I'm needing to buy a gun, but I'm having trouble deciding which one. I need it for home safety, scaring coyotes, and just plinking cans. We already have a gun in the house, but it is too big for me to shoot. I can't even cock it by myself!
I REALLY want the Smith and Wesson 317, but it will cost me $560.
Or I can get a Charter Arms Pathfinder for $300.
I can't make up my mind, because I hate spending that much money, but Charter Arms are known for their very poor quality. I hate to buy something that is just going to break. On the other hand, Smith and Wesson's 317 is one of the best on the market. And the resale value is great.
Is it worth nearly twice the price to get something of good quality? Or should I just get el cheapo since I won't be using it much anyway.
It should be noted that my husband works at a gun store, so I am getting either one at a very discounted price. A 317 sells for more than that used!
PS: Update on kitty. Still having up and down times. He keeps going to the potty on the floor, but I have been able to get him to start eating a little more slowly. Seeming to walk a little better, and he got to sleep in our bed for a couple hours which he loved. I don't think he was sleeping well by himself.
Guns & Quality
February 20th, 2015 at 03:40 pm
February 20th, 2015 at 03:43 pm 1424447021
Not knowing anything about guns, I would say go with what you want since it is quality and will still be discounted, I'd go with the Smith and Wesson. I'd say keep that kitty in bed with you! We still regularly wake up with our room strewn with kids (and they are all getting big: 17, 16, 13, 11, 10).
February 20th, 2015 at 03:51 pm 1424447506
February 20th, 2015 at 06:12 pm 1424455930
February 20th, 2015 at 06:37 pm 1424457455
I have heard a Ruger 22 caliber handgun (pistol with a clip not a revolver) is appropriate for emergencies. The handle works well for a smaller hand. It won't fit in your purse, but it's supposed to be high quality for the price.
February 20th, 2015 at 07:16 pm 1424459800
Now another problem. They also have a S&W 63 which is the same as the 317 only heavier and better materials, the weight is suppose to make it have less kick too. But I'm not sure I can handle heavier. Arg. I need to go hold some again.
February 20th, 2015 at 11:50 pm 1424476245
February 21st, 2015 at 12:03 am 1424477004
My suggestion would to be to buy the appropriate ammunition and go to a range with someone that has several guns similar to what you think you want and who is willing to let you try them. It's kind of like test driving a car - what you think you like and is the most useful to you may not turn out that way. The couple of times I went to a range, I found out that a Smith and Wesson 357 with a six inch barrel shooting 38 special ammunition kicked less than just about anything else. That was well over 30 years ago, but I do remember the experience.
February 21st, 2015 at 01:10 am 1424481059
February 22nd, 2015 at 01:39 pm 1424612346
Seriously though, there are tons to choose from for your needs (that you have listed), and I would not hesitate to go beyond revolvers. Despite the fact that they are mechanically dead simple (and are very commonly recommended because of that), they are not always the easiest to shoot. I've seen women who have trouble handling .38 revolvers do just fine with some kind of semi-auto (many of which offer more stopping power at the same time).
I also would not rule out rifles or shotguns... unless it really has to be a handgun. Some long arms are user friendly and very easy to shoot. For example, 20 gauge shotguns offer enough firepower to stop humans and coyotes alike. At the same time, they are a bit smaller, lighter, and sometimes cheaper than their larger 12 gauge cousins. Shotguns like these also tend to be quite affordable.
The only downside is that their ammo is not among the cheapest (from a fruggie standpoint) but you do gain greater choice in ammo flexibility (slugs, buckshots, birdshots etc.)
Anyway, whatever you decide, I definitely recommend renting and trying as many as you can get your hands on. You won't always know what feels right for you until you hold it and shoot it.
February 23rd, 2015 at 03:44 pm 1424706279
Not to fear guys. I've shot plenty of guns. I WANT a short nosed revolver. It's my dream gun, it's not for 100% practicality.
I've decided on the 317 after going to the gun store again and holding the different weights. Now just to figure out how to come up with the $500. :/