Paul's Top 5 Handguns for Beginners

[@markcrupi]

not just a gun expert...but a master "on camera" presenter. Very few "professionals" can speak on camera for 3-5 minutes without an edit to cover a flub. You won't hear Paul stammer or say "ummmm". Utterly impressive at every level.

[@SparksX18]

i didn't even realize but wow

[@connorcampbell1043]

I know right? And he films it all himself. Imagine what he could do if he had a camera crew.. (not that he needs one)

[@Fenrir1398]

I suspect it has a good deal to do with his time in the military, especially as a firearms instructor. When you spend 20 years in the military, you get really good at explaining things lol

[@badcornflakes6374]

I think a part of it is talent that was then honed in by the military.

[@frydemwingz]

he really is great at this. in one of his videos, he says something about having a speech impediment. I don't know if that's some Paul humor or if he's being serious, but maybe his "speech impediment" is talking on and on with no breaks, no ums, or bs.

[@joestutzman4519]

SFC Harrel was a great platoon sergeant! I can't believe I only just now found his channel! It's great to see he's still above ground and doing well!

[@someweirdassdude5759]

I always wondered what rank he left the military

[@samuelalexander8030]

Did he have a good yell? Hard to imagine it now

[@detroitbloodrunsinme8194]

He got nothing on general hickock45 sir

[@realvictor2oo7]

@@detroitbloodrunsinme8194 Comparing this dude to hickok45 is like comparing a German Shepard to a Bloodhound. Both youtubers are based on Guns, and are experts on firearms (from what I know), like how Bloodhounds and German Shepards are bigger dogs and are some of the most well known dog breeds. But Bloodhounds and German Shepards are different, Bloodhounds being hunting dogs while German Shepards are Sheepdogs, these differences are also true for Paul Harrell and hickok45. hickok45 is more of your basic average gun channel, such as reviewing guns, shooting guns, experimenting, ect. While Paul Harrell focuses more on comparing things, informing people about things, doing comparisons, ect. But i feel like they both have a completely different personality, and direction. Hickok45 is more layed back, chill, doesn't tend to ramble to much. While Paul Harrell does often ramble on about things, and often tells stories about things in his life that have happened to him and such. But people have different taste, and that's ok. But comparing them (unless your not your just saying you think he's a better youtuber) is kind of dumb.

[@dakotahrickard]

@@grundian Same here. I like them equally and I like them both better than most guns channels. DemoRanch, for example, is good for a laugh; I always feel like I just hung out with someone, but Paul and Hickok are people I genuinely trust and admire. They have nothing to prove, nothing to hide. They just ... are.

[@lakeeriemonster4541]

“Negligent discharges happen primarily for one reason, negligence.” That’s why Paul is the best!

[@tribbleq]

Well butter me up and call me a biscuit!

[@ScottKenny1978]

There is a difference between an accidental discharge and negligent discharge. Accidental being caused by a mechanical failure in the firearm.

[@szylaj]

@@tribbleq biscuit!

[@abrunosON]

.22LG is, by far, the most deadly caliber in the world. People really think it's a kind's toy pea shooter so negligence kills a whole lot of people every year for decades. If politicians were in any way truthful to their declared intent of protecting people they wouldn't come for the 556 or 762 but for the .22 and bellow.

[@whatsmolly5741]

@@ScottKenny1978 that's definitely debatable, if the gun went off and you didn't want the gun to go off that's a negligent discharge, doesn't matter if it's technical or user failure if the gun accidentally discharged that's still a negligent discharge. Let's say you got a striker fired pistol , let's say it's a glock, let's say your channel liner is broken and firing pin gets stuck out and you go to chamber a round and the gun goes off out of battery, still negligent discharge.

[@austinstandage7698]

If you turn on subtitles, the gunshots at 12:52 get translated into "applause"

[@davidpayne9336]

That happens a lot on steve1989 videos when the flameless ration heaters are especially energetic.

[@kevinfealy4769]

It pops up for the Mark 3 @9:05 as well, hilarious

[@markiefufu]

I've been seeing that in a lot of his videos! Lol

[@silvirhunter3607]

Well, they're not worng. Sometimes it even says (music)

[@fproszek]

A range pals wife was having an especially hard time handling the family gun, a full blown .45 auto. I suggested she try my walther P22. After she happily went through 50 rounds they purchased one before leaving the range. Thugs know that any sized, red hot, tumbling, expanding bullet will leave a 4" to a 14" bloody tunnel in them. No wounded home invader ever said "she's only shooting us with .22's !".

[@BigBWolf90]

Or "that's a hi point. It doesn't count."

[@johnbrown4627]

My wife liked the p22 as well. She is defiantly not a 45 kind of gal. She was concerned about the side catching her hand, but Walters ride a bit high- no problem, and low recoil- sold for under 300 new.

[@virgil8574]

@@BigBWolf90 explain to me the hi point hate pls I'm new to guns

[@sammiches6859]

@@brandon1423 Get a .45 carbine. They can be quite cheap and actually fun to shoot.

[@paulmoss7940]

My P22 likes to jam. Any advice appreciated.

[@looperzooper8231]

Does Paul Harrel have the best gun advice for beginners on KZbin? You be the judge.

[@jcbalesk777]

Yes

[@reachvictoria3386]

Yes

[@semichiganandy2127]

Yes, because he is rational and understanding of what a beginner needs He realizes that it's about the beginner and not the ego of the instructor.

[@stephenmayer9228]

Paul has no recommendation in this video on beginning youtube.

[@rob.3575]

He's a wealth of knowledge.

[@thefilipinoknight6617]

Paul is probably the only one who won’t automatically say “get a Glock” :p

[@brnkis1984]

get a glock 19

[@rob.3575]

TheFilipinoKnight And he's right for not doing so.Nothing wrong with Glock's,but there are a lot of guns out there and a Glock may not be the best fit for a person.

[@thefilipinoknight6617]

Yep. Funnily enough, I wanted a Glock 19 for a long time. Finally got one last year, and it was as reliable as most people say, and I love shooting it... but I’m selling it now because it just doesn’t fit my needs, and I know now that when I get another compact 9mm, I’ll probably go with the M&P 2.0 for its superior (for me) ergos and the Apex trigger upgrades. Which just shows you that Glocks are nice guns, but they aren’t always the answer as to what handgun one should buy. They’re just one of the good choices, all things considered.

[@tatsuhirosatou5513]

@@thefilipinoknight6617 the apex triggers make such a difference i forget the model name but one makes the m&p trigger feel just like a 1911 trigger.

[@rob.3575]

TheFilipinoKnight Yep,Glocks are fine firearms no doubt,but thankfully we have options.I guess I'm a bit of a FN fanboi.When I went to buy a G19 I instead came home with a FNS-9 and when I wanted a big high cap.45 I came home with a FNX-45 instead of a G21.Again nothing wrong Glock's,I simply found firearms that fit me better.Again,Thankfully we have that choice👍👍👍.

[@P90XGetRipped]

I took my good friend shooting for his first time last week, and before I even put a gun in his hands, I gave him the fundamental firearm safety rules and taught him the basic stuff of how the firearms works. Now he absolutely loves shooting and has demonstrated all the safety procedures when handling and firing a gun. I got myself a new shooting buddy now!

[@likethedrinkbutspelleddiff4605]

My college roommate (no beginner to firearms) did exactly what you described with his new glock years ago. He took the round out of the chamber, took the magazine out and then with his off hand in front of the barrel pulled the trigger to take the gun apart, and blew a good chunk of his hand away. He was not new to guns and took them very seriously. It just goes to show that even experienced shooters can not ever get lax in their safety. He ended up making a full recovery and is still a person I would trust my life to with a firearm to this day.

[@zchris87v80]

Had the same happen with a sigma 9mm. Checked twice but luckily my hand wasn't in front of the barrel when the round went off (like a glock, it requires pulling the trigger to disassemble). It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when.

[@reborninsanity]

7:04 I won't even lie, I did this one with my first handgun. I had safely unloaded and cleared my weapons hundreds of times, but one night when I really tired I made the mistake of unloading the chamber THEN removing the mag which just cycled another around and I ended up putting a hollow point into my floor. It's still embarrassing to think about and I now triple check every time just in case I'm catch a case of the stupid again.

[@richardfewer9348]

Reborn Insanity Thanks

[@motorbreath-4172]

Yeah I did this too. Luckily it hit a cardboard box with some chalk in it. I never found the bullet but there were no holes that I knew of anywhere besides the box.

[@bigjimflying7195]

Hole in bedroom floor, living ceiling and couch. Oops!

[@totallyfrozen]

A lot of people’s friends and family have been killed by someone simply getting the sequence wrong.

[@chazluckey]

I made a similar mistake…I was very new to handguns as an adult, never having been around guns as a youngster…I went to my son’s house and went to unload for the first time in front of someone (instead of alone). Well, the stress of having an audience caused me to reverse the unloading. Fortunately, thank God, I knew enough to double check the chamber and out popped another round! That hasn’t happened again.

[@thomastoups3451]

RIP, Paul. You are missed.

[@Ifoughtpiranhas]

So, the .500 S&W Magnum Derringer loaded with 440 grain Buffalo Bore rocket assisted, nuclear tipped, shark tooth sabot bullets isn't the way to go for beginners?

[@dELTA13579111315]

It IS but it has to have a scope welded on

[@Ifoughtpiranhas]

dELTA13579111315 And don't forget the chainsaw bayonet.

[@dELTA13579111315]

@@Ifoughtpiranhas it also has to have an underbarrel .50 Beowulf attachment and 45° slanted iron sights on both sides

[@tomschrein417]

And be made of titanium so it doesn’t weigh more than 6 oz!

[@pennsylvaniafellow4409]

I prefer a 700 nitro express cutdown to 2 inchs. So far I've taken off both my girlfriend's hands with it but that was her fault I think

[@MaxFromSydney1]

I’m not sure if it is Paul’s sense of humour but he makes me laugh when he pulls all these hand guns out of his pockets, like he is just grabbing a chocolate bar.

[@tobysarsi6864]

RIP our dear Paul-his humor was low-key and deadpan, much like a comedian from the 70s, Bob Newhart.

[@HonestOutlawReviews]

This video really pisses me off! Only because I just realized I'm a beginner.... I'm not even ranked yet!!

[@MoarteaLunii]

Lmao

[@sertank735]

We all know that’s a lie. Love your content.

[@keithmcconnell3165]

Outlaw, surprised to see you here. Really enjoy your channel as well

[@josephpacchetti5997]

I know better H.O. 😉

[@StoutNerd]

Trivia: Paul's coat was made by the same manufacturer that made Mary Poppin's bag.

[@An123Observer]

And Hagrids coat

[@peternorton5648]

So true! No way this comment shouldn’t have 1k likes.

[@markiefufu]

I've only been watching Paul for a week and I think Steve McQueen when I see him in this jacket.

[@SPO.273]

Lol so true

[@markfaylor]

Sears?

[@hux2000]

I love how it's a top 5 video, there are 6 guns, *and he never says a word about that* - just carries on doing his thing. :)

[@BravoGorilla]

Great video. Something I do recommend when you're clearing a weapon is to go ahead and rack the slide multiple times and then lock it back. It's something I never did until I was visiting a friend who was showing me a handgun he was convinced was empty. He pulled the magazine and racked the slide without visually confirming it was empty and pulled the trigger to decock it. The gun went off and nearly hit my foot. Turns out the extractor had either broken or hadn't grabbed the rim of the cartridge in the chamber. He was moving on autopilot and a mistake happened. Ever since then, I've made it a point to rack the slide multiple times and unless there's a good reason for the action to be closed, it's open at all times just to be safe. The guy was a pretty experienced shooter, but when you get complacent, things happen.

[@thighcurlcontest]

It's a shame that sometimes it takes a ND or a near-injury to get people serious about gun safety. Knew a guy once who liked to get drunk and shoot at his range on his own property... told him multiple times that it was going to cause a problem someday. Last week he shot his dog in the leg. So yeah, like you said: be compulsive about chamber checks. Every time you pick up a firearm with its action closed, check it. Every time someone hands you a gun, have them check it and then you check it. And of course, pretend like your life depends on your obsession with gun safety... because it does.

[@artsmith103]

BravoGorilla I always look inside. Have a savage 22lr bolt action rifle that constantly FTE, in spite of Savage "fixing" under warranty. So even with handguns, I just check every time.

[@BB-nw6cs]

@@artsmith103 agreed, just look inside the chamber.

[@adeptronic]

Good advice. I keep my guns either; 1. Magazine inserted, round in the chamber, or 2. No magazine inserted action open. I have had no negligent discharges at my house.

[@Douglas-Ops]

BravoGorilla Good practice, I do this and sometimes am accused of being too tacti-cool. However it’s a fail safe for me. Like tapping a pocket to be sure you have your keys before leaving the house. Confirm then confirm again. 👍🏼

[@calbacoller897]

My goodness, this valuable information from someone who seems to have no axe to grind.

[@davidkrozy3283]

Rest in peace Paul

[@seatedliberty]

You really need to sell a morale patch that says "11th level heptagonal viceroy shooter"- you could double your patreon fund in a week.

[@prepperjonpnw6482]

Yes!! I would buy a crap load of them!! Seriously you should sell them lol Great now I can’t get it out of my head lol. I want several right now lol I’m waiting lol

[@ferdinandthegreat6169]

Me to Me to Me to Seriously me to!!

[@a.N.....]

Pin this

[@drakenilesovnguard8718]

This is amazing

[@keithhartman9946]

Please make the the patch a heptagon !

[@davidkissner6354]

Sir, your videos are so professional and I respect them so much. I discovered you maybe a month ago and subscribed right away. If I wanna show someone a video that isn’t joking around and gets to the points I’m trying to get them to see, I go to you.

[@christopherdean9684]

0:55 Pual you've been shooting longer than most of your audience has been alive. Your easily a Level 14 Enneadecagon Oculatus shooter

[@randywilson6068]

Nope.........Level 15 Enneadecagon Oculatus shooter

[@Archangelm127]

Randy Wilson Dodeculatus. ^_^

[@monsoonthagoon]

Please, he’s clearly a level 16 Revolver Ocelot.

[@btcave]

Paul had a .22 range in his basement growing up. Stacks of newspapers 8 ft high and 8 ft deep were the backdrop. His dad gets a salute for raising Paul this way.

[@justsomeguy3931]

Don't forget his early experiments with the "low tech fleece bullet stop." We're spoiled with the new fangled high tech version!

[@dougmartin8664]

Paul gives solid, practical advice for beginners or old hands. He also takes pains to show you the right way to do things, and he never shows off, his melon trick notwithstanding. I usually feel I've learned something from every one of his videos that I've watched, and that makes him one of my favorite gun channels.

[@MusubiSauce]

Man, it sucks that I’m getting into guns not long after this man has passed. Whenever I need knowledge he has a video for it. Thank you for being such a knowledgeable and genuine man, your legacy lives on in the things you will continue to teach us. Rest in peace.

[@factstraight]

Paul Harrell, an option I really like for training is buying a .22 conversion kit for the firearm the person intends to eventually use. I've trained people with .22 conversion kits on everything from P226 9mm pistols to HK G3 .308 rifles. Of course, the .22 conversion kits cost hundreds of dollars, but it's usually always much cheaper than buying two separate guns, and the trainee gets to practice with the actual gun they intend to use or carry.

[@ussayyed]

He Does not make Recomendations He shows us options worthy of consideration . That is 2nd amendent right there thats ur freedom . God bless Paul.

[@steviesevieria1868]

1st amendment actually, but I get your point.

[@416loren]

He's a teacher. Not a show-off.

[@christopherneelyakagoattmo6078]

Steven Sevieria Well. I believe usasayyed hussain is correct. The second is about bearing any arm: whatever you like. That's the freedom of choice. Not restriction to e.g. .357caliber or smaller, no semi-autos, pump, or lever action, 10 round magazines, or non-detachable magazines. etc....

[@ussayyed]

Well God bless America

[@tamlandipper29]

Brit here: I believe the point behind both is that government should not direct private citizens in their politics. Neither in word or deed. That said, as a concerned ally, the right to be a lying jackass doesn't mean you should be one. Or promote them.

[@gswovoka6286]

As usual Paul, you hit the nail right on the head!I recently, as a 72yo man, took up pistol shooting. I was trained in the army with rifles only. I started with a Heritage 9 shot SA 22. shot many rounds through it, and then moved to a 9mm. Then to a 38sp/357 mag. Due to cost, I chose to go Taurus. No regrets there. I have a snubby and a 4in in 357mag. I recently fell into a deal for a S&W model 19-4. The difference is clear - I have never shot so well. I do think it was a good idea to get the Taurus and shoot it a lot, so when I got a S&W I was not totally out in the weeds. I recently got to shoot a Glock 21. I was a little nervous about 45 acp, but loved it. Now saving my pennies...

[@seanmiller7187]

Miss you Paul.

[@Thothschild]

I just want to chime in that I'm a noob who used firearms frequently in my life but never got immersed in any education, analysis or culture. I'm very thankful for the knowledge and honesty of Mr. Harrell because after watching many channels and presentations I began thinking that most of these guys were just supremely egotistical blowhards! Mr. Harrell offers really solid, functional, sometimes funny, and genuine analysis and I just want to lend some positive accolades towards his great efforts! Great stuff man. Humility and circumspection can often be largely absent in firearm education culture

[@pavegray]

Paul is practical tactical Jesus.

[@hotchihuahua1546]

His legacy is enshrined in his videos that will forever be watch time and again for many of us ! Gods speed sir , you will be missed ! ❤

[@nitetrekker]

For those who cannot afford more than one gun, the S&W M&P 380 Shield EZ is worth a look. The slide is super ease to rack, the magazine is easy to load and even the slide release is not stiff. It has a grip safety as well which should help add a layer of protection from Glock leg. I think it's a great choice for beginners and even experienced shooters.

[@Tialian]

Wife loves her 380ez, although she shot a couple 22s and a 9mm before she bought it. She might get a sig p238 one day, not much recoil for a small gun. she does not like my bodyguard 380 though, grip is too skinny and she doesn't like not having a full grip.

[@gearhead2be]

I don't have much experience with a 9mm. I have only fired a few magazines in one. I have no experience with a 380. But in spite of my lack of range time, I would have to refer to what I have read on the two. The 380 is often referred to a weak 9mm, as they are of identical caliber. I have found the 380 ammo to be more expensive than the 9 mm ammo. If I were to choose one as my only gun and the price of the guns was comparable, I would pick a 9mm without question. However, keep in mind that I am 6 foot, 280 pounds, and with fairly large hands. I shoot a Sig 40 cal, am very accurate with it within 15 yards, but still regrip the gun between shots. I found the few times I fired a 9mm, I was able to handle the recoil quite easily.

[@johnbrown4627]

How does the 380 as draw with the grip safety? Things that stop your gun from working in an emergency if not gripped perfectly make me apprehensive to buy one.

[@kylejohnson1308]

@@johnbrown4627 I have one and I've never had a problem with not gripping it good enough that it won't shoot. Just saying.

[@kylejohnson1308]

I agree. Nice guns at an affordable price. Check the sites good when you get it tho my rear site was way the hell off to the left.

[@GunSam]

Thank you so much for the mention! Means a lot to me.

[@codyjack1090]

Gun Sam _Revolver Aficionado_ not bad😉

[@CrustyWhiteBread]

Nice. Subbed.

[@GunSam]

ch .kuhn Thanks!

[@CrustyWhiteBread]

Gun Sam _Revolver Aficionado_ Haha. NP. I actually just got my first revolver. I went in small with a Heritage Rough rider .22 with the magnum cylinder. Got it from Brownells for $128 shipped about a week ago. I LOVE IT!

[@GetMeThere1]

Wait a minute. I thought Yankee Marshal was the biggest youtube revolver loving lughead... Sam, I have to say I wasn't aware of your channel. I'm heading there now. Good to meet you.

[@dELTA13579111315]

I've been watching Paul's videos and I've only had one opportunity to go to the range since, but I had improved since last time and was consistently hitting steel at 50 yards shooting 38 special out of my S&W 686+

[@dreadjavapirate]

Excellent. Great to see an unbiased reviewer who is not trying to push a particular vendor, like some other "top 5" reviewers out there.

[@alif-a3796]

3:30 “Although mine has a 9 inch barrel, significantly shorter barrels are available”

[@jesserobinson20]

Oh I've used that line a time or two.

[@biz4twobiz463]

I have experience in that size, at least what I was told!! Eeeesh...

[@sammiches6859]

That's funny. Mine is only 6, but I'm quite content. 10mm is a bit thin though.

[@biz4twobiz463]

@@sammiches6859 ... I would hope you'd feel 10mm is thin. lol!! Let's go with a silver dollar at a minimum here!! LmAo!!

[@Galaxyrose-yn9kc]

Jesse Robinson nah man. You’ve got a snub nose disappointment

[@CaveWyatt]

I love it! What I tried recently was walking my wife’s friend through how the firearm worked (watch out for the slide!), handling of it, and safety instruction with my Airsoft S&W M&P replica, then went to the range to shoot an M&P .22, and then went to the M&P 9, known as a very soft shooter. This progression worked very well and had a good consistency of feel for her. This was the first time I thought to use the Airsoft gun and using it for safety examples made me feel a lot better than having her make early mistakes with even the .22, unloaded though it may be.

[@ronshekelson]

That Beretta is a tack driver... So is the man behind the trigger!!!

[@justinofboulder]

I was wondering what the sights are like on the Beretta? I have the M&P and shoot it pretty well, but the sights aren't as easy to pick up as on my 9mm M&P

[@MongooseTacticool]

You can tell he's shot it a *lot*.

[@MichelLinschoten]

Ron Shekelson one of the best guns I own I got a 80ts beretta the 90fs very nice 👍

[@marcuschauvin7039]

I love my Berettas!

[@prepperjonpnw6482]

I have a Beretta made in the 1950’s for Israel. It is absolutely amazing how great this firearm is. You can bury it in the sand go away wait a year or two come back dig it up and fire it at your enemies BAM!! Dead jihaddies lol It’s worth its weight in gold if you ask me.

[@jryer1]

Just one question Paul, can we please please have a "13th level octagonal grand poobah shooter vs 11th level heptagonal imperial viceroy shooter" video?? And don't spare the costumes either!

[@JayG1911]

Apparently there are some ranks in the gun expert world that I have not been educated on.

[@dr.floridamanphd]

He would, but he’s since been promoted to Level 15 Rhombus Paladin shooter.

[@punchyscyllarus565]

no wonder paul's audience is so civilized. its cause we're all gen x'ers. (read: an older audience) i literally said outloud "did he just say grand poobah"

[@normangerring4645]

Paul, excellent as always. I’ve noticed lately that some of my favorites now seem to be doing commercials, which moves you to the top imo of Professionals teaching and not selling. Keep up the good work.

[@GARDENER42]

I really like the idea of the Beretta 92 .22 holding the same number of rounds as the 9mm. Makes transition to the latter all the more natural.

[@DEPARTMENTOFREDUNDANCYDEPT]

I am new to the channel and I appreciate his matter-of-fact, non-political, commentary based upon his experience and personal knowledge.

[@mbmurphy777]

Gota love that jacket. Never know what cool surprise he’s going to pull out of one of those pockets!

[@kennethconner90]

yesterday i saw him quick draw a paperback

[@onpsxmember]

He should collaborate to make a signature Paul Harrell Edition. I'd buy one.

[@abedanielspictures]

It's a take on the old Flip Wilson routine. Geraldine would pull out a martini, a phone, a lit cigarette in an ashtray, sandwich... Paul: shotgun, grenade, 400 rounds, sandwich...

[@justsomeguy3931]

I want to be a firearms instructor and am training to reach this goal. Thank you again for helping with great ideas and info as well as inspiration on teaching style.

[@briansmith8079]

Wow, just browsing this morning and came across Paul's comparison of the 410 shotgun versus the 12 guage and now I'm hooked. 🤙👍👍👍 He is the most well spoken, detailed, non-bias, truly experienced presenter on KZbin.

[@KH-rt3ef]

He got me with his 5.56x45 vs 7.62x39 video.

[@Dialysisforever]

In the 80's, my Dad got me into IHMSA shooting. He started me with the Ruger Bearcat. Because it did not have adjustable sights, he let me use his Ruger Mark II. Eventually, I switched to a Thompson Contender single shot 22 and a Thompson Contender 7mm TCU. In 1984, I won Wyoming Jr state Champ. I still have both those Thompson Contenders. Thank you for the video.

[@MrChris-bx7ss]

This guy has more pistols in his pockets than a street watch salesman has hanging in a trench coat.

[@21specter]

Hey Mac, you wanna learn how to shoot?

[@wk5523]

I hoped for a third one😂😂

[@davidcbrainard]

Great video as always. Another choice I would mention is the 85% scale Browning 1911 in .22lr. I got one of these for my eleven year old son since I've been shooting 1911s for nearly 40 years. He may transition to a more modern design eventually but I'm a diehard 1911 guy and I like the safety features that the pistol offers. It has been 100% reliable and very accurate for close to a thousand rounds now. A little pricey but a high quality firearm. Thanks for all the great videos. I enjoy them all.

[@PaulHarrell]

If I had one it would be on the list. An excellent choice if you're planning on transitioning to a 1911. And just an all around good pistol no matter what you may or may not transition to.

[@Mrgunsngear]

interesting choices

[@dashifter]

Man you are extremely informative and fun to watch. Even though you aren't loud and blowing stuff up you are very easy to watch. Your information and suggestions are bang on. Despite your calm mannerisms I would hate to ever be on the wrong side of you. Keep up the great videos as you are teaching many of us good habits and providing excellent advice.

[@dvfd29]

love the Beretta m922, my daughter wanted to learn to shoot and after going to many stores she picked out this one, I ended up using it more than she does, it made a perfect gun for steel matches, on a perfect series i only need two mags, i am a smith and Wesson fan, and really pushed that gun for her, I am so glad she said absolutely no way. love your videos

[@andywest6250]

Totally agree with your opinion. My M&P 22, M&P 9 Compact and Full-size, and Shield have the same controls in the same places, made sense to me too. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and knowledge.

[@kellytolliver2390]

Paul i love your videos you remind me of my dad he was a M.P. in the Army then a mercer county sheriff's deputy and a West Virginia state trooper i was shooting guns with him i think b4 i could walk thank you for bringin back those memorys rest in peace dad

[@Sora2529]

Where's your tattoos and Glock 19?

[@UncleDanBand64]

LOL

[@NDCFreedom]

It's funny because I have tattoos and two glock 19s

[@Ghiaccio-x1j]

Let’s toss in beard and shaved head as well.

[@UncleDanBand64]

@Micca Thompson exactly

[@mikewysko2268]

Ha! I know that guy!

[@d.g.n9392]

Thanks for you great information. I’ve shot since a kid, my dad training me. Reminded me a little of learning to shoot with him. I’m 65 now. A couple years ago, wanted my wife to learn. We got her the SW 63 22lr.

[@Glock-Tec1]

Great video, as always, Paul. I taught my wife to shoot a handgun with a Walther P22, and the low recoil and muzzle blast helped her focus on fundamentals without succumbing to a flinch. After a few hundred rounds of that, she was ready to shoot an M-1911 accurately. She has small hands, so it was a good transition for her. Building a solid foundation with that .22 was the key.

[@HKPSG1Shooter]

Man, that first pistol you showed, the Ruger Bearcat, really brought back some memories. My dad was teaching me how to shoot since I was old enough to hold a gun, and the Bearcat was my first pistol. My first rifle was a Hamilton Model 51 bolt action. As always, great video, keep up the good work.

[@BubbaBlackmon]

I own the M and P .22 and it is a great gun. I am an experienced shooter but sometimes you want to train with cheap ammo and just have fun. Mine even came suppressor ready with a threaded barrel.

[@marie-noellebaechler1433]

Thank you for this very interesting video, as usual. Here ins switzerland, the "options worthy of consideration" are a little bit different. Most of the time they include the Ruger MKIV Target, the Browning Buckmark Field target, the Beretta 87 Target and the Haemmerli Xesse/Trailside sport. They also include a second hand haemmerli 208. Another difference is that our pistol ranges have their targets either 25 meters (27.34 yards) or 50 meters away.

[@maximilianmustermann5763]

The legendary Haemmerli 208, as well as the 280 are also in high regards in Germany for 25m target shooting. Too bad they don't make them anymore. The Xesse is now produced by Walther/Umarex and it is more of a budget gun and doesn't really fit any profile you'd need for competitive shooting around here. Never met anyone who had it.

[@marie-noellebaechler1433]

Thank you for your answer. It may be a question of terminology, but there may be a difference between smallbore "target" pistols and smallbore "match" pistols. The Xesse, even it its "sport" version, is certainly more a "target" than a "match" model. It is however relevant in the sense that a new shooter can purchase it for a more reasonable amount of money, and make its first seasons where the main point is "building one's basics" for a more reasonable amount of money. Then the person will be able to select a match firearm much more wisely. For example, sh/e will be able to feel much better which kind of pistol fits her hand best. The last point is that, at least, where I live, most people shoot "at club level". For them, and as long as they fit their hand, even an Xesse Sport or a S&W41 may do the job very well.

[@tennisguyky]

Paul is old school, keeps it simple and real! Keep up the informative videos man, really learning a lot from you.

[@stevencbradley]

THANKS for your videos! I enjoy them, and especially the fact that in your comparisons you like to keep them "apples to apples." I also appreciate your extensive knowledge, and the fact that you don't act like a "fanboy" for any particular caliber or firearm. Your videos are truly among the most helpful I've found on KZbin.

[@dumaflotchy13]

Love Paul's reviews. I learn something new every time.

[@peteyboy6629]

Judging by the grouping from the M9/22 he's spent a lot of time with the Beretta 92 series. Which validates his 'what are you transitioning to' statements.

[@PassDaMethod]

The M9 was his service weapon for many years in the military, so yes indeed he's incredibly comfortable with it.

[@jamespruitt6718]

PeteyBoy There’s an older video about the 92FS where he also mentions about winning several competitions with it.

[@rabidgp]

The 92fs is a dang nice pistol, heavy, comfortable, solid, not much not to like there....

[@randysouse-git531]

WHEELGUNS and some also rans. Love that you started with revolvers, especially single action. It does force beginners to LEARN. And us old codgers like 'em still for every day purposes.

[@CogentConsult]

Paul, I’m bringing new people into the shooting sports. I’m going to forward the link to this video to them so that they have a very good understanding of where to start and why. You always explain things very well, very clearly, and quite succinctly. Thank you. And keep up the great work!

[@Ghiaccio-x1j]

Excellent line-up. I have a Ruger MK II Target that I keep around for anyone that wants to learn to shoot. Started off my younger sister on it to overcome her fears of shooting a gun. Now she's become an avid shooter and can't stay away from the gun range.

[@deejay9474]

Applauds in American. (Gunfire)

[@nemoexnuqual3643]

I usually recommend considering a revolver with a swing out cylinder for safety reasons. It is close to foolproof for 90% of fools to ensure that they can at least tell if the weapons is loaded, much like how it is simple to see if a break action shotgun is loaded. If you see brass, it’s loaded. Unfortunately many people consider the lack of manual safety on most revolvers to be a safety hazard. No matter how much I explain the safety bar, the trigger pull in double action usually exceeding the weight of the weapon, and the ability of a double action revolver to be loaded without cocking the hammer, as in the case of a certain person I had just spoken to about this they end up getting a semiautomatic and shoot the wall a month later with an “unloaded” gun. As far as caliber, given the current madness most people are looking to immediately jump to a home defense caliber, given also the ammo shortages I tend to recommend.357 as it can also shoot .38 special so you double your odds of finding ammo given that they are both common rounds unlike some other one direction compatible chamberings like .44mag or .454

[@oleukeman]

Did you know you can shoot .44 special in a .44 magnum and .45 colt in a .454?

[@nemoexnuqual3643]

@@oleukeman yes, that’s why I mentioned them as one way compatible. A really cool one is .460S&W can shoot .454 and .45colt. I think it’s the S&W Governor that can shoot .410 shot shells, .45lc, .45acp with moon clips. I heard there was one that also did .454 in a .410 revolver but I’m not sure if it was just gunshop dreams.

[@patbackus7668]

That first auto he showed is a beautiful little gun ,my Dad had one , I put a shit load of ammo through it , never had a misfire or failure to feed , very accurate also , Thanks for the vid Paul ,🙏🏻🇺🇸

[@CurriedBat]

My gosh you are an eloquent speaker, I really enjoy your humility and thoughtful videos. Your 'speech impediment' must just be adding to the experience for everyone.

[@brucebelitz3451]

My daughter started with a Smith model 34 j-frame 6 shot .22 4 inch barrel. As we have many S&W revolvers she had no trouble transitioning to larger caliber weapons! Her first auto was a Colt targetsaman .22 that was a gift/ family heirloom from her great grandmother! I trained dozens of her and my sons friends in the same manner as you. Thanks

[@bruceleroy8063]

I only shoot Ticondas, so I don't shoot much.

[@kokocostanza2036]

I thought it was spelled Ticonnnnda.

[@fivemethoxy]

MY TIACONDAS!!!!

[@tracyhaynes5404]

They sure are rare, and expensive

[@jamesb1856]

Hey Bruce Leroy, who's the masta?

[@jimmyjunk3093]

I've got Hurtenburger Buscadarrow Tykeooondas, but I don't want to shoot my Tykeooondas.

[@larryy5166]

1 year update: look into the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ line(available in 380 and 9mm). 8 shot automatic, super easy to operate the slide(like 8lbs), disassemble/clean, even have assist tabs on the mags for loading! I like them with the optional ambidextrous thumb safety and grip safety.

[@CrustyWhiteBread]

My first pistol was a High Point c-9...lol I friggin love the thing...Ive had it 15 years+...I've never cleaned it, but for an occasional patch down the pipe & High Point even sent me a replacement rear sight, no questions asked & for free after I realized one day half of it was broke off and missing...WHAT? Now....At this juncture its nothing more than a range toy, but it always goes to the range and never jams. All for $109. Edit: And Paul Harrell definitely has the best comment section on you tube.

[@anonanonymous1988]

Hi-point c9 is a quality handgun at a low price. It just works. I'm a pretty experienced shooter but I still have a c9. It's a great gun to throw in your trunk next to your spare tire or in your tackle box to take on a boat or in a go bag or backpack. If something happens to it you won't be out much money. My only suggestion if you buy a c9 upgrade to 10rd magazines.

[@jwash3rd]

Yeah, my 8 year old 995T carbine has thousands of rounds through it and still runs perfectly. One of these days I'll field strip it and give it a good cleaning.

[@LetTheWritersWrite]

Lol Hi Points are basically like holding a 2x4

[@420anonymous]

All the extra weight from the C-9 slide helps make 9mm less snappy, which is great for beginners. I got mine two years ago, and with enough practice it's a laser at 30 yards.

[@hmw6237]

The first pistol that I ever fired was the Ruger Bearcat at age 10 (No transfer bar back in 1964). I absolutely fell in love with it and own a couple of them today.

[@robertflores477]

Paul is the best gun enthusiast and gun common sense teacher in our country! If you want to own a gun for the right good reasons please watch all his videos and become a better educated and respected citizen. Keep up the good work Paul. You come across awesome on video. Easy to watch, understand, and your knowledge is easily...true.

[@MountainFisher]

My little brother bought a Ruger Blackhawk 44 magnum for his first handgun. Couldn't hold 24 inches at 25 yards, indeed often completely off the paper. He said his gun was messed up, then I took it and hit the bullseye 5 times with a 4" group. I told him he's messed up not the gun, you flinch when shooting. We did the empty chamber technique and he literally shook the gun when he hit an empty chamber. Aft6er much training he got to where he could shoot it fairly accurately, ut he learned his lesson, start with a 22 or at least a lighter round than a magnum!

[@gregb6469]

Even Dirty Harry started with a smaller gun.

[@craigbenz4835]

I started shooting hand guns back in the stone age with nothing more than a brief exposure to Browning Hi-Powers and 1911's and my imagination to guide me. My first handgun was a Ruger Super Blackhawk and my second a model 29. Only later did I get a 22 and a 38 K-frame. Those first two 44s wrecked my handgun shooting skills for ten years.

[@MikeDCWeld]

.44 Magnum is no joke! I rented one at a range a while back and shot a 50 round box. That was quite an experience and I know I wouldn't have made it if that was my first time shooting.

[@lexboegen]

.44 Special rounds in .44 Magnum gun are relatively mild recoil. They're also still pretty effective as self-defense rounds too--similar ballistics to a .45 ACP.

[@MountainFisher]

Lex Boegen; That's how I taught him, with the 44 special, good comment, but those factory soft lead bullets lead-up the barrel pretty badly. I resorted to using the mercury in a plugged barrel technique, effective, but dangerous, watch out for the invisible fumes.

[@00coyote60]

I learned to shoot handguns with a Ruger mark 2. It is still one of my favorite handguns ever. (Although I recommend the mark 4 due to upgraded controls and ease of takedown.)

[@MongooseTacticool]

"I know what you're thinking. Did I fire 5 shots or 6?" Bad luck it's an 8 shot 6 shooter :)

[@justice4053]

You pretty much went over the exact order of handguns my Dad started me off with. Except after the semi-auto Ruger Mark III, he then transitioned me over to a .38 special Colt Official Police revolver to get me used to slightly more recoil after the .22’s. Then came the semi-autos in 9mm and up from there. I was lucky to have a father that kept a wide range of firearms, and had the knowledge to train me. I am convinced it has made me the shooter I am today. Unlike a lot of shooters I know, I can usually pick up any firearm and start hitting consistently after just a few rounds of getting accustomed to it.

[@jameswest1944]

Imo this is the best gun into channel on here. No corporate sponsors.

[@shawnphipps8479]

Simply fantastic! Never thought of nor had I heard of the Smith & Wesson or Beretta 22's. Those 2 pistols would be wonderful for training for their 9mm counterparts! Cheaper ammo means more training which is always a good thing! I have said it before, on more than one video, but thanks once more!

[@filianablanxart8305]

And on the same theme : The (sorta ) genuine Colt 1911 .22lr . Fully compatable for sights , fire controls, safteys , etc with "real" 1911 , so that you can configure it exactly the same as the .45acp 1911 of your preference . And even if you're not specifically doing the understudy thing , it is viable as a freestanding general purpose .22lr pistol . K Frame .22lr S&W's . A more direct understudy for centerfire K frames and larger , plus Legandary stand alone revolvers in their own right .

[@rheidtech]

"And remember although theres only 5 targets on the stand..." 💥💥💥🤣🤣🤣

[@mapley2167]

For some people, airsoft and BB guns can be great as trigger/breath control and safety is concerned. They can be purchased along with ammo for relatively cheap in many countries, and most areas allow you to shoot them indoors or in a backyard. Many gas pistols are full-metal and pretty much one to one copies of the original, and also have a blowback feature. A thing to note though, airsoft and BB/pellet guns aren't the same; airsoft guns shoot plastic spheres, while bb and pellet guns shoot metal and lead BBs and pellets respectively. Airsoft guns should be treated with the same respect as any firearm, but bb and pellet guns do have the power to seriously injure or kill if you mess up - let alone getting shot in the eye with an airsoft BB.

[@traumajock]

I do that with an airsoft CO2 pistol. It has a hard double action-like trigger. I'm wanting to find a CO2 airsoft or bb revolver with a realistic double action trigger. No luck so far.

[@mapley2167]

@@traumajock Yeah some of them have pretty stiff triggers. Sites online like evike.com have a bunch of propane/green gas and CO2 pistols with D/SA and "striker fired" triggers like the M9, 1911, PPQ, FNX, CZ, etc. They also have blowback

[@traumajock]

Rifle shooter, yeah. I've been eyeing that one. But no store is gonna let me open the package to try the trigger. Think I'm just gonna get it.

[@mapley2167]

Oh sorry, I didn't even see the revolver part. I don't have much experience with airsoft revolvers but I do know that there are various price ranges on them and I'm sure the ones from better brands would have smoother/lighter triggers.

[@christopherneelyakagoattmo6078]

Just to play devil's advocate here. While pellet, BB, and airsoft guns are fine training; there is a different level of responsible gun handling that happens when you are handling an actual, deadly firearm. And there are several lethal pellet rifles and handguns out there. As testified by the statistics, albeit small, of people getting killed with a pellet gun. Additionally, a .22lr handgun can be had for the same or less money as a good airgun. Particularly, a used firearm. Spend $400 on a good airsoft gun, or pellet rifle and you have a fine training aid. That same $400 can buy two (new or used) used .22lr revolvers. And you have a deadly weapon(or two), if you really need it. www.gunbroker.com/revolvers/search?PageSize=24&Sort=4&View=1&BuyNowOnly=1&ca=5000011&MaxPrice=200.00

[@VAC2]

What a wealth of knowledge this man has.....common sense and no "im a super operator!" feel. Love this guy and thank you for your videos!

[@kennethconner90]

he's a smoooooooth operatooooor

[@edbeals1793]

I've only shot various shotguns and 22 since I was a kid. I'm looking into getting a handgun or two and I'm finding a lot of channels offering advice on what to get... and now I've found your video on the subject and even though its 5 years old... I already know its the advice that I need to make an honest informed decision.

[@z50com]

My 1st handgun was a Colt 1911 Series 70, I sure miss that pistol. . .My 2nd handgun was a Browning Challenger III which I still own. . .

[@rabidgp]

Me too, first handgun I ever fired. Big smile....

[@brandonsimons543]

Yay! A Paul video!

[@LilSaint001100]

Man. 2018 and the only KZbinr that i watched that recommend Revolvers as beginner handguns.

[@patmancrowley8509]

I started out with a .22 S,L & LR Remington single shot rifle. Open the bolt, place the round partially into the chamber, close the bolt, pull back the firing pin, align the sights, and squeeze the trigger and repeat. This taught me shot discipline. Bullet placement came along with the ride and I just love shooting slow and steady.

[@bma8488]

This is Is only channel that even tho it has moments of terrible wind interference, the quality of the gun info is worth the ear damage...

[@mofumyon]

Timestamps for folks who want to know: - 00:00: Intro - 00:15: What even is a beginner, anyway? - 01:40: Ruger Bearcat, .22 LR - 03:17: Ruger Single Six, also .22 LR, but comes with a .22 Magnum conversion cylinder - 04:25: S&W 63, yet another .22 LR because this is about guns for beginners - 05:17: Ruger Mk3, .22 LR. Also, safety first! - 09:34: Training versions of common duty pistols (examples: S&W M&P-22 and Beretta M9-22, both in .22 LR) - 13:24: Conclusion and credits

[@morpheusgreene2704]

you will never be a real woman

[@MeatVision]

Thanks man

[@ilduce4298]

You will never be a real woman also thanks for the timestamps

[@morpheusgreene2704]

@@ilduce4298 lmfao

[@kajetandziebaj6405]

Awesome, thanks for reassuring me that my pecker won't shrink if I go for a 22 revolver as a first gun.

[@gearhead2be]

I carried a Sig 40 cal at work for 24 years. I still have it. I recently bought a Walther P22. I thoroughly enjoy shooting it. My Sig is a workhorse. My Walther is a pleasant respite from expensive and recoil heavy ammo. And I can enjoy teaching my nephews gun handling and safety without breaking the bank. Though I may not utilize my pecker for its intended purpose anymore, I haven't noticed any shrinkage.

[@me2bfc]

For versatility, it's hard to beat a 22 revolver like the single 6 with the 22 mag cylinder. You can shoot anything from 22 short to 22 magnum. The only limit is the maximum power of the 22 magnum and skill. If anything, I'd say it should grow if you added a 22 pistol or revolver.

[@PapajosTraders]

I started with a Ruger Single Six and prolly put 10,000 rounds through it before I bought my first magnum....a Ruger .41 mag. Far too many tough-guy wanna-bees start out with a heavy magnum and develop a flinch that NEVER leaves them.

[@me2bfc]

@@PapajosTraders I hear after the S&W 29 44 mag came out there were several available second hand with a free box of 48 bullets.

[@PapajosTraders]

@@me2bfc no doubt!

[@chrisboyd1408]

Thank you for very sound advice! Hopefully, the .22LR will continue to be a staple of firearms introduction and hunting.

[@allenatkins2263]

My father gave me a S&W K38 Target revolver when I was 15. That was 45 years ago, and although I have acquired other handguns since then, it remains my favorite for a relaxing afternoon of shooting.

[@11C1P]

I was quite pleased to see you went with 22LR as a great caliber for beginners. I've been telling people the same for years. I taught my kids to shoot first on a single action revolver, the EAA bounty hunter. A cheap gun, but I knew it was just going to be used for a year or two at best. I then got them going on a Ruger SR/22, which I was quite happy with, it has functioned flawlessly for years now. As my kids got older they had no problems shooting centerfire cartridges, mainly the 40cal, as I shoot a G23 & the wife has a Ruger SR40c. My two youngest girls were able to shoot the 40 cal by the time they were around 3rd or 4th graders.

[@midimusicforever]

That group on the lower target though! Daaaayum!

[@tacitus_kilgore7685]

And I hear that was the 2nd take. The previous one, he kept shooting thru the same hole and the cam guy said it didn't look right.

[@bobsilver3983]

I have lots of guns, and my favorite is my M&P 22...its just plain fun!

[@bobsilver3983]

@Blue collar Silver dollar The only ammo I have ever shot through this gun is CCI mini mag and stinger....never had any jams

[@hsmith3844]

If the new owner can put the MARK III back together properly after cleaning on the first try. Pass

[@NoBrakes23]

Yeah, I'd give the Mark IV the edge here, or just abandon box magazine rimfire handguns altogether. Paul did say this was just a list of worthy options, though.

[@hsmith3844]

Andrew . I got rid of mine before this thing you call KZbin was invented.

[@hsmith3844]

Andrew It was a JOKE. I'm a 66 year old guy.

[@frankbutta9344]

H Smith I have two MK III pistols, with full Volquartzen and Tandem Cross upgrades. I don’t have any problems with disassembly, and it would be too costly to replace them with the MK IV. The internals are different...

[@kamerad4212]

You hit the nail on the head. Paul prob rec'd the Mk III because he didn't have a Mk IV to show? I have two Browning Buckmarks which are also excellent.

[@tobydulanski3000]

Hahahahahah!!!! Paul you and the Crew are outstanding with the best humor. We watch this channel as often as possible and always find it educational and responsible. As always Thank You Paul and Crew for another great presentation.

[@sandjenterprises4980]

There are plenty of experts... but precious few know how to teach. Thanks, Paul, for another good presentation.