Should first pistol be full size or conceal carry size?

Should First Pistol be Full Size or Conceal Carry Size?

As a beginner shooter, choosing your first pistol can be overwhelming. One of the most common dilemmas is whether to start with a full-size or conceal carry size pistol. In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

Should First Pistol be Full Size or Conceal Carry Size? – A Direct Answer

The ideal choice between a full-size and conceal carry pistol largely depends on your intended use, skill level, and personal preference. As a beginner, we recommend starting with a full-size pistol, at least until you develop a good grip, stance, and basic shooting skills. Here’s why:

Full-Size Pistols

• Better Accuracy: Full-size pistols typically have longer barrels and longer sight planes, resulting in improved accuracy and accuracy consistency.
• More Control: Longer grips and a higher magazine capacity allow for more effective control, making it easier to handle the pistol.
• Better Handling: Full-size pistols tend to have a more ergonomic design, with a natural positioning of the grip, sight, and trigger.

However, there are some limitations to consider:

• Bulkiness: Full-size pistols are generally larger, heavier, and less portable than conceal carry pistols.
• Size: Full-size pistols can be cumbersome in tight spaces or for people with smaller hands.

Conceal Carry Pistols

• Convenience: Conceal carry pistols are designed to be compact, lightweight, and easy to carry in various situations.
• Easy to conceal: These pistols are ideal for everyday carry, with many models available in calibers from.380 ACP to 9mm.
• Portability: Conceal carry pistols are easy to transport, making them ideal for hiking, backpacking, or travel.

However, conceal carry pistols come with their own set of limitations:

• Compromised Accuracy: The shorter barrel and reduced sight plane of conceal carry pistols can impact accuracy and group size.
• More Difficult to Control: Smaller grips and higher recoil impulses can make control more challenging for some users.
• Less Training: Some shooters may feel less inclined to train and practice with a smaller pistol, leading to a slower development of skills.

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing between a full-size and conceal carry pistol, consider the following:

• Purpose: Is the pistol for home defense, competitive shooting, or everyday carry?
• Skill Level: Are you a beginner or experienced shooter?
• Size: Do you prefer a more compact pistol or don’t mind a larger, heavier pistol?
• Lifestyle: Do you travel frequently or spend time outdoors?

Recommendations for Beginners

• Full-Size Pistol: As a beginner, a full-size pistol provides better accuracy, more control, and easier handling.
• Conceal Carry Pistol: However, if you’re serious about carrying for self-defense, a full-size pistol might be overkill for daily carry.
• Training: Consider taking classes or working with an instructor to develop proper shooting technique, regardless of the pistol you choose.
• Grip Training: Start with a larger grip to build up strength and muscle memory before switching to a smaller pistol.

Summary

In conclusion, for beginners, a full-size pistol is recommended for better accuracy, control, and ease of handling. However, if you’re set on carrying for self-defense or prefer a more compact option, a conceal carry pistol might be the better choice. Consider the factors discussed above, weigh the pros and cons, and choose a pistol that best suits your needs.

Table: Key Features Comparison