I’m 18 and moving out on my own soon. I’m looking for suggestions on a good home defense firearm since this would also be my first gun. I don’t have anything specific in mind or a set budget, but I don’t want to pick something without learning more first. Any advice?
Try going to a shooting range where you can rent pistols or rifles. Testing different models can help you find what feels right. If you’re new to firearms, a shooting class is also a great idea.
Vincent said:
Try going to a shooting range where you can rent pistols or rifles. Testing different models can help you find what feels right. If you’re new to firearms, a shooting class is also a great idea.
I’ve used firearms before, but since I’m in Arizona, I can’t own a handgun until I’m 21. I can own a long gun, though.
@Theodore
If you join the military, you can carry at 19. Edit: concealed carry.
Alyssa said:
@Theodore
If you join the military, you can carry at 19. Edit: concealed carry.
I’ve seen people saying a family member could gift me a handgun, but I’m not sure how that works.
@Theodore
That’s correct. Only minors need written permission from a parent or guardian. You can open carry at 18, but you can’t conceal carry until 21. Buying from a dealer isn’t allowed, but private sales or gifts are fine. I can send you links to the laws if you want.
@Theodore
The key is that it has to truly be a gift. If you give them money and they ‘gift’ you a handgun, that’s a felony. If they just give it to you as a birthday gift, that’s perfectly legal.
Pat said:
@Theodore
The key is that it has to truly be a gift. If you give them money and they ‘gift’ you a handgun, that’s a felony. If they just give it to you as a birthday gift, that’s perfectly legal.
Right, if you give money, it’s a sale, not a gift. As long as it’s a true gift and you’re not prohibited, it’s fine. I can share the specific laws if you’re curious.
Pat said:
@Theodore
The key is that it has to truly be a gift. If you give them money and they ‘gift’ you a handgun, that’s a felony. If they just give it to you as a birthday gift, that’s perfectly legal.
That’s called a straw purchase, and it’s illegal. But if a family member legitimately gives you one, that’s fine.
An AR-15 or a 9mm PCC (pistol-caliber carbine) is better than a shotgun for many people, but a shotgun is often cheaper. Also, invest in good locks, doors, and motion-activated lights. It’s better to avoid needing to use your firearm in the first place.
@Virgil
Exactly. Shoulder-fired weapons like AR-15s give you three points of contact, which is crucial in high-stress situations. People who worry about over-penetration often overestimate the risks of 5.56 rounds while recommending 00 buckshot, which is far worse for that. 9mm PCCs are cheaper to train with but require good shot placement to stop a determined attacker.
@frank
This is one of the most helpful responses I’ve gotten. What’s a ‘braced pistol’?
Theodore said:
@frank
This is one of the most helpful responses I’ve gotten. What’s a ‘braced pistol’?
A braced pistol is basically a firearm with a barrel under 16 inches that uses a stabilizing brace instead of a stock. It lets you avoid registering it as a short-barreled rifle. For ARs chambered in 5.56, you’ll want at least a 10.3-inch barrel for proper velocity. For 9mm, 5–10 inches is good.
At 18, you can’t purchase a handgun, but an AR-15 is a great choice for home defense. It’s easy to use, effective in close quarters, and works well in apartments since it’s less likely to over-penetrate compared to 9mm. A pump or semi-auto shotgun is another solid option.
@Jamie
What’s a good AR to start with? I was looking at PSA AR-15s.
Theodore said:
@Jamie
What’s a good AR to start with? I was looking at PSA AR-15s.
PSA is a solid first AR. It’s a great platform to build on later. Once you get it, consider taking an entry-level carbine class to get comfortable with it.
If you’re 18 and can’t buy a handgun, an AR-15 or shotgun is your best bet. PSA or S&W make good affordable ARs. For shotguns, look at Mossberg. Make sure to invest in good ammo and accessories like a mounted light. Training and practice are crucial.
@Lucy
What’s the process for being gifted a handgun by family? I’ve heard it’s legal but I’m not sure how it works.