Hitting the gym to become a swoletariat, looking to arm myself as well.
I’ve gone shooting before, and my Dad just bought a couple guns himself because of all the pogroms he’s been seeing against Muslims in ingerland.
I’m based in the United States of Amerikkka, mods please let me know if this isn’t allowed!
Primarily for self defense, would look to get my CC eventually
Ok. My recommendation will be to try a couple different handguns out at the range, from the ones that have been recommended here. See which ones fit comfortably in your hands. Try a lot of them and take your time, don’t rush.
For conceal carry, focus on size. A gun that is too big or uncomfortable to carry doesn’t get carried. It may be a little less comfortable to shoot, but that’s the tradeoff. The big brands are the way to go (Glock, Sig, S&W)
If you’re looking to CC then aim for the micro compact segment. They have a good round count while being slimmer and easier to conceal than “compact” guns like the Glock 19. There are a ton of models in this space but there aren’t a ton that have safeties that many of us would recommend to a newer shooter. If you’re budget minded I would recommend the Taurus G3C, which can easily be had for under $300. But definitely put hands on it and try to get range time with it before your purchase.
Consider the S&W Shield 2.0 with or without thumb safety depending on your preference, very small but shoots great in the hand for extended range sessions. I have a 1.0 with an Apex trigger and aftermarket mag feeders/plates so that I can get 10+1. It’s a great gun with the same footprint as the 2.0, shoots great, feels great in the hand, conceals great. The 2.0 makes all the shit I did to my early 1.0 unnecessary - the 2.0 has a better trigger than the 1.0 and greater magazine capacity. Fantastic guns that shoot nicer than their pricepoint.