First Handgun

[eocoolj]

As I talked about in this post, I am going to be graduating college next spring. I promised my parents a couple years ago that I wouldn't buy any more guns until I graduate. As hard as its been, I've been true to my word. I realize May is still pretty far away, but I am already planning on giving myself a handgun as a graduation gift. One thing I am far from settled on is exactly what handgun I want to buy. I'm basically looking for a full sized gun made of blued steel in a moderate to full power cartridge (.357 mag, .45 ACP, .45 Colt, maybe .44 mag). It must be made in the USA. Here are a few of the models i'm considering right now:

1) Colt 1911 WWI replica: I love the look of this gun. Very simple, no bells or whistles, and beautiful blueing.

2) S&W 27: Another beautiful gun. Definitely want one of the older pinned and recessed models. They seem to be somewhat affordable, and I'm guessing they are only going to appreciate in value. Right now I'm leaning towards the 5" model

3) US Firearms Single Action: Not sure if I want a single action as my first gun, but its damn pretty. I'd get it with the 5.5" barrel.

Whatever gun I choose, it should be usable for self defense, but this are going to be more of a range gun and, to some extent, an heirloom piece. I'm definitely looking for something more than your run of the mill gun that is designed purely for utility; it needs to look good too. $1000 is about the max on this, but if i can stay well below that, all the better. While I will be buying more handguns eventually, I do have loans and whatnot to pay off, so this will probably be my only handgun for at least a year or two.

Anyone have any other suggestions?

[clyde621]

If I were buying I would go with the Mod. 27. That is indeed a beautiful as well as solid gun. The longer you wait the harder and more expensive they will become. Don't worry the time till graduation will be fast coming then you can join the rest of the crowd in tolling every day to make a living and worrying, etc.

[cu74]

IMVHO, the S&W Model 27 is the finest revolver ever made. Unfortunately for you, my opinion is not a minority one - prices are astronomical. I only have two - a 27-2 with a four-inch barrel and 27-0 with a six-inch barrel. While I also lust after one with a five-inch barrel, my firearms money is currently "committed" to other things. (Damn, just damn.)

I recommend the Smith Model 27 for your first handgun, although it may sour you on all other revolvers. I have Colt Diamondbacks and Pythons, and several other S&W models as well, but none measure up to the Smith &Wesson Model 27.

[eocoolj]

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[eocoolj]

IMVHO, the S&W Model 27 is the finest revolver ever made. Unfortunately for you, my opinion is not a minority one - prices are astronomical. I only have two - a 27-2 with a four-inch barrel and 27-0 with a six-inch barrel. While I also lust after one with a five-inch barrel, my firearms money is currently "committed" to other things. (Damn, just damn.)

I recommend the Smith Model 27 for your first handgun, although it may sour you on all other revolvers. I have Colt Diamondbacks and Pythons, and several other S&W models as well, but none measure up to the Smith &Wesson Model 27.

how high is astronomical? i have spotted a number of them on gunbroker, including the one I linked to, for in the $800 range. Not cheap, but as many will point out you simply cant make a revolver like that and sell it for that price anymore. Also, gunbroker prices tend to run a little high, so maybe i can find one locally for a little cheaper...

Also, in 27 vs Python, the 27 comes out on top for you? Thats high praise for the 27. Everything I've ever read about Pythons makes them out to be the rolls royce of revolvers

[DwightG]

3) US Firearms Single Action: Not sure if I want a single action as my first gun, but its damn pretty. I'd get it with the 5.5" barrel.

You won't go wrong with any of those choices. My first reaction to your list was get the 1911. Although the non-A1 versions are a little less desireable as shooter IMO only because they're more prone to bite due to the short grip safety tang and long hammer spur. I don't have particularly large or fleshy hands but I use a high, tight grip and the non-A1 1911s bite me pretty good. You may not have that problem or you can change to a 1911A1 which usually remedies hammer bite. And the 1911 platform is just plain elegant.

My first handgun was a Ruger Blackhawk in .30 Carbine. I've loved single actions ever since. I find them a pleasure to shoot and I really like the feel of the 4-3/8 Colt SAA. Probably not the best choice for SD away from home however. Great for range time and heirloom value though and may cause permanent Luddite tendencies.

The S&W...what they said.

So, I guess the best suggestion I have is "yes".

[Denis]

All great choices.

Of the three you list, I'd get the S&W revolver. They won't be making any more of those, so get one while you can. There are bound to be more 1911 replicas made, and the current crop will be available for a while to come. As it'll be your first handgun, get one that you won't be tempted to tinker with (a revolver, not a 1911-pattern), so it'll always be that first gun, not parts thereof plus some accessories.

I'm not really a fan of SA-only revolvers, so that one wouldn't be my personal pick, but it's sure pretty...

[SeekHer]

I believe that you can always get a semi auto 1911 clone at anytime from a stock to full blown custom race...I also found it easier to transition from SA/DA to semis then the other way around...

I absolutely crave, lust after, the US Arms Omnipotent in probably .44 WCF or Special...

Another to consider, I have SA Models 83 & 97 by Freedom Arms in .41 Mag and cost is almost the same as US Firearms and are available in heavier calibers, .454 Casull etc...

Whatever they said about the Model 27, ditto!

[Denis]

Oooh, case-hardening colours! That is a handsome revolver! I might just change my mind about single-actions...

[Joe ex PNG]

I'll have to say get a DA revolver first of all. With a particular 1911, you may decide, after shooting for a while, that you don't really like the WWI style. With the SA revolver, they're neat but a bit too slow in a self defense situation.

Plus, hey- you'll probably wind up buying all three down the road anyway!