Revolver or semi-automatic pistol?

Many people have asked me what I recommend for a first time concealed carry gun owner. I almost always respond, go with a revolver. So you may be wondering why that’s the recommendation I make. Well, first of all, if you’re a first time gun owner and don’t have lots of experience shooting, then you can’t go wrong with a revolver.

  • What are the advantages of using a revolver as your concealed carry?

Simply put, revolvers are great because all you have to do is pull the trigger and the gun goes bang.  Now for someone who isn’t supper familiar with handguns, I highly recommend revolvers for this reason alone.  You’re not going to love going to the range with a snub nose .357 revolver, trust me.  But this gun is not a range gun, it’s sole purpose is protection as a Utah Concealed Carry.  I also love that a .357 can shoot .38 special rounds as well.  I think it’s a perfect combo.  I know that there are lots of really cool looking semi-auto pistols out there, and they’re really great for general use.  But you have to be realistic and ask yourself whether you’ll be able to go through the semi-auto firing steps when confronted with a split second decision.  If you’d rather go with a semi-auto, then here are some considerations as well.

  • Why go with a semi-auto pistol over a revolver?

If you feel more comfortable deploying a weapon in self-defense, going with a semi-auto may be a great option for you.  The very nature of a semi-auto means that you can deliver lots of rounds to your target in a very short amount of time.  Having an additional magazine is also a handy thing as well, where as with a revolver, it may take more time to reload.  So speed is a serious consideration in regards to personal safety.  Semi-autos give you a wider choice of ammo selections from .380 to .45 ACP.  In the end, the decision is obviously yours and I hope that these considerations help in your selection for your Utah Concealed Carry.

. 10 Oct 08 | Gun Reviews


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