Wisdom on gun purchase please?

[Richard]

I’m not trying to be a drama king here, but I’m contemplating getting both a shotgun and a pistol. I also intend on getting proper training AND then I intend on getting a permit to carry concealed (presuming that’s allowed here).

Last weekend, we had a big party bash out our way (in the woods) with the authorities closing off the road, cruisers everywhere and then several tow trucks. Seems someone (as in many people) were out in the woods near us whooping it up, a squabble ensued and someone was evidently chasing & threatening they were going to kill the other. (in an unrelated incident, we DID had a dead body show up on the OTHER side of the farm) So these rednecks DO seem capable of their threats.

So, with the local hardcore redneck population exploding and seeming to be showing more aggression, I’ve finally decided I’m more irresponsible if I do NOT have a means of protecting my family, than if I do.

I currently own NO firearms. We have NO kids, just us two adults.

I’ve grown up shooting firearms from time to time, so I’m not a “newbie”, however, I’ve never had any formal training.

I’m looking for firearms ideas, side arm, and shotgun.

I DO like the “cha-chunk” of a pump shotgun, because ANY redneck knows what’s up with that. I also like the semi-auto idea just to keep it simple & faster (if need be).

Sidearm? Don’t know much about them... (short story) other than in high school, had a police class taught by a cop. Went to shooting range with him and the class got to shoot his gun (38 perhaps??). I had 5 shots as I recall. 4 of them were within the first circle of the bulls eye with 1 or 2 inside the bulls eye proper.

Interestingly enough, there were only 4 holes, but one of them was elongated. Well, he only gave me credit for hitting target 4 times out of 5 (with like 1 1/2 bulls eyes and the others nearly centered) My contention was that they were ALL grouped nearby and the “wide hole” was the 5th shot. Clearly I could not have shot that accurately and yet, totally MISSED the target with 1 shot? He gave me “that look” and said “nobody can hit the same bullet hole twice” or something like that. I just shut up, figured it didn’t matter and took my own pride that I’d basically shot a tight pattern with all of them. I KNEW I had the bead on the bulls eye for all of them, so I knew I did not MISS the target.

Anyway I digress my point is, I know how to aim (fundamentally)

I’m NOT looking to start a gun war, brand war or other.

I am just looking for some wisdom anyone might care to share with me as I consider this venture further, as I’ve never considered myself a “gun person”, though I have nothing against them, nor those that do own them (legally).

Looking for ideas on gun, shotgun, training tips, concealed tips, should I contact the local Sheriff & let him know? Call him first and let HIM help me with above questions?

At the risk of sounding redneck myself, I’m afraid I’ve had some circumstances happen to me/my family in my life where I DO know that if something bad were to happen and there WAS a confrontation and deadly force was needed... I’m fairly sure I’d be able to defend my family & let the law figure out later on why I was put into that situation. Point being, I don’t have a gun because I don’t care for one... but I’d be willing to use it. In fact, if I felt it was necessary to use it, I’d be more comfortable using it lethally rather than to wound them. I’d only fear more retribution if they were wounded. Frankly, I don’t much care hearing myself admit that, but it’s true.

Anyway, I’m not “expecting” any confrontations, but recent events have left me clearly understanding how vulnerable we are. We live so far out that we’d be long dead & the perps would have their steaks on grill before the sheriff had time to make it out our way.

So it is with some sad acceptance that I finally feel the need for some form of homeland defense.


Any thoughts as to sidearm and shotgun, ammo (and why such & such ammo).

Hopefully (yes, I’m asking) we can all keep it on point and not let this become a flame war on any brand/style/other issues? I’d appreciate that.

Thanks

 

[Egon]

A 10 gauge double sawed off to legal length should do very adaquatly. Put a laser sight on it.

Egon

 

[BB_TX]

First off, using the term redneck as your are is inflamatory in itself. /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif I consider myself a redneck. I was born and raised in small town Texas. Grew up roaming the fields with a gun hunting, or just target shooting. Although I have long been in a professional occupation, I still consider myself more redneck than sophiscated. And I am sure statistics show more people are assaulted and killed by big city thugs than rednecks.
As for guns, go to a good gun shop, preferably one with an onsite shooting range. Talk to a good gun professional and get some ideas on what you might want. Try out several different types handguns to see what you feel comfortable with. Everyone has his/her own opinion.
Auto or revolver. Revolver is simpler, but most people seem to migrate to auto.
Large caliber or small. Large does more damage, but more uncomfortable to shoot.
Large frame or small. Small frame is easier to conceal, but usually less accurate at distance.
If you want your partner to be able to fire it also, then have them try it out also.
Same with shotguns. Auto, pump, bolt, single shot? Large guage, small guage? Check them all out. I would not buy a gun based on the fact the sound of jacking a shell in the chamber might scare someone. If someone unknown were around, I would already have the shell chambered before I confronted them. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[beenthere]

Don't feel alone in your thoughts and feelings. (edit: I agree with what BB TX said also)

With respect to your question, there are many guns that will fit the bill. I would suggest thinking of what you feel most comfortable with, and give it a try. Always can trade it in for something else (at least it seems to be possible now, and until the anti's make it impossible).

The Thompson Center Contender is a 'pistol' size gun and can be fitted with many different barrels. It is one gun that I will own someday soon. There is a barrel that will shoot a 410 shell.

I have a double barrel 410 ga shotgun that is small and easily held. I would want that close to me if in a squabble conflict. With a double barrel, there is one for a warning shot and another if the real thing is needed.

My rifle's are long range and I would not like to use them at night, not knowing the area 'beyond' the target.

Whatever you get, use it often to get and keep the feel and understanding of the safety, loading and unloading, etc.

I think familiarity with a gun is the safest way to have one. I don't own a pistol, and would hesitate to just have one in case I needed to grab it and defend myself with it. I plan to get the contender, with at least the single shot 410 barrel.

 

[Richard]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( First off, using the term redneck as your are is inflamatory in itself. I consider myself a redneck. )</font>

You raise a valid point from a different perspective than I'd been thinking.

My apologies for the ineptness of my comment. From my point of view, being a redneck isn't about from where you are born/raised.... but has more to do with your ethics, values & respect of yourself and others.

My apologies for any toes felt to be trampled, it really wasn't meant to disparage anyone, other than those who have no respect for others property & well being.

 

[hazmat]

Richard,

Granted I grew up & reside in suburban Massachusetts, but if I felt I needed to arm myself to protect my family in my home, I'd move.

You have often written about your trials and tribulations living near the TVA land etc. Some of them very tragic (ie the shooting of your dogs) None of it is your fault, but maybe you'd be happier somewhere else?

Food for thought from a "sophisticated" /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif Yankee.

 

[TresCrows]

I don't much like the idea of expressly buying guns for killing people. Almost all of my guns are hunting weapons. That said, I am a hipocrit, I have a Glock 40S&W and that is a killing machine.
For a beginner I would suggest any of the made for home defense pump shotguns in a 12guage. These are inexpensive and have a legal short barrel. For a pistol/revolver I recommend a Ruger single action pistol in 357 Mag. If you are a quick learner a Glock in 40S&W or the 357Sig cartridge is another excellent choice. The double action only action of the Glock coupled with the power of either of those cartrdges provides a low recoil--DEADLY--weapon with rapid fire capability. The Glock is virtually a no maintenence weapon as well.
Yeah, gun collectors, big time pistaleros and gun elitist don't like Glocks but police departments, military and people who use guns professionally do. The Glock is probably your best bet but I like single action revolvers because they are easy to use and safe (unless you are on the receiving end)
Your wife must learn as well and that is why I recommend hard hiting cartridges in a relatively low recoil round (40S&W, 357 Sig, 9 MM), what good is an auto if she cannot get of a second shot? J

 

[TresCrows]

Oh, another thing, I am a "redneck," from the woods and thickets of Louisiana. We are a tough bunch. Those who underestimate "rednecks" are doing themselves a diservice. That said, "rednecks" are only mean when they have been wronged--usually repeatedly--in other words they are a sweet and affectionate bunch /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif--until you make them mad /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif. Mad "redneck" are not a good thing /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif. Your best bet is to be NICE and make friends /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif. Once befriended by a "redneck", they will put their life on the line for you. They are the real deal. Oh, your use of "redneck" is demeaning and will make them angry /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif, they do not like being called "rednecks", that is a generic term best not used. /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif J

 

[gsganzer]

The decision to possess a gun is one that only you can make. I commend you on the way your going about it, by first becoming educated with the options available. Your efforts and prudence shouldn't end with a firearm purchase. The most important aspect of gun ownership is how to be safe and responsible.

The suggestions others have given are great. Namely, visit a local gun store or shooting range and discuss your needs and concerns. If the store or range owner isn't helpful, find another store.

Everyone has an opinion for what they think is best. By researching the subject you'll gain a better understanding of what best suits your needs and you'll be able to answer many of your own questions.

In my personal situation I keep both a Winchester Defender 12 ga. loaded with #6's, and a 9 mm semi-auto for home defense. The pistol is kept in a locked handgun safe that permits instant access. I highly recommend keeping the pistol in one of these safes in case of burglary (I wish I could find something similar for the shotgun.)

My thoughts on concealed carry:
I have a concealed carry permit and believe in the right to carry. However, I very rarely carry a concealed weapon. My line of thinking is that if I feel the need to have a weapon on my person, then I'm probably going somewhere I don't need to be going. I do carry one on occasion and I typically have one in the vehicle.

Regarding revolver vs. semi-auto:
Start out with a revolver. A revolver is never obsolete. They're easy to operate and easier to make "safe". You can always buy a semi-auto at a later date.

Regarding pistol caliber:
revolver- 38/357 or 44 special

semiauto- 9mm or 10mm

Whatever you decide, be sure everyone in your household understands where they are kept and how they operate. Make sure they're out of the reach of children (any children, they could be a family member or friends kids). Go to the range and practice with every member of your family.

Again, you're to be commended for asking for opinions. This is a serious decision that requires careful thought. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

 

[beenthere]

Wow, at this rate, we may see the term "redneck" added to the politically incorrect usage list. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

I don't think of someone referred to as a redneck to be someone on a shooting rampage in the woods. Thugs yes, gang members yes, etc. yes. (edit: and I agree with Cowboydoc's comment that Richard didn't mean no harm. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif )

To me, redneck is an endearing term. I would be proud to be referenced that way. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif