be mindful of muzzle direction.
    If you want to look through the sights, never point the gun at the clerk — or anyone else. Start by aiming it at the floor, then raise it carefully toward a blank wall or ceiling area to simulate a safe target.
  • Return the firearm safely.
    When handing the gun back, offer it butt-first or with the muzzle pointed up or down — never toward the person helping you.

Understanding Form 4473

When you purchase a firearm, you’ll need to complete ATF Form 4473, which collects your contact details and verifies your legal eligibility to own a gun. The form includes a series of yes-or-no questions about your background. If you answer “no” to any required eligibility criteria, the sale cannot proceed. Most importantly, never lie on Form 4473 — it’s a federal felony that can result in steep fines and prison time.

What to Expect from a Background Check

After completing the form, the dealer will contact the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to ensure you’re not prohibited from owning a firearm. This process usually takes just a few minutes. Occasionally, the system may return a “deny” or “delay” result. If your record is clean, it’s likely a system error, and your dealer can help guide you through the steps to resolve it.

Final Steps After Your Purchase

Once your background check is approved, you’re officially the proud owner of a new firearm. Some stores may escort you to the front door while carrying the firearm for you — a common policy to ensure safety and compliance. Procedures can vary by retailer, so don’t be surprised if your store follows a similar process.

Choosing the Best First Gun

Choosing your first gun is a significant decision that requires thoughtful consideration of your goals, experience, intended purpose, ease of use and budget. Whether you’re searching for the best first handgun, the best beginner rifle, or weighing .22 or 9mm for your first gun, your choice should be something you can handle comfortably, train with regularly and trust in critical moments.

By understanding your needs and doing thorough research, you’ll be well-prepared to select a firearm that fits your lifestyle — whether for self-defense, hunting or recreational shooting. Most importantly, prioritize safety and invest in proper training to build confidence and ensure responsible gun ownership. With the right approach, your first gun purchase can offer protection, personal growth and lasting peace of mind.

Ready to choose your first firearm? Visit a local range, try out a few models and invest in training that builds confidence from day one.

Still have questions? Reach out to your local range or locate a USCCA Certified Instructor to get personalized guidance.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 9mm good for beginners?
Yes, a striker-fired 9mm handgun is a great option for beginners due to its manageable recoil, reliability, and suitability for regular practice and personal defense.

What gun is good for a first-time gun owner?
A .22-caliber revolver or rifle is ideal for first-time gun owners because of its simplicity, low recoil and ease of use, while 9mm pistols are also excellent beginner choices.

Is a revolver or semi-automatic pistol better for a first-time shooter?
A .22 revolver is often better for first-time shooters thanks to its simple operation, allowing beginners to focus on fundamentals like trigger control and marksmanship.

This article is a compilation of previous blog posts authored by Bob Campbell, Scott W. Wagner and Kevin Michalowski.