Learning about ammo & pistols

Before we learn about pistols first let’s first talk about ammunition. 

Ammunition comes in different sizes that are called calibers. 

Figure 1

Figure 1 shows the popular pistol calibers or sizes.  It is important to note that .22 LR is read twenty – two long rifle (LR).  Even thought it has rifle in the name doesn’t mean is can’t be used in pistols.  There are many .22 LR pistols available.  And we recommend .22 LR for new shooters they are fun to shoot and .22 LR ammo is the least expensive in figure 

not all pistols are created equal

Before we begin to discuss the different types of pistols we want to say something first.   We recommend you try a different pistols first before buying one.  At many ranges you can rent and try different pistols.   Here at Superior Shooting if you are one of students by taking a class we have several pistols you can try at no cost.  You just have to pay for the ammo.

WARNING HUSBANDS!!! Do not pick out your wife’s pistol !!  Owning a pistol is a personal choice which one to buy and when to buy.  Come see us and we can match your wife with one of our female instructors and they can discuss what they are looking for.  And for goodness sake DO NOT RECOMMEND  REVOLVER see below.  Revolvers are hard to shoot for a new shooter.

Pistols

There are two types of pistols.  Revolver and striker fired pistols.

Figure 1:  Taurus .380 Ultra light revolver

PROS:

  • Lightweight (16 oz) – not including bullets
  • Low cost usually under $400

CONS:

  • Revolvers are difficult to shoot consistently
  • Not recommend for new shooters
  • 5 round capacity
  • Slow and difficult to reload

Figure 2: Glock 42 .380 caliber striker fired pistol

PROS:

  • Lightweight (13.76 oz) not including bullets
  • 6 +1 round capacity (bullet)
  • easy to reload quickly
  • many accessories available
  • easy to conceal

CONS:

  • Smaller pistol can be harder to shoot consistently for  small shooters