First-Time Handgun Buyer? Here’s What You Need to Know (And Why Founder Arms is a Great Place to Start)

Thinking about buying your first handgun? You’re not alone—and you’re not crazy. With the way the world’s been going, more and more everyday people are taking ownership of their personal safety. Whether you’re a parent, small business owner, young professional, or simply someone who wants peace of mind at home, buying a defensive handgun is a big (and smart) step.

That said—let’s be honest—Walk into a typical gun shop and you might be met with a crowded, dated, tacky space with a counter full of options, an avalanche of acronyms, and unfortunately, the occasional employee who’s more interested in flexing their opinion than actually helping you. Some are great—but too many still treat new buyers (especially women or those asking beginner questions) with a dismissive or outdated attitude. That’s not helpful. And it’s not how it should be.

You deserve straight answers, practical guidance, and a firearm that fits your needs—not someone else’s ego. That is why Founder Arms strives to provide practical guidance and trusted tools for your needs. 

We aim to take the time to explain things, listen without ego, and make sure you walk out with the right fit—not just the popular sale. But before you dive head first, here’s some things you should know to make your first gun-buying experience smooth, safe, and smart.

🔑 1. Know Why You’re Buying a Handgun

This is your first—and most important—question:

Is this gun for home defense, concealed carry, or both?

• If you only plan to keep it at home, a full-size handgun will likely give you better control and easier handling.

• If you want to carry it daily, a compact or subcompact pistol may be a better fit—easier to conceal and more comfortable long term.

  
  

Founder Arms Tip: Come in with your goal in mind. We will walk you through options that match your lifestyle, body type, and comfort level.

🎯 2. Start with 9mm - It’s Really Not Up for Debate Anymore

The 9mm cartridge is:

• Easy to shoot (even for new shooters)

• Affordable and easy to find

• Effective for self-defense with modern hollow-point ammo

• Standard for most law enforcement agencies

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Don’t let anyone pressure you into a bigger caliber “just because” or “stopping power”. Bigger isn’t always better—especially when learning the fundamentals.

🔧 3. Choose Quality—It’s a Tool, Not a Toy

Reliable handgun brands we trust include:

• Glock

• Sig Sauer

• Smith & Wesson

• Walther

• FN

• H&K

Avoid bargain-bin brands or ultra-new models with no track record. This isn’t about trends—it’s about function when it counts.

Founder Arms Tip: We stock only reputable models and let you handle several before deciding. No pressure, no upselling.

✋ 4. Fit Matters: Hold Before You Buy

Think of it like buying shoes: a gun needs to fit your hand. Ask yourself:

• Can I get a full grip?

• Are the controls easy to reach?

• Does it feel balanced?

Better yet—If possible try before you buy. However, the crew at Founder Arms have the tools and knowledge to help make a decision that you won’t regret.

🧠 5. Simple is Safe

For first-time buyers, keep it straightforward:

• A consistent, smooth trigger pull

• No unnecessary manual safeties

• Easy-to-see sights

• Simple controls

Striker-fired pistols like the Glock 19, Sig P365, or Smith & Wesson M&P Shield are excellent places to start.

Don't forget your accessories! - A weapon-mounted light allows you to positively identify threats in low-light situations—because if you can’t see it, you shouldn’t shoot it. A red dot optic speeds up target acquisition and improves accuracy under stress, especially in dynamic or low-visibility environments.

🎒 6. If You’re Going to Carry, Dress for It

Concealed carry requires the right holster, belt, and to a lesser extent, clothing. You may need to adjust your wardrobe or routine to carry comfortably and responsibly.

Founder Arms stocks a range of tested holsters, belts, and accessories so you don’t have to guess what works.

The team here has spent decades carrying firearms and have made all the mistakes and learned from them so you don’t have to. We are more than happy to help you build a carry setup that fits your life.

🎓 7. Training Isn’t Optional—It’s the Next Step

Buying the gun is only the beginning. You need practice and training to use it confidently and safely. Starting with skills like:

• Defensive shooting

• Drawing from a holster

• Safe firearm storage

• Legal use of force

Founder Arms offers regular training opportunities no matter where you are in your firearms journey. 

🛒 The Buying Process in Minnesota (Don’t Skip This Part)

In Minnesota, you can’t just walk into a store and buy a handgun on the spot. Here’s how it works:

✅ Option 1: Apply for a Permit to Purchase

• Pick up a free form at your local police station or download from the BCA website.

• Submit it with a photo ID to your city police or county sheriff.

• They have up to 30 days to approve it.

• Once approved, the permit is good for 1 year.

✅ Option 2: Already Have a Permit to Carry?

• Good news: It acts as your purchase permit too.

• If it’s valid, you can buy a handgun and potentially take it home same-day after completing a background check right here in the shop.

🕐 No Permit Yet? No problem:

• Founder Arms offers Permit to Carry courses every month. Learn more here: www.FounderArmsTraining.Com

🚨 Final Advice: Don’t Let Ego or Internet Noise Steer You

There’s a lot of noise out there—YouTube gun guys, “gun shop commandos,” and that one loud friend who thinks bigger, louder, and heavier is always better.

Ignore it.

This is your defensive tool. It needs to match your hand, your lifestyle, your skill level, and your reason for carrying.

And that’s exactly why we'd love to have you stop into our shop for your first purchase. We take new buyers seriously, treat questions with respect, and care about sending you home with the right fit—not just the hot item of the month.

🧭 Ready to Start?

Whether you're just beginning or already know what you're looking for, Founder Arms is the kind of gun shop that strives to get it right:

• Friendly, pressure-free staff

• Only trusted brands and gear

• Help with permits and next steps

• Regular Training Opportunities

Stay safe. Stay prepared. You’ve got this.