Understanding the Different Sizes of Handguns
Handguns come in various sizes and styles, each designed for different purposes and preferences. Whether it’s for personal defense, law enforcement, or competitive shooting, choosing the right size handgun can significantly impact your shooting experience. From full-size handguns to pocket-sized ones, each size category offers unique advantages and disadvantages that you need to consider before purchasing. In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of handguns and explore the different sizes of handguns and the characteristics of each category to help you make an informed decision when choosing the suitable handgun for your needs.
Table of contents
Types of Handguns
Revolvers
Revolvers are a type of handgun that uses a revolving cylinder to hold cartridges. They come in various sizes, from small pocket revolvers to large, full-size revolvers. Revolvers are known for their reliability and simplicity and are also easy to use and maintain. However, they have a lower capacity than semi-automatic handguns and are typically slower to reload.
Semi-Automatic
Semi-automatic handguns are handguns that use a magazine to hold cartridges. They come in various sizes, from small pocket pistols to full-size duty pistols. Semi-automatic handguns are known for their capacity and ease of use. They are also faster to reload than revolvers. However, they can be more complicated to use and maintain than revolvers.
Factoring Revolver or Semi-Auto
When deciding between a revolver or a semi-auto handgun, there are several factors to consider, including:
- Purpose: What is the intended use of the firearm? Is it for self-defense, home protection, hunting, or recreational shooting?
- Capacity: How many rounds does the firearm hold? A semi-auto handgun typically has a higher capacity than a revolver.
- Reliability: Which type of firearm is more reliable? Revolvers and semi-auto handguns can be reliable, but some models may have a better track record than others.
- Recoil: How much recoil does the firearm have? A revolver typically has less recoil than a semi-auto handgun.
- Accuracy: Which type of firearm is more accurate? This can depend on the individual shooter and is likely a debate that could go 50/50.
- Maintenance: How easy is the firearm to maintain? Revolvers tend to be simpler and easier to maintain than semi-auto handguns.
- Cost: How much does the firearm cost? Revolvers tend to be less expensive than semi-auto handguns, but this can vary depending on the make and model.
Ultimately, the decision between a revolver or a semi-auto handgun will depend on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your situation. It is essential to consider all of these factors and choose the firearm that best suits your needs.
Sizes of Handguns
When it comes to choosing a handgun, size matters. Handguns come in various sizes, from micro and compact to large and powerful. The size of the firearm you choose will depend on a variety of factors, such as your intended use, hand size, and level of experience. In this section, we’ll explore the different sizes of handguns available on the market, their pros and cons, and help you determine which size handgun suits you.
Full-Size Handguns
Full-size handguns are the largest type of handguns. Competition and home defense shooters typically use them, largely carried by open carry shooters, law enforcement, security, and military personnel. Full-size handguns have a barrel length of at least 4 inches and a weight of around 30 ounces or more.
They are an accurate and reliable type of handgun due to their size and weight. However, their size can make them difficult to conceal and uncomfortable to carry for extended periods.
Compact Handguns
Compact handguns are smaller and lighter than full-size handguns. They have a barrel length of 3 to 4 inches and a weight of around 20 ounces. Compact handguns are ideal for concealed carry because of their size and weight. They are easier to conceal and more comfortable to carry for extended periods. However, hand size can become more of a factor, and they have less capacity than full-size handguns.
Subcompact Handguns
Subcompact handguns are the smallest type of handguns available, and they have a barrel length of fewer than 3 inches and a weight of around 15 ounces. Subcompact handguns are designed for deep concealment and are often used as backup weapons by law enforcement personnel.
They are one of the most concealable handguns, but their small size can make them less accurate and less comfortable to shoot.
Pocket Handguns
Pocket handguns are a type of subcompact handgun designed to be carried in an area as small as a pocket. They are small and lightweight, with a barrel length of fewer than 2 inches and a weight of around 10 ounces. Pocket handguns are ideal for concealed carry because they are easy to conceal and can be carried in a pocket or purse. Kimber Micro 9 in the photo.
However, their small size can typically offer the smallest size magazine capacity, and in some makes and models, recoil can be a factor.
In a Nutshell
In conclusion, handguns come in various sizes, each with its advantages and disadvantages. When choosing a handgun, it’s essential to consider your intended use, experience level, and personal preferences. Full-size handguns are ideal for duty use, while compact and subcompact handguns are ideal for concealed carry. Pocket handguns are the most concealable, while revolvers are known for their reliability and simplicity. Semi-automatic handguns offer high capacity and ease of use but can be more complicated to use and maintain. I hope this helps you select your next handgun.
