When it comes to choosing a pistol, one can be overwhelmed fairly easily. With so many makes, models and calibers...which one is the best fit for you? Well, here is some advise for those wondering what to buy, if any. The key is to not be overwhelmed and stressed out with your decision. I've heard people say things like, "It doesn't matter, just pick one" and "The bigger the caliber the better....get a .45" These comments come from folks in the industry that really havent had much experience on a professional level, regarding firearms. First off, say this out loud..."there is no caliber or stopping power debate." Industry professionals will tell you its about "Shot Placement."
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When I first was hired as a Contractor for the State Department as a Firearms and Tactics Instructor, I had the privilege of listening to a Trauma Surgeon talk about wounds and trauma regarding pistols. The first thing he put up on the power point was 3 scanned images with chest cavity wounds. He asked, "Which one is 9mm, which one is .40 and which one is .45?" My response was almost immediate. I had no idea which one was which. They all looked the same. He said, "exactly my point. Its not the caliber, its shot placement." He then showed some stats on pistol caliber wounds and fatalities from handguns. More are killed from .380 and .22 than any other.
Ok, so back to the main topic at hand. I have been telling students and gun-owners for almost 2 decades that the pistol, caliber and ammo will not do the job for you when the time comes. (hint: get some professional training) All the pistol is, is a delivery system for the bullets. So when someone tells you to buy a larger caliber pistol because you'll only have to hit the person once...your response should be, "OK, have a great day...bye." That is what we call a "clue" in the industry. So, below are some free suggestions for you, prior to purchasing a pistol.
1. Stay off the Internet..prior to purchasing
2. Decide why you want or need to buy one. (IE, home defense, protection, recreational shooting, formal training)
3. In your memory, delete everything you have seen or heard regarding firearms...especially from Hollywood.
4. Be truthful with yourself regarding your abilities and willingness to use it or not use it.
5. Ignore the 19-year-old college kid behind the gun-counter who is majoring in Computer Science.
6. Don't buy one because it feels good in your hand. (you can become comfortable with any pistol, with time)
7. Buy a GLOCK 19 or 17...that is all!
Some recent HEADLINES:
U.S. Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Adopts Glock 19 (G19) Compact Combat/Tactical 9mm Pistol for U.S. Navy SEAL Assaulters/Operators. (Defense Review 2015)
FBI Selects New Duty Pistol - (EDITOR’S NOTE: The FBI just awarded Glock the $85 million contract for a new duty pistol.
SOCOM Adopts the Glock 19 - Elements of Army SOF have used the Glock 22 for years and are now getting the Glock 19. Army Special Forces Groups have received shipments of Glock 19s for issue.
Marine Corps Special Operations opt for the 9mm over 45s for special operators - Previously, the classic .45-caliber Colt 1911 was one of three pistols that Raiders were allowed to carry, but now the 9mm Glock 19 is the only pistol that Marine special operators can take into battle.
