9mm vs .45 for a first gun — does it matter?
I know this is probably asked daily but as a new shooter should I go 9mm? The 9mm has cheaper ammo but I keep hearing .45 is what the military used.
Just want the honest answer, not the caliber war.
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I went through this same decision last year when I bought my first pistol. Ended up with a Glock 19 in 9mm and I'm so glad I did. The ammo cost difference is huge - I can practice way more often without breaking the bank. Plus 9mm is everywhere and the recoil is totally manageable. The .45 my friend let me try was harder to control and way more expensive to feed.
For a first gun? Go 9mm and don't look back. Cheaper to practice with, easier to control, and modern 9mm defensive loads are plenty effective. The .45 vs 9mm debate is mostly old-timer nostalgia at this point. You'll shoot more with 9mm because it's cheaper, and shooting more makes you better.
+1 on this. My buddy had the same issue and switching to DeSantis Slim-Tuk fixed it for him.
I'd love to see some photos if you get a chance to post them.
This is exactly why I joined this forum. Good discussion.
This is the content I come here for. Thanks OP.