The Instructor’s Corner
Chip McEwen
Partner, SAT-C
NRA Certified Instructor
Small Arms Training-Consultants, LLC
ne of the most asked questions from OWu members
considering purchasing a firearm for personal protection is, “What kind of gun should I buy?” it is
such a simple question but creates a somewhat more
complex answer for the Firearms instructor tasked with
providing a simple answer. The simple answer is, “it depends!”
The decision on which firearm to purchase for personal protection
will always start with your commitment to invest the time to research
the information available and to thoughtfully consider your own
personal situation. Do not let some salesperson at a gun shop, husband/boyfriend/companion, or other trusted relative/friend make
the decision for you. This is a very personal decision that YOu
must be personally comfortable with in all aspects!! The scope of
this article is focused on personal protection and the purchase of
a handgun, but some of the points should be considered if you are
buying a firearm for other purposes such as target shooting/plinking, competitive shooting, or hunting.
Consider first if you are a person who understands the commitment
to personal responsibility inherent in owning and carrying a pistol
for personal protection. Do you have the emotional maturity
and control as well as the willingness to exercise this
Constitutionally guaranteed right in your life? Do
you know and understand your local/state
applicable laws regarding the carry and
use of firearms in self-defense?
You are purchasing a pistol for self-protection!