This is a question I frequently receive. Rather than getting into other handguns’ merits and shortcomings, I will go straight to my recommendation and explain why I believe it to be viable. Keep in mind that folks reading these words may be anywhere in the handgun proficiency spectrum and that this is a suggestion for the man…
Tangentially related to discussions concerning self-protection handguns is the ammunition capacity question: Should I go with larger caliber or more shots? Is higher magazine capacity and greater “firepower” more important or does everything pale when compared to caliber? With the trend strongly favoring autoloaders now, the comparison frequently centers on .45 ACP vs. 9mm. It…
Forests have been felled to provide paper for this debate; numerous handguns have been created to provide it; new calibers have been spawned and bullet design refined in its name: Effectiveness! But have we really gained anything? I think that the answer is a qualified “yes”. Unlike the ammunition of years gone by, bullets now…
If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you enjoy shooting and are obviously on the Internet. Much discussion goes on concerning the “best” handguns for specific purposes, the “best” modifications, the “best” ammunition, and so forth. (This discounts the occasional smart-aleck remark some inevitably drop in the various threads.) Answers to a specific question will…
This is a widely discussed topic on gun boards in recent years and one I’m frequently asked. There is not a simple answer, but I will submit my observations. If you are not comfortable with cocked-and-locked carry for defensive purposes, I’d go with the CZ. Though long, the double-action first shot is usually pretty smooth and exceptionally so in…
What do you recommend I do? I have had it 2 years, but am still nervous carrying it this way. If your primary purpose in owning the gun is self-protection while carrying, I’d sell or trade it for something I felt comfortable with and would become proficient with that gun. Carrying with the hammer down on a…
The use of any firearm for self-protection requires at least a minimal amount of training. You must be at least able to safely handle the weapon. You must be able to operate it without thinking. In other words, it’s essential that you be able to get it into action without consciously having to think about it. You need to understand how to maintain the firearm,…