A small gun, something that will fit in my purse or pocket, that’s what I have been researching lately. I am not afraid, but the new farmstead is much more isolated and I would feel better if I knew enough about firing guns to protect myself and my flock and herds from predators. Since I have never carried a gun before, I am going to the experts, the Team Members of the eight Buchheit stores for their best tips and advice on the right gun for this older pistol packing mama!
This is Bob, the Herculaneum store sporting goods department manager. I gained some invaluable insights as he shared a minute portion of his extensive knowledge of firearms with me. I liked how he didn’t talk down to me, but rather asked me questions on how I saw myself using this weapon and if I was a seasoned marksman.
“If you are not comfortable with the gun, you will not shoot that gun,” Bob said.
I could tell that he was after not just selling products but fitting the customer with the right gun for their need. He stated that 9 out of 10 women chose a gun that had too much recoil and that factor alone prevented them from becoming proficient with their firearm.
My sons were telling me that since I was a novice, I should go with a pistol called the Judge that shot a shotgun shell so that with its scatter pattern I might hit something. Bob understood why they were suggesting it but his choice made more sense to me. My sons were not taking into consideration how recoil would affect me. One with too much recoil would startle me, making me wary of practicing my aim. A big recoil would also reduce my chances of getting off a clean second or third shot.
I was looking at the tiny guns that I could slip into a purse but Bob passed on some more words of wisdom, “the lighter the gun, the more recoil.” Well out the window went all those cute little derringers. I want something that I can practice using and not have a sore shoulder the next morning. Bob stated that a heavy gun sucks up the recoil and one with a full magazine adds weight and balances out the gun as well as providing more ammo.
Bob’s pick for me was the Torus PT 111 with 12 rounds in the clip. It uses 9 mm shells which is another plus as the ammo is cheaper. He also instructed me in the importance of a pinkie guard. A longer stock upon which I can rest all my fingers will increase my accuracy.
Bob was wonderful! I came away with a much better idea of what would work for my first handgun. While I am sold on his suggestion, I intend to interview the other seven Team Members for their advice also. Sure hope I can be finished with that before the Ladies’ Night at Buchheit. With the discount prices I plan on picking up my new handgun that evening. Be blessed and stay safe! Anne May
