Best Handguns To Buy for Beginners
Are you ready to purchase your first concealed carry handgun? It’s easy to get caught up in the specs and the dozens of options out there. What you should be focusing on is comfort, control, and which platform will best support your learning experience.
Discover six of the best handguns to buy for beginners, so you can get the most bang for your buck. Below, you’ll find some of the top options in 2026. Keep in mind that the firearms were chosen based on safety, fit, and the manageable recoil of 9mm, rather than the “cool factor.”
Once you get some experience under your belt and develop the fundamentals, you can explore higher-end guns.
Why Starting Right Matters: Beginner Handgun Basics
Three factors will have the biggest impact on your progress as a new shooter. They are fit, recoil, and simplicity. The best caliber for beginners is 9mm because the ammo is affordable and the recoil is manageable.
Still, you should test several different models before spending your hard-earned cash. Visit a local range in or near Lakewood to get some range time in before you buy.
Want to try before you buy? Visit WESHOOT and fire away at our state-of-the-art range.
How We Chose These Beginner Handguns
Our team focused on firearms that are reliable and easy to use. Many of the options below feature a low-recoil design, meaning they offer a good balance of weight and size, so you can more easily keep the weapon under control.
We also prioritized models that instructors and training ranges frequently recommend. Our team filtered out any weapons that are overcomplicated or overly hyped. Instead, the list focuses on the best handguns for beginners.
1. Glock 19 Gen 6 — Best All-Around Beginner Handgun
Glocks are the default first handgun for most shooters who are looking for a reliable home defense and carry option. These simple striker-fired pistols are exceptionally reliable and have a consistent trigger. Many Lakewood ranges stock Glock 19 rentals, making it easy to test one before you commit.
The Glock 19 is a “compact” handgun, slightly smaller than the full-size Glock 17. The Glock 19 is a great starter option that’s easy to shoot, clean, and maintain.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 — Best Ergonomic 9mm for New Shooters
The S&W M&P9 M2.0 has a comfortable grip and low bore axis. The user-friendly controls are easy to familiarize yourself with, resulting in a soft learning curve.
Additionally, the weapon comes with interchangeable backstraps, so you can get a good fit, regardless of your hand size. It can also be a good CCW and home defense handgun due to its reliability.
3. Canik METE SFT One — Best Budget Beginner Pistol
The Canik METE SFT One has an MSRP under $350, making it an incredible deal for beginners looking to purchase their first handgun. The weapon still feels modern and has a smooth trigger.
You can also upgrade to an optics-ready slide option at a price point lower than most name-brand 9mms. However, you’ll need to budget for training and extra mags, as this weapon comes without any extras.
4. Sig Sauer P365X — Best Compact CCW Beginner Option
The Sig Sauer P365x is a slim, high-capacity 9mm that is a great fit for first-time concealed carriers. The weapon is easier to conceal than full-sized handguns, but it is large enough to be controllable. There are several variations of the P365x and plenty of holster options available.
5. Ruger Mark IV 22/45 — Best Low-Recoil Trainer for Beginners
If you are looking for a simple firearm with minimal recoil so you can learn the fundamentals, the Ruger Mark IV in .22 is a great choice. While .22 LR is not a good defensive round, it is extremely affordable, and the recoil is virtually non-existent. You can use this weapon to practice sight picture, trigger squeeze, and follow-through.
6. Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus — Best Beginner Revolver
The Model 686 is a simple, mechanically straightforward first gun that’s chambered in .38 Special. The double-action trigger is forgiving, as is the rugged design. Many Lakewood-area ranges stock 686s and similar revolvers chambered in .38 Special.
Why These Handguns Work Well for Beginners — Quick Q&A
Here are some answers to common questions from first-time pistol buyers.
Why Are These Guns Good for Beginners?
The first four options on the list are chambered in 9mm. While each weapon has some unique features, all of them are user-friendly and easy to maintain. The Ruger Mark IV is chambered in .22 LR, a great training caliber with very little recoil. The 686 is a rugged revolver that is simple and reliable.
Why Choose 9mm Over .40 or .45?
9mm is more manageable than .40 and .45. The caliber is also more affordable and easy to find wherever firearms and ammunition are sold.
Why Avoid Super-Small, High-Recoil Guns for the First Time?
Very small firearms are difficult to control and manipulate, especially if you are a newer shooter. A small frame and high recoil are a terrible combination for inexperienced shooters, as they can be unmanageable and unforgiving.
Legal and Safety Reminders for New NJ Gun Owners
In New Jersey, you’ll need to apply for a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (FPIC) and a handgun purchase permit. There is a separate application for a concealed carry permit, which you’ll need to complete after lawfully purchasing your handgun.
When you are ready to apply for your concealed carry permit, visit the New Jersey State Police website and follow the prompts. You’ll need to complete an approved training course before applying, which you can complete at a local range in Lakewood. WESHOOT USA is a great location for receiving quality guidance from experienced instructors.
Ready to get started? Contact WESHOOT to learn more or sign up online.
