a reply to:
Grovit
Congratulations! A fine purchase.
Depending on if you live in town or out in a rural area, you'll definitely want to get a bit of practice in with your new shotgun, either on your
land or at a local range. If you're unfamiliar with firearms (i.e. never shot one) the recoil from a 12ga can be quite a surprise for a beginner,
depending on ammo. Mainly depending on shot size. Larger shot will give more kick. Buckshot is a whole different game than 6 or birdshot (8)
LEARN HOW TO HANDLE IT SAFELY! "With great power comes great responsibility." Knowledge is power. Also, you mentioned a family, be sure and teach
them how to handle it safely and responsibly for times you may not be home.
Like domo said, as far as pistols go, you really can't go wrong with a Glock. Had a Glock 23 (.40 S&W) for about 10 years now,
never had a
problem with it after countless rounds. And you will want to spend some range time learning to shoot effectively.
Laws do differ between long guns (rifle/shotgun) vs. handgun. Mostly depending on your local state laws.
Do your research on local gun laws,
gun laws for the most part only affect law-abiding gun owners. And you can get into some serious doo-doo if all your i's aren't dotted and t's
crossed.
If you're interested in getting a Concealed Handgun License, do your research first regarding state laws. There are some preclusions to obtaining one
(convicted felon, misdemeanor domestic abuse, more than 2 DUI/Public Intox charges within the past 3 years from application for example in my
jurisdiction.) I'd hate for you to drop the cash on the application and find out you can't get one. In my state (Oklahoma) if you have a CHL, the
waiting period for handgun purchase can be bypassed.
Like many others have said, I'm generally not a fan of online purchases. Mush like musical instruments, I'd rather see it, hold it, feel it, and
inspect it in person before committing to a a purchase.
Also consider that most home defense scenarios take place in low light conditions. Whether you'd rather hold a flash light or mount a tactical one,
is your call. Before tickling the trigger, MAKE SURE OF YOUR TARGET, AND WHAT'S BEHIND IT! Don't just pop-off at any shadow that moves, it could be
a family member or other non-threat. Buckshot can also have the problem of over-penetration.
And like you said, once you get one.... you want more. Welcome to to the gun-nut club!