I grew-up with a gun in my hand -- mostly a shotgun. About 2 1/2 years ago (1 month after my first son was born) I made the conscious decision to start shooting my pistol (singular; I only owned one at the time) regularly, just in case I had to use it for something other than paper. Fast-Forward to the present and I can say confidently I would pick 9mm round count over power of 45 ACP and 38/357.
Someone told me the most dangerous gun is one you don't shoot -- so I started shooting (in my wife's opinion, a lot). Whatever you get, make sure you consistently shoot it. Get something you're comfortable shooting, and shoot it a lot. Shoot against a timer or shoot a dueling tree against a friend -- do something to get your heart rate up and shoot under stress. Practice reloading. Practice dry-firing. Worry more about your proficiency than the bullet size.
This is worth exactly what you paid for it.
please note: I in no way believe shooting a friendly match is the same type of stress you will feel in a life or death situation -- I do believe you should do everything you can to condition yourself and be prepared if such a situation arises.
Someone told me the most dangerous gun is one you don't shoot -- so I started shooting (in my wife's opinion, a lot). Whatever you get, make sure you consistently shoot it. Get something you're comfortable shooting, and shoot it a lot. Shoot against a timer or shoot a dueling tree against a friend -- do something to get your heart rate up and shoot under stress. Practice reloading. Practice dry-firing. Worry more about your proficiency than the bullet size.
This is worth exactly what you paid for it.
please note: I in no way believe shooting a friendly match is the same type of stress you will feel in a life or death situation -- I do believe you should do everything you can to condition yourself and be prepared if such a situation arises.