Would love to argue some of this but we all have our own opinions
, but I agree 100% with the Shield statement, I have the 45 shield and it is excellent!!
Would love to argue some of this but we all have our own opinions
, but I agree 100% with the Shield statement, I have the 45 shield and it is excellent!!
I've had Taurus before -- pieces of ****.
You're better off with a hi-point for dirt-cheap gun. Or simply save a little more and get a Glock.
if money is not too much of an issue, i suggest going to the range and trying out several guns from reputable brands. Glock, Smith and Wesson, etc.
if you're brand new to shooting, i'd highly suggest taking an NRA familiarization and safety course, or getting an instructor. It could save your life.
You're better off with a hi-point for dirt-cheap gun. Or simply save a little more and get a Glock.
if money is not too much of an issue, i suggest going to the range and trying out several guns from reputable brands. Glock, Smith and Wesson, etc.
if you're brand new to shooting, i'd highly suggest taking an NRA familiarization and safety course, or getting an instructor. It could save your life.
I’ll certainly look at that before sending it off! Thanks!
It does seem like they are a little bit more compact also...which I like. I shot my sisters 9mm (not sure on what kind) but it was really large and she carries it. I’m thinking I’d like to get something I can use if I ever decide to go down that path later on.
First off, don't listen to the "Don't buy a Taurus" crowd, its like getting opinions on which brand of car to buy. The first thing I would do is look up a local gun smith and take it to them. Ask around in here for recommendations per location. They might be able to fix it for cheap or they will say it needs to be sent to Taurus. Once you get it fixed, take it to the range and try it out. No firearm should be trusted until you feel comfortable with it after putting several hundred rounds down range.
As for the size, each company has firearms in three sizes: full size, compact and sub-compact. If I remember correctly the Taurus you have is a sub-compact, or what some call concealed carry size. Now after shooting it you are still not comfortable, then I would look at different options. One thing to think about though is smaller sized pistols are great for concealability (or those with smaller hands) but they will often have more felt recoil due to their lighter frames. Even though full size pistols might initially feel cumbersome they may feel more comfortable to shoot as they can be easier to control. Either way, once you get a firearm you need to practice with it! Take some basic and defensive shooting classes and put in time at the range, at least once a month. Having a firearm is not the same as being able to use it effectively.
As for the size, each company has firearms in three sizes: full size, compact and sub-compact. If I remember correctly the Taurus you have is a sub-compact, or what some call concealed carry size. Now after shooting it you are still not comfortable, then I would look at different options. One thing to think about though is smaller sized pistols are great for concealability (or those with smaller hands) but they will often have more felt recoil due to their lighter frames. Even though full size pistols might initially feel cumbersome they may feel more comfortable to shoot as they can be easier to control. Either way, once you get a firearm you need to practice with it! Take some basic and defensive shooting classes and put in time at the range, at least once a month. Having a firearm is not the same as being able to use it effectively.
IMO, since in your words "you are a complete newbie". You should mayyyyyyyybe keep some semi auto and use it for practice, and get you a revolver in the use of defense. Remember Mr. Murphy, he pops up and the worst times. Even though I like the Taurus revolvers, their semi's are hit and miss. There are too many good weapons today that can be had for cheep, to rely on a company that has a spotty reputation at best. If this has already been posted, "SORRY"
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This is why I only have glocks. Never had a single issue with one. Sure there are other pistols that are great but I just prefer Glock. There is a reason they are the most widely used pistols in the world.
Get the Taurus fixed and as suggested run a couple hundred rounds thru it. If it does fine the friend probably screwed it up and it should be OK for home defense. If it has problems get rid of it and buy something else. I prefer revolvers for home defense but some like S&W, Ruger, Hi-Point and it's high priced cousin (Glock)
Try a few and pick what YOU like.
Try a few and pick what YOU like.
I'll repeat what was said above...
Friends don't let friends depend on a Taurus for self defense!
There are a few other brands and particular guns I would mention also but the fans of those would get riled up.
I'm as frugal, tight, cheap or whatever you want to call it as anyone, but please don't trust your life to an unreliable gun no matter what brand or model it is.
Friends don't let friends depend on a Taurus for self defense!
There are a few other brands and particular guns I would mention also but the fans of those would get riled up.
I'm as frugal, tight, cheap or whatever you want to call it as anyone, but please don't trust your life to an unreliable gun no matter what brand or model it is.
