A: This is one of the most difficult questions to answer. It is also one of the most important. It can be answered by asking yourself two main questions. Each of those questions will lead to more questions. However, with each question you answer you will narrow down the list of choices.
The first one is, what do you intend to use the gun for? Is it to be used for recreation? (Target shooting?) Is it for hunting, or is it to be used for self-defense? If it’s for self-defense, is it for personal protection? (Something you want to carry on your person?) Is it for home defense? (Something to be kept at home?) These are the kinds of questions that will help you to make your decision.
The second question is, does the gun physically fit my hand, and can I operate it? (Some guns require more hand strength to operate than others. Some guns are very heavy, some are very small.) Guns are something of a personal choice. Think of it like this. You wouldn’t use a butter knife to chop down an oak tree, nor would you use an axe, to cut your stake. Your local gun dealer can help you to make an informed choice, and they can help you to ask yourself the right questions to narrow your list of options.
A: All guns recoil differently. The main difference in perceived recoil is determined by the caliber of the gun. For example, a .38 caliber. doesn’t kick as hard as a .45 caliber. However two guns of the same caliber, but different make and model, will feel different. That is what is meant by perceived recoil.
A: Most guns have the caliber of ammunition they were designed to use stamped directly into the metal of the gun itself. Most of the time it can be found on the barrel of the gun. However, not all guns have that information stamped into them. Some older guns don’t have the ammunition type stamped into them at all. Ammunition type can also be found in the owner’s manual or ask your local gun dealer.
It is critical that you use only the recommended ammunition for your gun. Sometimes it can be a little confusing. We go to the gun shop and ask for 9MM ammunition for example. We might be asked 9mm, or 9mm+P? The manufacturer of the gun designed it for a specific pressure range of ammunition. Some guns are rated for the higher pressure of the 9mm+P ammunition. Some are not! If you aren’t sure what ammunition to buy, tell the gun dealer what make and model gun you own and ask what he or she recommends! If the gun dealer isn’t sure, err on the side of caution. Buy the lower pressure ammunition. If your gun isn’t rated for the higher pressure ammunition, it could sustain damage, or possibly even explode in your hand causing severe injury.
A: Yes. Polymer guns are safe, provided you follow the manufacturers recommendations, use the right ammunition for the gun, and maintain the gun properly.
A: No. Some guns are of superior quality. As with all manufactured products, there are differences in design, manufacturing techniques, materials, and workmanship.
Some guns are pricier than others. However, more expensive isn’t always better. Sometimes you might be paying for a name. Your local gun dealer can usually help you with that. In my experience most gun dealers are reputable and will try to help you to the best of their ability.