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8 Best Budget Guns for New Shooters [Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun]

Picking your first gun can be a hassle. So, we're taking the guesswork out and providing you with some great guns for new shooters...that are affordable!
We review products independently. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission to help support our testing. Learn more.
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    Getting bogged down by a billion recommendations and technical jargon can make it hard for newer gun owners or people looking to get their first gun to get into collecting and shooting.  

    Taurus GX4 Shooting

    Everyone has to start somewhere.

    So let’s take a look at some guns out there for anyone looking to get started or just dip their toes into the wide world of firearms without spending a bunch of money in the process.

    Whether it’s your first gun or your 50th, all of these are excellent choices and will serve you well. So, keep reading!

    THE QUICK LIST

    1. Best Budget Plinker

      Ruger 10/22

    2. Best Budget Hunting Rifle

      Savage Axis II

    3. Best Budget Handgun

      Beretta APX A1

    4. Best For Concealed Carry

      Taurus GX4

    Table of Contents

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    Best Budget Guns for New Shooters

    1. Mossberg Maverick Model 88 – Best Budget Shotgun

    Best Budget Shotgun
    $220
    at Kygunco

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Extremely reliable
    • Large aftermarket
    • Versatile

    Cons

    • Safety location isn’t ideal
    • Not the smoothest action

    The Mossberg Maverick 88 is the undisputed king of budget shotguns. It is a stripped-down version of the legendary Mossberg 500 with some slight ergonomic changes to make the platform a little more affordable.

    The Maverick is a simple, pump-action shotgun with a standard magazine tube design.

    There are a few variations, including Security and Field models, designs with longer tubes and barrels, and pistol grip-only models.

    The Maverick 88 can be fitted with much of the standard Mossberg 500 furniture, which makes customization easy.

    When it comes to budget guns, reliability can sometimes be hit or miss. With the Maverick 88, this is not an issue at all, as it utilizes one of the most time-proven designs coupled with the reliability of a manual pump-action.

    Just about any big box store in the United States likely carries the Maverick 88 at a price of around $200-250.

    Not a bad deal for a crazy reliable platform that packs a major punch. In fact, the Mossberg Maverick 88 is easily the best low-priced home defense weapon out there.

    2. Ruger 10/22 – Best Budget Plinking Rifle

    Best Budget Plinker
    $199
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Cheap ammo
    • Fun to shoot
    • Massive aftermarket

    Cons

    • Upgraded models can start to get expensive

    The Ruger 10/22 is one of the best all-around .22 LR rifles on the market, and you’ll see it everywhere. It is a reliable, easy-to-shoot, semi-automatic rifle, all of which make shooting this gun a fun time.

    There are numerous versions, so you can find one to fit your specific needs.

    For example, they have a competition version with a sweet-looking barrel, a takedown version (this separates into two pieces and fits in a bag for easy storage), a standard carbine, and more.

    Fully Upgraded 10/22
    Fully Upgraded 10/22…it gets pricey when you start upgrading, but the base is pretty affordable.

    One of the nicest things about the 10/22 is the number of accessories and awesome mods available for it.

    These guns enjoy one of the widest aftermarkets of any firearm ever made, so if you want something for it, they probably make it.

    Most of the Ruger 10/22 rifles are in the $250-$400 range; it really just depends on how crazy you want to be.  

    3. Savage Axis II – Best Budget Hunting Rifle

    Best Budget Hunting Rifle
    $313
    at Firearms Depot

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Accurate
    • Accu-Trigger is great
    • Large caliber variety

    Cons

    • Action isn’t the smoothest

    Low price and high performance should be the tagline of the Axis rifles from Savage. The Axis II boasts stellar accuracy while being easy on the wallet.

    Savage offers standard rifles, compact-sized ones, left-handed versions, and more feature-filled variants at slightly higher prices. These rifles are also offered in a ton of different calibers.

    You can get a little bit of everything with the Axis. With the basic models, you get a simple but reliable and very accurate platform. There isn’t much modularity inherently, but companies like Magpul produce stocks and accessories to get you going.

    The Savage Axis II is ready to tackle just about anything you can throw at it. (Photo: Survivalblog)

    Key features include Savage’s excellent Accu-Trigger, button-rifled barrels, and a newer redesigned stock. The trigger alone is worth the price of admission and is sure to help reinforce good shooting fundamentals.

    The Axis series rifles are perfect for the new hunter or new rifle owner seeking something affordable, reliable, and easy to shoot.

    Sure, they aren’t long-range precision rifles, but for 99% of shooters, they are more than enough gun.

    4. Andro Corp ACI-15 Bravo – Best Budget AR-15

    Best Budget AR-15
    $399
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Quality BCG and barrel
    • Reliable
    • Aggressively priced

    Cons

    • Grip and stock are basic

    While they are likely the least familiar name on the list, Andro Corp Industries has quietly and quickly established itself as one of the best budget AR manufacturers out there.

    The main reason they beat out everyone in the sub-$500 category is their commitment to using quality components for the critical parts of the gun. Even their base model ACI-15 Bravo uses proven AO Precision bolt-carrier groups and Ballistic Advantage barrels — both excellent choices.

    Secondly, they only do AR-15s, nothing else. All of their quality control is focused on a single platform, and it shows. Seriously, do a little digging around on the internet, and you will see that these guns are very well-received, even among seasoned shooters.

    Andro Corp ACI-15
    Andro Corp ACI-15 with accessories. (Photo: Midway USA)

    Some of the parts, like the pistol grip, stock, and charging handle, are very basic. However, it is still perfectly serviceable as-is once you add a sighting system. But even if you decide to upgrade those parts, you will likely come out ahead in price over most competitors.

    These may very well be the best budget ARs to use as the base for your next build. And with a street price of around $400, there isn’t much of a reason not to jump on one.

    5. Palmetto State Armory PA-15 – Editor’s Pick AR-15

    $499
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Reliable
    • PSA offers a huge variety of ARs
    • Frequent sales

    Cons

    • Specific models can go in and out of stock fast

    Palmetto State Armory has long been a champion of the people when it comes to budget AR-15s. The sheer amount of firearms they make and the number of options they offer are unmatched.

    Whether you are looking for a standard 16-inch 5.56 gun, a short .300 Blackout AR pistol, or something in a more potent caliber for hunting, PSA likely has you covered for a reasonable price.

    PSA Sabre shoot shorty left
    Shooting the PSA Sabre AR-15

    While they may not be the finest velvet-lined guns out there, Palmetto State AR-15s have been reliable in our testing and represent one of the best bangs for your buck.

    We have hands-on reviews of multiple PSA products, including base-model AR-15s, multiple AR-10s, AR uppers, PCCs, AKs, various handguns, and more. All of them have been solid!

    If you want more info on AR-15s, be sure to check out our popular AR-15 Buyers Guide.

    6. Beretta APX A1 – Best Budget Handgun

    Best Budget Handgun
    $365
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Optics-ready
    • Good trigger
    • Solid accuracy

    Cons

    • More limited holster and aftermarket support

    Picking a singular duty-sized striker-fired pistol for this list is tough; competition is stiff. If you include Glock, people say they cost too much. If you don’t include Glock, people get upset.

    Trust us when we say we have big love for Glock, Canik, and numerous other striker-fired guns. But, alas, this is a budget list, and we feel that one of the strongest frontrunners is the Beretta APX A1.

    Beretta APX grip
    Beretta APX A1

    With the APX A1, you get a 17-round capacity optics-ready pistol, ambidextrous controls, fiber optic front sight, and a good trigger. All of that is backed up by the Beretta name and Beretta reliability that you would expect.

    The best part about all of that? You can pick these up for under $400 all day. While saving $100 or so over a Glock may not seem like a big deal to some, for others, that is money they can put toward accessories or an optic they otherwise couldn’t swing.

    Check out our hands-on review and video below to see why this gun is a top sleeper pick.

    What’s your take on the Beretta APX A1? Rate it below.

    Readers’ Ratings

    4.98/5 (1817)

    Your Rating?

    7. Taurus GX4 – Best Budget Handgun For Concealed Carry

    Best For Concealed Carry
    $240
    at BattleHawk Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Easy to conceal
    • Comfy ergonomics
    • Good trigger

    Cons

    • Snappy recoil

    After changing leadership a few years back, Taurus has focused on increasing the quality of its firearms to provide affordable and reliable guns to the average consumer — and the GX4 does just that.

    Coming in typically between $200-$300, the GX4 lowers the bar of entry into the world of micro-compact pistols.

    Taurus GX4
    The Taurus GX4 stacks up well to guns like the Springfield Hellcat and Sig P365 at nearly half the price.

    These micro-compact pistols are typically small-frame firearms, roughly an inch wide, that hold 10 rounds of 9mm or more. They give you much of the capacity of a larger gun but in a much smaller and easier-to-conceal package.

    So what does this mean? It means if you are looking for something for every day carry, the GX4 is worth looking at. It has an excellent trigger, superb ergonomics, shoots well, and is easy on the wallet.

    Looking for more? Check out our Best Beginner Handguns for Self Defense.

    8. Tisas/SDS Imports 1911A1 – Best Budget Fun Gun

    Best Budget Fun Gun
    $299
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Fully forged frame and machined internals
    • Accurate
    • Reliable

    Cons

    • GI-style sights aren’t the best for accuracy

    Not every budget gun needs to fill a serious role like self-defense or hunting. Some people are just into recreational shooting and like historical or iconic guns. We dig that.

    If you fall in that category, we present to you the Tisas/SDS Imports 1911A1.

    These are new production guns that are faithful to the original 1911A1 pistols of World War 2. The shooting experience you get from 1911 is something everyone should try.

    Tisas-1911-A1
    Tisas 1911 A1

    While many affordable 1911s use the cost-effective casting process to create their frames and metal injection molding (MIM) to make small parts like control levers and triggers, Tisas/SDS does not.

    Don’t get me wrong, you can make great guns using proper casting and MIM techniques. But at the end of the day, machined steel parts are better. All Tisas 1911 frames are forged, and all the smaller parts are machined instead of MIM, with the sole exception of the recoil spring plug.

    Aside from that, the fit and finish are surprisingly high quality. They look killer, have good triggers, and come with two sets of grips (one plastic, one wood), two magazines, and a barrel bushing tool.

    Tisas 1911 A1 boxed

    Not bad for less than $300-350 (you read that right).

    On top of the attractive price and build quality, these guns run reliably, making them the best value in 1911s right now.

    History buffs, people who like heavy all-steel guns, and .45 ACP enjoyers should enjoy this hidden gem of a pistol.

    Check out our complete review of the Tisas 1911 A1 or our video below!

    Why You Should Trust Pew Pew Tactical

    Leading this search is Travis Pike, a Pew Pew Tactical author and gun writer. Travis has spent thousands of hours at the range testing and evaluating gear as well as researching the best models available on the market. His experience as a Marine Corps machine gunner, NRA-certified instructor, concealed carry trainer, and competitor gives him unique insight into a wide variety of guns.

    Travis shooting Primary Arms Classic Mini Reflex Sight on Arex Delta M
    Travis Pike shooting an Arex Delta pistol.

    Editing and adding to this article is Wyatt Sloan, Jr. Editor. Wyatt is an NRA-certified instructor with previous experience as a USPSA competitor. Wyatt personally owns over 200 firearms and has 10 years of home-based FFL firearm sales. He has used his extensive experience with firearms at large to test guns for Pew Pew Tactical — evaluating them based on our standards and metrics.

    Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of gun reviewers. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. She uses her extensive professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards.

    Final Thoughts

    Now that you have a few choices to start your gun collection, it’s time to figure out which one to get first. Decide what you want to do with the gun, then decide your budget and do any extra research you need.

    More CA Roster Handguns

    If you’re on a budget, we totally understand; but always remember, training is key. Be sure to practice and budget for ammo and range time so that you can make the most out of the guns you buy.

    What do you think your first purchase will be? Do you know a good first gun that we left out? Let us know in the comments below! If you are completely new to shooting, you can check out our beginner handgun course, Gun Noob to Gun Slinger.

    Latest Updates

    • October 2024 Update: Removed: Benelli Nova, Glock 19, Sig Sauer M400 Tread. Added: Beretta APX A1, AndroCorp ACI-15, Tisas 1911A1.
    • September 2023: New models added.

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    62 Leave a Reply

    • Jackson F.

      My comment about the horrible trigger refers to the APX-A1 Carry. I understand that the trigger on the APX-A1 Full Size is good.

      October 9, 2024 8:32 am
    • Spark

      Before Claiming Mossberg 500 and variants as being dead reliable, watch this video.
      Dropping a Mossberg 500 on its side from a height of about 18" causes the shell elevator to become disloged, and if you try to cycle it it jams.
      I got a Mossberg shipped from the factory and had this condition caused during shipping. The only way to unjam the gun was to disassemble it.
      Google the following " WATCH THIS if You Own a Mossberg 500,590, or 88 "
      and go to the Youtube video

      October 7, 2024 10:07 am
    • Mike

      An updated version of this article could include the just-released Springfield Armory XD Mod.3. Optic ready and retailing in the wild at $299 (Grab a Gun) this is an updated version of the venerable XD line. And, if Springfield follows with a subcompact version, the new XD Mod.3 could hold two places on the list!

      p.s., for the "Grip Zone" haters out there - the Mod.3 grip has been updated as well, so no Grip Zone!

      October 7, 2024 7:11 am
    • Jackson F

      You lost me with the Beretta APX-A1. Good trigger? I think not. The APX-A1 has one of the longest and heaviest trigger pulls out there in a subcompact 9 mm. Definitely not a good beginner gun IMHO.

      October 7, 2024 12:42 am
    • Watson F

      Early in 2024 I purchased a S&W M&P ez chambered in 30 super carry. With the promotions and rebate I paid $199. It satisfied numerous issues. The 30 super carry came with two 10 round magazines. Most of the ammunition is 100 grain. Minimal recoil, easy to rack the slide and easy to carry concealed. The only cons I found were: (1) can’t predict the future availability of 30 super carry ammunition.
      (2) newbie’s would be unfamiliar with the grip safety. I live in an unconstitutional state. Financial issues and health concerns prohibit a move. I support gun manufacturers who try to accommodate us by offering a 10 round mag option.

      October 6, 2024 9:15 pm
    • Trigger-safety

      I can't agree with the Glocks or any "trigger safety" style gun for a beginner. Not having an "on purpose" safety for a beginner is asking for trouble. And I own a G45 so it's not that I don't like Glocks. It's hard for a beginner to keep their finger off the trigger until they need to shoot, which means the safety will do nothing for them. Just watch how many beginners at a gun store hold a gun. Yikes! After someone becomes proficient (i.e. take a class) and shoots for a while, then I'd say a Glock is good.

      September 27, 2023 3:22 pm
    • Backinservice

      I would have started with the Beretta APX (at least with the 299 sale going on) or the canik elite at 389 on a regular basis, that has built in upgrades that the Glock doesn't have, as basic carry/practice ballistic tools. These are reliable and military proven in their respective areas. The reliability of the glock is unquestioned, however, the grip angle is easier on pistols that have gotten away from Glocks awkward angle you have to train out of (and yes, every tool requires training).

      September 26, 2023 7:38 am
    • Pua Ilima

      How about a review of budget guns an average woman can handle that would take male attackers on drugs down?

      September 25, 2023 8:56 am
      • Jim

        Go to the search box at the top right of this window, and type the word "women" (without the quotes), and hit ENTER. You will find lots of excellent articles written by women for women on many different topics of interest to you, including the topic you asked about.

        In fact, the editor-in-chief of this web site is a woman (Jacki Billings).

        September 28, 2023 12:08 pm
    • Crawl-Walk-Run

      In my time as an RSO, I have seen many beginner shooters struggle with 9mm as their first firearm. It's easy to get bad habits and be unfamiliar with the fundamentals. A 22lr handgun gives someone time to develop properly before they move on.

      September 24, 2023 10:12 pm
    • T. Kinsey

      Yeah, when your scope is as big as your AR, you might want to rethink your priorities.

      September 24, 2023 9:50 pm
    • Rick Prouty

      Why isn't the Tisas line of budget 1911s (by your own 400.00 standard ) in the running? I have the Tisas carry model. Great gun for the 359.00 I paid for it.

      September 24, 2023 7:43 pm
    • LukeNPA

      Just how much money do you get from Glock? Or are you just a fanboy?

      September 24, 2023 6:58 pm
    • Jim

      Ruger Max 9 will cost you around $350 plus tax. It has great sights, it shoots great, and it has a 12+1 capacity.

      If that is too expensive, then try the Ruger EC9S - around $250 plus tax. Very reliable, very thin (great for pocket carry). You can put some white paint on the front sight to improve the very rudimentary sights.

      July 9, 2023 7:02 am
    • Stephen Broffitt

      Being that I live in New York state I'm looking more and more at the hi point c9. I know...it's not the best handgun but I work full time and like everyone these days fund's are tight. Being an army vet I know first hand how important training is and from what I have gathered from various videos on YouTube...the hi point is a training forward handgun. The more you train with it the easier you become e using it. I understand the glock 19 is somewhat of a king but all of seem to forget one critical piece of data....not everyone can have 15rds. While I would love it I'm not dropping 400-500 dollars on a gun then have to search for 10rd mags. To me 8 is enough to protect me and my family. Not to sound like a broken record but the warranty is a big selling point to me. That gives piece of mind. So to each their own but one thing I have heard which I fully believe is: the second amendment is not limited to one's budget.

      October 11, 2022 5:55 pm
    • Adam Stinchcomb

      Just a couple thoughts for beginner guns. 1. EXTAR EP9. Budget PDW $450.00 shoots like a dream, at least mine does and I have not heard of a bad review. Small, light weight fun gun but has value for home defense. 2. IWI Zion 15, $800.00 AR 15 but shoots like ARs twice the price. Well built and reliable. Best of all both are US made (though IWI is foreign owned)

      September 14, 2022 1:31 pm
    • Chuck Cochran

      Glock 19 a Budget First Pistol? Hardly. I'm not a Gl9ck fan of because the triggers are the suckiest pieces of crap on the market. 5 Generations and they still suck.
      A Walther PDP is in the same price bracket as the Glock, and the trigger is the best stock out of the box trigger you'll find at that price point.
      A Compact or Sub Compact is better off being avoided by a Newbie. So a Taurus G3 series is preferable to the G4's and at least $200 less than a Glock. Any Budget pistol over $400 is no longer a Budget Gun,

      September 13, 2022 6:30 pm
    • Recoiler

      I'm surprised you guys didn't list the new PSA Dagger for a good budget beginner handgun.
      But at least you didn't list Hi Point.

      September 13, 2022 6:09 pm
    • Dave

      "If you have a .308 rifle, you’re not going to be hunting squirrels."
      I've hunted squirrels with a .308. "What' squirrels", you might ask. That was what I said...after I shot a few.

      September 13, 2022 4:59 pm
    • Kurt S

      Two suggestions: Both as budget guns for newbies. Both are made by Bersa and both less than $400. The Bersa Thunder and Thunder Plus in .380 are fine pistols. The Bersa TPT9-C in 9mm is perhaps the workhorse of compact non-striker fired 9s and under $400. The TRP9-C and the Thunder Plus are double stacked magazine guns. And both just work. The TPR9-C is a compact Service pistol. Neither have a lot of after market accessories, but FFS, you really don't need the accessories when things drop in the pot, do you?

      September 13, 2022 4:35 pm
    • Steve

      Believe it or not, many of your readers would like coverage on the best high end guns available. I have a terrific Sig Sauer P226 Navy and I would like to read about guns that are as good or better.

      September 13, 2022 4:12 pm
    • mattycamp

      I highly recommend the Taurus G3C over the GX4. The trigger in the G3C is very, very good and everything about the G3C feels better in the hand (and in action) than the GX4.

      September 12, 2022 1:45 pm
    • Chris

      For lefties, Canik Tp9 is a whole ecosystem of firearms that are cheaper and more feature rich than a G19 and just as readily available these days. Arex Delta One, IWI Masada, CZ-P10C, so many better options out there and definitely more affordable.

      September 12, 2022 9:29 am
      • Edward

        For a beginner, a thumb safety is smarter over a trigger-safety gun. At least until they practice and get used to keeping their finger off the trigger until needing to shoot. Once they are proficient, then they are not a beginner and can get a safety on the trigger type of gun.

        September 27, 2023 3:40 pm
    • Mark

      For those with smaller hands, I can recommend the Shield EZ. Not only are the controls easy to reach and manipulate one-handed, but you can also get one with a manual safety if you don’t trust trigger safeties.

      September 11, 2022 3:46 pm
    • Andrea

      I am 35, left a domestic violence situation, have 3 kids to protect, and though after 7 years I have a boyfriend the world has gone bat shit crazy.. I have slowly revved towards guns give had one in the house as a kid but my mom never ever would let me learn to use it. Now I feel I have to learn but when I ask someone to help they start spewing facts about guns all over and it becomes overwhelming. I'm so glad I stumbled on this. Thank you!

      August 23, 2022 8:04 pm
      • Jacki Billings

        Hey Andrea! I have been in your shoes and I know how difficult the gun world can be to navigate. I am so happy you found our article useful! If you ever need any help with gun-related questions, don't hesitate to drop us a comment or email! Thanks!

        August 25, 2022 5:57 am
      • Tommy M

        Hi Andrea,
        Sorry to hear that. You are not alone. On the positive side, it's good to hear that you are actively taking your family's protection into your own hands. Perhaps more important than the type of self defense that you choose, is learning how to use it correctly. I highly recommend going to your local gun range and asking if they have beginners training classes. Also, some sort of safe that you can quickly access is good to have when kids are in the house, or when you are away. Pew Pew Tactical has some really good gun safe and training articles to learn more from, just type it in the search bar. Keep up the good work, and keep learning how to protect those loved ones.

        September 13, 2022 4:41 pm
    • John L Patrick

      Many things have changed over the years for me. Hunting is out of the picture. But club and range shooting, sounds like a great way to start shooting again. I will still go with the feel of any firearm before buying. A new rifle or hand gun, cheap or expensive, won't see much use if the fit and feel aren't right. Good guide for a start. Thanks for this review, helpful.

      December 29, 2021 3:07 pm
    • MR J

      Runner runner ring a bell? We got one over priced with 9mm and 40. Now what? Looking at reviews that don't sound good. Leary to test must go to range. Been practicing looking through scope. Any pointers?

      June 27, 2021 4:26 am
      • Nathan

        If you don't know whether or not to test your gun, than you might want to consider giving it to a more experienced friend, or maybe sending it back to the company for inspection. If you don't want to do that, than you probably should just test fire it. Because a gun, (especially an expensive one) doesn't do anyone any good sitting on a shelf collecting dust.

        September 17, 2021 2:10 pm
    • Bob E

      I want a shotgun, mainly for home defense, but some skeet shooting too. I'm debating between the Mossberg 500 and the Maverick 88. This would be my first gun ever.

      September 15, 2020 6:44 pm
      • David, PPT Editor

        Mossberg is a nicer finish gun for sure, but mechanically they are almost the same. If you want to do some skeet shooting though -- I would opt for the Mossberg since the pump slide will be smoother and help make those shots easier.

        September 15, 2020 7:40 pm
    • Santana

      You guys think $500 to spend on my first gun is to much or a good amount?

      April 2, 2020 2:33 pm
      • David, PPT Editor

        $500 is a great range for your first gun, not too budget but not too crazy either! I believe my first rifle was right around $580.

        April 2, 2020 3:05 pm
    • Scott Vicary

      Got my first weapon - Glock 19 Gen 5 for Christmas. Really have enjoyed shooting it and already considering what I want for my first long gun. Your reviews gave some nice insight. Also considering getting a smaller form handgun for EDC. I am looking forward to going through your Noob to Slinger course in preparation for my CC course/license!

      December 31, 2019 9:10 am
    • Robert

      I just watched the goodreview on the Glock .43. I want one! A good point he made is that the small sub-compacts we carry around are not really fun to practice with at the range. They’re snappy, they kick, and make you sore really quick. I have to agree with him. I have the long-barrel Glock 24 .40, a Ruger SP-100 .357 4.2-inch, and the Heritage .22 long barrel 6-inch. Those 3 are lots of fun to practice with all day. But especially the Heritage. It’s good quality for it’s price and the ammo is cheap. I have both the LR and the mag cylinders.

      December 16, 2019 11:32 am
    • Steve

      Can you carry a S&W Shield comfortable inside the waist holster? I have shot long guns all my life. This is the first hand gun I would like to purchase

      September 12, 2019 3:35 pm
      • RAE

        Been carrying a Smith M&P 45 for a month now. Yes it’s an easy carry.

        January 4, 2020 5:35 pm
      • Nathan

        You probably can get a soft concealed holster for it. They're is probably a manufacturer somewhere that makes a soft holster for it.

        September 17, 2021 2:13 pm
    • Zach

      To be honest...the MP shield does fit better in my hand than the Glock when I shot them. Better grip resulted in better accuracy....hands down ... shield is the winner.

      May 9, 2019 4:40 pm
    • Clyde

      Happy pappy, here come slappy.....

      May 8, 2019 2:24 pm
    • George

      For my first gun, I chose the XD9 from Springfield. I love the feel of the gun in my hand.

      May 1, 2019 11:53 am
    • Jimmy

      I chose the Glock G45 for my first handgun! I liked the size of the Glock 19 but was not a fan of the generation 5 cut out at the bottom of the grip frame. The G45 has a better feel in my hand. Check it out !

      March 10, 2019 6:42 pm
    • Cory

      Another great starting ccw pistol is the Springfield XDs-9. I own both the M&P Shield40 and the XDs-9. Both are comfortable to carry and I find the customizable grips and the fiber optic sites on the XDs very nice. It is also extremely accurate.

      March 2, 2019 9:31 am
    • Jacob

      What about the Tokarev I shot one and for the price and low recoil would be a excellent starting gun.

      October 22, 2018 9:37 am
    • Brad

      Seems to me that you are false my friend you are not going anyone except your own agenda which is to deter new shooters away by being an ass to everyone

      July 9, 2018 10:58 am
    • Jen

      the picture of the M&P shield isn't a shield. It's a Full sized M&P. Wouldn't point this out, except that it's for "new shooters" and a new shooter is going to look for this pistol at that price, and be very disappointed.

      December 20, 2017 1:32 pm
    • Colin

      My first gun was a Mossberg / Maverick 88 that I bought on sale at a Walmart. We were living out in the countryside in Maine and having problems with rabid foxes and hungry coyotes coming very close to the houses. I'd worked with 1911's in the Navy, as well as shotguns, so that was my next purchase a few years later. I went with a cheap, but great quality Elite from Shooters Arms. When I got my CCDW in Kentucky I was able to get a great deal on a Glock 19 from a state cop. I caried it for several years, but I've always gotten much better results with three-shot groups from my 1911, so lately I've gone back to the 1911 for carry. Recently, after taking an armorer course, I picked up a bagged kit for an M4 carbine. Many of the parts are Anderson and I bought an Anderson lower, as well. Their prices are great and they are right here in town, so it's like buying from my neighbors. I still feel like a firearms newbie, but I know my guns down to the smallest part and the most complex operation.

      October 14, 2017 12:02 pm
    • Tony Robinson

      I bought a Remington 870 Express Super Magnum first. Then a M&P 9 mm Shield. Then just for fun a Heritage Rough rider 22lr single action revolver with 6 1/2 inch barrel. I now also have a 1958 Remington 725 30-06, and a 1955 Remington 550 semi auto 22lr. All great guns.

      May 17, 2017 6:42 am
    • Ray Williams

      I've got my eye on a Thompson Center Compass. For the money you can't beat it., 5R rifling and a threaded barrel on a budget rifle, what's not to like? Also has an adjustable trigger.

      May 16, 2017 5:58 pm
    • Tim Gamble

      Don't forget the Taurus 709 slim I've had one for 5 years now and it's never failed to go bang when I wanted it to. They seem to be selling for under $275.00 nowadays and it is very compact and easy to conceal.

      May 15, 2017 3:07 pm
    • Big Al 512

      Glock Fan Boy, There are many More Guns out there theses few he has listed , Go out and try some , and whats Wrong with High Point ? They work, as I said , Glock Fan Boy

      May 15, 2017 2:35 am
    • T-Bone

      My first purchase was a Mossberg 500C 20-gauge pump with a slug barrel at an auction, for $150 in mint condition. Haven't regretted that decision one bit.

      May 14, 2017 8:08 pm
    • Timothy Padilla

      I would buy the Savage Axis XP before I ever bought a Remington 783. The price is lower the quality is way better for a first rifle and it comes in a ton of calibers.

      May 14, 2017 7:41 pm
    • Ed Brodnik

      My first was the S & W SD9 VE. 16 +1, it fit my hand, easy to field strip, light weight and it was available at a great price.

      May 14, 2017 5:40 pm
      • Wilbur

        Ed, that’s a nice choice. Certainly could do a lot worse.

        September 26, 2023 2:33 pm
    • John Guse

      Great articles and gunwise helpful hints. Don't forget Walther as a potential "first gun".

      May 14, 2017 5:18 pm
    • Trevor

      Thanks to this website and previous recommendations I filled out my list almost exactly, started with an 870, then a ruger m77, got a M&p 9m, (and a beretta 92fs) and want a 10/22 next, great advice so far and loving the journey

      May 11, 2017 2:45 pm
    • David Fellows

      I would add a few more to the Pistol list. For first time owners at least the Taurus PT111. the SCCY line of 9mm, A new one coming out American made Grand Power and Century Arms Canik series. all great guns for the price or for the budget minded

      May 11, 2017 2:36 pm
      • Andrei

        Grand Power and Canik aren't American made. They're imports from Slovenia and Turkey, respectively.

        September 11, 2022 11:14 pm
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