Expert: Dean Speir - 11/10/2001

Question
Hello!

I was wondering if you could give me some advice on how I should buy a handgun. I don't have a lot of money, but I am afraid that one of the cheap deals at a pawn shop it would not be a wise investment. I want to use it for protection in my home.
Thank You

Answer
Hi, Fred...

I'm afraid that "protection of one's home" is a lot more involved than just getting a handgun.

A handgun can be an effective personal defense tool only if you know how, and equally importantly, when to use it.

That said, I wouldn't go anywhere near a pawn shop for a firearm of any sort unless I knew a great deal about what I was buying. (I'm reasonably knowledgeable about guns, and -I- wouldn't buy from a pawnbroker without a friendly gunsmith accompanying me!)

Many reputable gunshops have a used handguns section, and will sell you one with some sort of warranty, or at least a 14 or 30 day return policy which would allow you to take it to a gunsmith or a range where you would test fire it.

Remember, that with your purchase of a firearm for personal protection, you also need to invest in at least 1,000 rounds of practice ammunition, and some instruction. Part of our culture is that as males we have always believed that we were born expert drivers, lovers and shooters… with no credible evidence to support such fanciful beliefs.

G'luck to you…

- Dean Speir