[rjh200]

So after being licensed for some time now I have finally gone and set up the purchase of my first pistol. I have been to the range a few times to try out diffent guns, but I have never owned one. Now that I will finally have my own I am looking for some information.

~Things that I need that I might not think of.
~Reasonably priced quality rounds for the range and good places to buy.
~Looking for recommendations on a good quality safe for a reasonable price.
~Good sources of information to read up on tips, product reviews, cleaning, etc.

Pretty much looking for any advice or information that you would give to somebody purchasing their first firearm.

Thanks,
Randy

[DaSpence]

Get yourself a nice cleaning kit

[richw]

All m y guns are stainless... no worries

Get some high capacity before some democrat makes it illegal

Target 22
Protection some smaller auto
9mm cheap ammo, 40 good stopping
professional killer small frame revolver

I have

ruger target 22
Para p14 45 auto
s&w 6 inch 357
s&w featherweight 357

[Ducrappy]

Since you're in MA, internet ammo purchasing is pretty much out of the question. There are one or two companies that will sell to you in MA, but I have no idea who they are, and most people keep that info to themselves. But seeing as you are in Chelmsford, take some trips north to the free state (NH) for some ammo. You can pick up Winchester White Box for pretty cheap at Walmart.

There are sometimes some good deals on Speer Lawman ammo (my range round of choice) at Riley's in Hooksett NH. Last time I was up there, they also had 50 round boxes of Speer Gold Dot (self defense rounds) for a great price. They also sell bulk packs of paper targets that you can stock up on.

For cleaning, try to pick up a bore snake. These things make quick work of bore cleaning.

Also, for other info, check out Northeastshooters.com - Powered by vBulletin
There are a handful of us NESR folk on that forum as well

Also, speed loaders are your friend. HKS - SPEED LOADERS - Top Gun Supply

[rjh200]

Thanks for the Info Duc. I do some reading.

Rich, I already have one paid for just have to go back and pick it up. Went in looking at the SIG P229 but I ended up with this.

Product: P99QA Pistol - 9mm

The fit, feel and balance just felt right in my hand. This is simply going to be a range piece and I plan on going back for the SIG a little later but in the 40 instead of 9. Although they did have a pretty sweet P229 used with 5 mags, 2 of which we hi-cap.

[TheIglu]

I just picked up my P226 9mm on Saturday morning. Took it right to the range and put 100+ rounds through it. Felt good though as the day progressed, it started getting picky with the reloads that my local shops threw in with the purchase. I have two hi-cap mags with mine. Not sure if it was mainly the rounds or the lack of lubrication. I got it home and gave it a good cleaning and the action feels much better.

Just curious, how much was the used 226 you saw?

+1 on going to Wal-Mart in NH. Quality ammo is CHEAP!

[naked-daytrader]

Originally Posted by richw

All m y guns are stainless... no worries

Get some high capacity before some democrat makes it illegal

Target 22
Protection some smaller auto
9mm cheap ammo, 40 good stopping
professional killer small frame revolver

I have

ruger target 22
Para p14 45 auto
s&w 6 inch 357
s&w featherweight 357

I've shot a ruger 22, loved it. I own an AK 47 (sks). Shoots like shit but I got it in the Gulf war from under some dead Iraqi.......works just the same I guess.

[rjh200]

The 229 was stickered at I think 850.

[richw]

walthers are all good

9mm you can get a lot of cheap ammo

[number9]

I have a P226 in 9mm and I love it; I shoot IDPA with it & it's great all day long. I pay about $14 for 100rds of Winchester target stuff from Wal-Mart.

[noudidnt]

walther makes a great 22, with the ten round clip, is a lot of fun to shoot.
As far as the 9mm, I have a Glock that I brought in from out of state, newer model 17 after the 98 ban.
For a 9mm I would look into the Glocks. They are only sold in Ma pre 10/98, but you can send it back to Glock and they will rebuild it for free and send it back to you. They kick a little but are very accurate.
If you are looking for a nice stable one, look into the Glock 40. They price aroung 400 to 450.
Not much kick, and does not rise much, White box ammo is about 18.99 at wally world.
Stay away from the reloads on the Walther however. The lead rounds really screw up the mechanics and make cleaning a real PIA.......
I am looking for a mini 14 varmint gun for long range....have tried the AK 7.62, and the 30/06....but like the 223 rounds better.

[TheIglu]

Go with an H&R .223. Cheap, reliable and dead on accurate.

I love my P226 in 9mm. Doesn't like non-jacketed rounds though.....