Are you in the market for your first handgun, for target use or for self-defense? The Winchester Blog has a good article for handgun buyers. This story, “Things You Should Know When Purchasing Your First Pistol”, provides many smart tips that can help you choose the right handgun, and save money in the process. In addition, the article explains how to train with your new pistol and handle it safely. READ Full Article.
If possible, you should test a variety of different pistols, to determine which works best for you. Check the feel, the ergonomics, the sight picture, and the controls. And, if possible, test the pistols with live-fire at a range which rents samples.
How do you know if your choice is right for you?
Once you’ve narrowed down choices, try to get time shooting the pistol(s) you are considering. You can usually rent guns at commercial ranges. This is an excellent way to “try before you buy.” NSSF has a list of places to shoot[.] When looking for a range that rents firearms, an online search and then a phone call to confirm what options are available is a solid plan. If you have friends and family who own a model you are interested in, ask if they will go to the range with you so that you can try it.
Take pistols for a test drive
First, dry-fire and manipulate the pistol. Can you easily lock the slide open? Are the sights suited to your vision? Then, fire a magazine or two of ammo [in a supervised range facility]. — Winchester Blog
The Winchester Blog article lists techniques that can help you get the “feel” for a particular firearm:
1. Practice the 4 Rules of Firearm Safety and make sure the gun is empty.
2. [After confirming the gun is empty] manipulate the slide, safety, magazine release, and dry-fire.
3. Perform a dry or empty magazine change — make sure you can hit the release and also reload a new magazine easily.
4. Perform a draw, or if you’re at a range where that is not allowed, simply pick the pistol up off the table and bring it up to your eye level and align the sights. Do this a few times. Can you acquire the sights quickly?
5. How does the backstrap fit your hand? Can you get both hands on the gun with enough “purchase” that you can really grip it well?
This Winchester Blog article is by Becky Yackley. Becky has competed in 3-Gun, Bianchi pistol, Service Rifle, NCAA air rifle, smallbore and air pistol events around the world since 1989.
The compact CANiK METE MC9 PRIME pistol has been named the 2025 ICA (Industry Choice Awards) Concealed Carry Handgun of the Year. This compact single-stack 9mm pistol features a ported barrel and an optics-ready slide. Average retail price is $599.99.
Testers have stated the METE MC9 Prime has good ergonomics, a good trigger, and the ported barrel reduces muzzle rise compared to popular carry pistols such as the Glock 19 and Ruger American. The controls are nice and the pistol ships with 3 backstraps, so the grip can be adapted to owner hand size.
The METE MC9 Prime is equipped with an integrally-compensated slide and ported barrel, flat-faced trigger with 90-degree break, slide lightening cuts, and flared slide for smoother manipulation. The frame boasts full grip stippling for a better feel and control. The slide is optics-ready with co-witness capability. This made-in-USA CANik firearm ships in a premium hard case and includes two 17-round magazines, a G-Code IWB/OWB ambidextrous holster, 3 sizes of backstraps, tool/cleaning kits, and magazine speed loader.
Jeff Rose, CANiK Director of Marketing stated: “This isn’t just another micro-compact. The MC9 Prime delivers unmatched capacity, uncompromising control, and a trigger that redefines what you expect from a concealed carry firearm.” The METE MC9 Prime is the first pistol made in CANiK’s new facility in West Palm Beach, Florida.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. BRUNO Shooters Supply — 50th Anniversary Blow-Out Sale
⏺️ » Major 20-40% savings on vast selection of products
Bruno Shooter’s Supply is celebrating its 50th Anniversary with a Major Blow-Out SALE. Bruno’s is offering HUGE discounts on a vast selection of products. Powders and primers are discounted, and there are big savings on rimfire and centerfire ammo. In addition, Lapua brass and Alpha brass are discounted as well as a huge variety of bullets from major manufacturers. Plus there are discounts on dies and other reloading tools. Guys, definitely check out this Bruno’s sale — you’ll find exceptional savings this week.
2. CDNN Sports — Gun Sale with FREE Shipping 8/11/2025
⏺️ » Significant savings plus FREE firearms shipping on 8/11/25
Here’s a cool deal that can save you $30-$70 — but you better act fast. Right now, through 5:00 pm on Monday August 11, 2025, CDNN Sports is offering FREE Shipping on firearms. This promotion is “icing on the cake” with CDNN’s already great pricing on guns. For example the cool Walther .22 LR pistol is discounted a whopping $459 (from $699.00 to $239.99), while the Ruger American Ranch rifle with optic is discounted $149 (from $729.00 to $579.99).
3. Creedmoor Sports — Berger Bullet Sale, Save up to 20%
⏺️ Good discounts on very large selection of Berger bullets
Now’s the time to get components, with the competition season getting underway. And right now Creedmoor Sports is running a major Berger Bullet Sale with quality Berger bullets from .17 to .30 calibers in a wide variety of hunting and match types. Choose target hybrids, varmint bullets, Elite Hunters or other bullet types for your next match or hunt. Many of the most popular .22-Cal, 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, and .30-Cal match bullets are on sale.
4. SIG Sauer — SIG Sauer 2.5-8X Scope and Rangefinder, $299.99
⏺️ » Amazing deal on BDX Bluetooth-connected scope and laser rangefinder
Here’s a good SIG Sauer Combo Kit at a great price. For just $299.99 you can get a 2.5-8x32mm scope PLUS a laser rangefinder. The SIERRA3BDX scope boasts a BDX system that “talks” to the KILO2800BDX rangefinder to determine target distance. Then the scope automatically shows your hold-over point — no need to dial turrets. This system uses Bluetooth to share readings from the BDX-enabled rangefinder with the BDX-enabled optic. The BDX system enables hunters to hit their target prey rapidly and precisely.
5. MidwayUSA — Walkers Electronic Plugs and Muffs 40-53% Off
⏺️ » Good electronic hearing protection with 23dB+ Ratings
All shooters need high quality hearing protection. Modern electronic muffs and plugs offer over 23 decibles of sound reduction, with the advantage that users can still hear range commands and communicate with fellow shooters. Right now MidwayUSA is offering 40% Off Razor Slim Muffs with Walkie-Talkie system and 53% off Walker’s Restrictor Earplugs with an impressive 23dB NRR. These electronic plugs have Bluetooth so you can listen to messages from your cellphone or other devices.
6. Palmetto State Armory — AR15 Lower Receiver, $49.99
⏺️ » Amazing Deal on quality AR lower receiver
With the election just a month away, and Biden/Harris slamming through anti-gun executive orders, you want to get that AR15 build started while you still can. If you need an AR lower, here’s a great deal. Palmetto State Armory (PSA) now has stripped AR15 lowers for just $49.99. With this lower as the core, you can build up your AR for any discipline you choose: 3-Gun rifle, service rifle competition, varmint rifle, or even “race gun” for the PRS Gas Gun Series. These PSA lowers are forged using 7075-T6 Aluminum and have a durable, mil-spec anodized hardcoat finish.
7. Palmetto SA — Bulk .22 LR Ammo, 6 to 8 cents per round
⏺️ » Great deals on American-made rimfire ammo — Federal, Rem, Winchester
For fun close-range shooting, it’s hard to beat the .22 LR rimfire cartridge. It is inexpensive, has low recoil, and barrels last many thousands of rounds. Right now you can get good, reliable, American-made .22 LR ammo at big savings. Bulk ammo packs of 250 to 1400 rounds are on sale for just 6 to 8 cents per round at Palmetto State Armory. Show above are three bargain packs, but there are many other great deals.
⏺️ » Excellent, rugged rifle case at a very good price
When flying or driving it’s vital to protect your rifles. A good hard case option (at a great price) is the APACHE 9800 Weatherproof Protective Rifle Case. On sale for $149.99, this 53″-long case is $190.00 less than an equivalent-size Pelican case. Constructed from durable polypropylene, this quality hard case can protect long guns from from impact, moisture, and dust. The built-in purge valve equalizes pressure so you can open the case after changing elevations. NOTE: Case interior dimensions are 50⅜” by 13⅝”.
9. Amazon — Tactical Shooting Mat & Rest Bags, $22.99
⏺️ » Handy shooting mat with two bags — all for under $23
Shooting prone requires a good shooting mat. And it helps to have front and rear bags. One budget-priced option is this DGVR Tactical Shooting Mat (#ad) set that comes with both front and rear bags. Get the mat and both bags for just $22.99 on Amazon (#ad). The 1000D Nylon shooting mat is waterproof with a non-slip coating and handy carry strap. NOTE: The two nylon bags ship empty — you add filling.
As an Amazon affiliate, this site can earn revenues through sales commissions.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Cabela’s — Springfield Model 2020 .22 LR Rifle, $299.99
⏺️ » Great price on a versatile bolt-action rimfire rifle
Want an inexpensive rimfire rifle for plinking, steel matches, or NRL22 competition? Consider the Springfield Model 2020 .22LR Target rifle, now just $299.99 at Cabela’s. This rifle sells for up to $499.99 elsewhere, so you can save $200 with this deal. This rifle has a sage color stock with black webbing. This model features a 20″, heavy profile, straight taper barrel with a 1/2″ x 28 threaded muzzle. It is chambered in .22 LR and comes with a 10-round rotary magazine. The rifle is designed for accuracy, with a free-floated barrel and a Rem 700-style adjustable trigger.
2. EuroOptic — Bushnell Optics Closeout Sale
⏺️ » HUGE discounts on Bushnell scopes, rangefinders, binoculars
If you’re building a new rifle or planning a hunt, check out EuroOptic’s current Bushnell Closeout Sale. From red dots to scopes to rangefinders there’s something for everyone. Most sale items are discounted at least 25% with some discounted over 50%. Along with individual scopes, there are some binoculars/rangefinder combo kits now 46% off — a good option for hunters.
3. Graf & Sons — Rimfire Ammo Sale
⏺️ » Very good .22 LR, 22 WMR, 17 Mach2, and 17 HMR ammo prices
With low cost ammo and low recoil, shooting rimfire rifles is fun and popular. Modern rimfire ammo can also be very effective on varmints. Right now Graf’s is running a big Rimfire Ammo Sale. You’ll find the full selection of rimfire ammo types, both .17 and .22 calibers, on sale. Discounted brands include Aguila, Armscor, Browning, Cascade, CCI, and Federal — with deals from 50rd boxes to 1000rd packs.
4. Midsouth — RCBS Reloading Combo Kit Sale
⏺️ » Save over $100 on popular RCBS press/gear combo kits
If you are getting started in reloading, consider the RCBS Explorer Reloading Kit 2 now $120 off the regular price at Midsouth. If you prefer a bigger press and want a manual scale, check out the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit now $60.00 off. Both kits include nearly all the essential equipment you need except dies and shell holders. Both systems represent very good values.
5. Natchez — CCI, Federal, Remington Primer Sale, Save 20-40%
⏺️ » Good opportunity — major discounts on rifle and pistol primers
Natchez is running a major primer sale with big discounts. You can save $25 to $60 per 1000 on CCI, Federal, and Remington, and Federal pistol and rifle primers. With this summer Primer Sale expect to save 20-40% on rifle, pistol, and shotgun primers. And yes, popular CCI BR2 and CCI 450 primers are in stock.
6. Palmetto SA — CANIK TP9 Elite 9mm Pistol, $324.99
⏺️ » Great deal on handy 9mm carry pistol with holster and REBATE
Here’s a good compact carry pistol at a great price. This CANIK TP9 Elite subcompact 9mm pistol boasts good ergonomics, a good trigger, an optics-ready slide, and a 12+1 magazine. Owner reviews have been very positive. The TP9 Elite ships with two interchangeable back straps for better hand fit plus a factory Kydex-style holster. With a tungsten cerakote slide finish this pistol is built to last. NOTE: Now through September 30, 2025, this pistol also qualifies for a CANIK Manufacturer’s Rebate, making this an even better deal.
7. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Powder Funnel Kit, $29.99
⏺️ » Good kit with 8 nozzles that fit brass necks precisely
This is a very worthwhile reloading tool. The Frankford Arsenal Aluminum Powder Funnel Kit (#ad) includes 8 interchangeable nozzles, eliminating the need for caliber-specific funnels. Each nozzle fits over the neck of your brass, providing a smooth surface for powder to flow while avoiding spills. Overall, this funnel kit allows you to dispense powder into your brass with greater efficiency and uniformity.
8. Amazon — MTM Large 100rd Ammo Box with Carry Handle
⏺️ » Secure, lockable 100rd ammo carrier with handle
Do you wish you could keep all 100 rounds of brass together in one box? We recommend the MTM R-100 series ammo case (#ad). Chose the version for standard size ammo or a model for magnum size cases. This is offered in rugged polypropylene in semi-translucent blue, or medium green. These stackable cases boast a large, strong handle plus a flange for locking. This is a great choice for shooting matches with multiple relays, or extended varmint adventures.
9. Amazon — Cordless Blower and Vacuum, $33.24
⏺️ » Handy, compact dual-function tool for reloading room
Made of aluminum alloy, the iDOO Cordless Duster & Vacuum (#ad) is a handy tool for your reloading room. This dual-function device works BOTH as a vacuum machine and as a fan, blowing away dust. With its powerful brushless motor, the iDOO compressed air duster can blow away dust and or use it as a vacuum to clean particles and case trimmer metal shavings.
10. Amazon — Portable Charger w/ Built-in Cables
⏺️ » Very handy battery pack with multiple cable types
With modern battery-powered shooting accessories needing power at the range, it’s wise to have a good charging source. We like this 20000mAh Fast Charging 22.5W Power Bank (#ad). This portable charger boasts 5 outputs and comes with multiple charging cables for various port types. This unit can charge up to 5 devices simultaneously ensuring your chronographs and other electronic gear are always ready to go.
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Do you enjoy shooting pistols for sport, or perhaps you carry a handgun for self-defense? If you’re like most of us, you might benefit from a “refresher course” on the fundamentals of handgun shooting. The NRA has created a useful Infographic that covers important basics of handgun marksmanship — key things such as Sight Alignment, Trigger Control, and Handgun Hold.
Here are the first two (2) lessons. Click the link below to see all SIX (6) training topics: Sight Alignment, Sight Focus, Trigger Control, Breath Control, Hold Control, and Follow-Through.
Video Shows Sight Alignment, Grip, Stance, Trigger Control and More
In this USAMU video, SGT Shane Coley talks about the basics of sight alignment and trigger control. But then SGT Coley talks about other important control factors such as grip, arm position, and body stance. For rapid-fire shooting, you need to have a good arm and body positioning to control recoil and get back on target quickly. This video is a valuable complement to the NRA Infographic because it demonstrates all the important pistol fundamentals during live fire, at the range.
We’ve found eight great discount/rebate programs. These specials can save you big bucks on pistols, long guns, suppressors, optics, ammunition, targets and more. Some of these rebates are worth big bucks. For example you can Save $75 on a new Browning rifle or shotgun, Save $100 on a new Colt pistol, get a $100 Credit with a SIG Sauer pistol, or get Free Meprolight Optic with the purchase of an IWI firearm. Note: Quite a few of these rebate offers expire at the end of August or early September, so check the dates — you snooze, you lose.
Find More Rebates at Gundeals.com and Sportsman’s Outdoors. Note: There are Federal, Remington, and Speer Ammo Rebate Offers that expire at 11:59 pm today, July 31, 2025.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. EuroOptic — Leupold Sale, up to 45% Off Blem Items
⏺️ » HUGE discounts on Leupold scopes, spotters, binoculars
This week, at EuroOptic, Leupold scopes with a slight blemish are on sale at huge discounts — up to 43%. These are not used — they are new optics with the full Leupold Lifetime warranty. If you need a scope for your hunting, varmint, or competition rifle, this is great savings opportunity. In addition, regular (non-blem) Spotting Scopes and Binoculars are on sale at big discounts. For example the Leupold 15-45x65mm SX-4 spotter is now $449.99, a 44% saving off the $779.99 list price.
⏺️ » Huge 43% discount on good quality 1911 handgun
An American classic, the model 1911 pistol offers excellent accuracy, and a great single-action trigger. Right now at KYGUNCO you can save 43% on a Taurus stainless model 1911 pistol that ships with two 8-round magazines. A quality stainless 1911 is a great addition to any gun collection, both for target shooting and defensive use. With this 43% discount you are saving over $312.00 compared to regular list price.
3. Powder Valley — Varget Special 8.8-lb Cannister
⏺️ » Great super-size value for popular Varget powder
Varget is one of the very best powders for many popular cartridges including .223 Rem, 6mmBR, 6XC, 6mm Creedmoor, 6GT, .243 Win, .308 Win and others. Right now you can get an 8.8-lb cannister of Varget for $409.95. That works out to just $46.59 per pound — a great value. If you load a lot of Varget, we recommend this deal from Powder Valley Outdoors. NOTE: A single 1-lb container of Varget is $55.95 at Powder Valley. So the big 8.8-lb cannister offers considerable savings.
4. Amazon — Lyman 8-station Turret Press, $265.90
⏺️ » 8-station turret press is great for loading multiple cartridge types
The 8-station Lyman Brass Smith All-American 8 Press (#ad) is an impressive product. This sturdy turret press is made from heavy-duty cast iron. The 8-die station turret will hold up to four 2-die sets. Below the turret is a rigid cast iron frame, housing a 1″-diameter ram and compound linkage. NOTE: With a $269.97 price on Amazon, the 8-station Lyman is $130 cheaper than the $399.99 7-station Redding T-7. No question, that’s a significant price advantage.
5. Amazon — Folding 4-Wheel Gear Cart, $44.99
⏺️ » Great deal on folding cart that can handle all your shooting equipment
The F-Class Nationals starts next week in Wisconsin. Along with heavy rifles, competitors must haul rests, heavy rear bags, spotting scopes, ammo, shooting mats, and other gear. Moving all that gear could require multiple trips. But with this Collapsible Foldable Beach Wagon (#ad) you can haul your gear way more efficiently. Often used at matches to haul rifles, rests, mats, windflags, spotting scopes etc., these handy carts make life easier. The large oversized wheels traverse rough terrain and roll through sand with ease. This cart is offered in black for $44.99, or with blue color (as shown) for $50.99.
6. Precision Reloading — FREE HazMat on $149+ Orders
⏺️ » FREE HazMat through 7/31/25 on $149+ orders
Here’s a good way to save $20-$35 on your next order of Powder and/or primers. Now through Wednesday, July 31, 2025 Precision Reloading is offering FREE HazMat on powder and primer orders over $149.00 total. That can save you significant fees compared to other vendors. In addition, Precision Reloading has very competitive prices on popular powder and primer types.
7. Midway USA — Walker’s Electronic EarMuffs on Sale
⏺️ Major savings on popular electronic hearing protection
8. Palmetto SA — PSA Bundle 9mm Ammo, Bag, Targets, $220.00
⏺️ » 500rds 9mm ammo plus targets, range bag, and more
Here’s a great package for pistol shooters. The $220.00 PSA Range Day Bundle includes: 500 rounds of AAC 9mm 124gr Ammo in transport case; Walker’s PSA Electronic Muffs and Glasses Combo Kit; PSA Black Range Bag; Birchwood Casey Shoot-N-C 12″x18″ Silhouette Targets, 5 Pack; and Birchwood Casey Target Stapler (with staples). That’s all you need for fun days at the range — just bring your 9mm firearm(s).
9. Amazon — 52″ Double Rifle Case, $39.99
⏺️ » Good price for versatile case that can hold long-barrel rifles
Here’s a very affordable rifle case that can hold long competition rifles. The Huntsen 52″ Double Rifle Case features a removable divider that enables the carrying of one or two rifles up to 50″ OAL. This case includes a large zipper pocket, 3 magazine pouches, plus MOLLE straps for other accessories. For the same $39.99 sale price, this 52″ case is offered in black (#ad), green (#ad), or tan digital camo (#ad) colors.
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Everyone should have a heavy-duty, thick-walled steel gunsafe for their firearms and valuables. Ideally this should weigh 400+ pounds and offer fire protection for the contents. However, a gun owner may also want more rapid access to defensive arms and security items, in a different part of the home. That is where the “hidden in plain sight” concept comes into play. Metal Art of Wisconsin has some unique wall-hanging products that provide hidden storage.
Freedom Cabinet Holds Long Arms and Pistols — RFID Access
The unique Freedom Cabinet, shown above, is a patriotic, wall-mounted Stars & Stripes Flag-themed concealment unit, offered in three sizes starting at $324.95. Available in Wood, Steel, or Carbon Fiber, each secure Freedom Cabinet features inlaid steel with optional RFID ($39.95) or Biometric ($49.95) locking systems. There is also the Decor series of Freedom Cabinets with simpler, single flip-up covers. CLICK HERE to view all the Decor Freedom Flip-Up Cabinets, ranging from $249.95 for small size (23″x12″) to $449.95 for large size (41″x22″), with 7 different graphic styles. Along with Metal Art’s flip-up Freedom cabinets in various sizes, there is a “Slider” version priced at $294.95.
In addition to the basic, budget-priced TX 22 pistol, Taurus offers an impressive Comp model set up for optics. The Taurus TX 22 Competition model is built on the same full-size polymer receiver as the basic Taurus TX 22 but has a newly engineered slide and barrel assembly designed to work with red dot optics.
The Taurus TX 22 Competition features a “skeletonized” slide with a cutout between the ejection port to just behind the front sight. The mounting system allows the use of the following (but not limited to) sight models: Trijicon RMR, C-More STS 2, Vortex Venom, Doctor Noblex, Burris Fast Fire, Sightmark Mini, Holosun HS507C, Leupold Delta Point Pro.
Talented Jessie Harrison Demonstrates TX22 Competition
In this video, Jessie Harrison, the world’s best female action pistol competitor, shoots the TX 22 on steel, starting at 0:14 time-mark. She shows how the pistol’s low recoil allows amazingly quick follow-up shots.
There is an additional model, the Taurus TX 22 SCR (Steel Competition Ready) which offers a forward compensator. This TX 22 SCR was designed for steel plate competition and action pistol games. We like the balance and ergonomics of this pistol, and the integrated forward compensator does reduce muzzle flip, allowing faster follow-up shots and better split times.
We think all shooters should have a quality .22 LR rimfire pistol — something with a good trigger, ergonomic grip, and excellent accuracy out of the box. Right now, with the Walther P22 Target Model, you can get all those things for just $239.99 at CDNN Sports. We that that’s one of the best mag-fed rimfire handgun deals you’ll currently find anywhere.
This pistol has a good trigger and ergonomic grip. Accuracy is very good and the forward ported compensator reduces muzzle flip dramatically, allowing very rapid follow-up shots — good for gun games. The K22 ships with two (2) 10-round magazines. This pistol does not have an integral plate for fitting a red dot optic, but the adjustable iron sights are quite good.
The P22 is a very nice rimfire handgun with a 5″ barrel plus a forward ported compensator. The ergonomic grip boasts an interchangeable backstrap. Walther states: “Best-in-class ergonomics, supported by interchangeable backstraps, establishes the P22 as one of the most comfortable handguns available today.” Compared to most other rimfire pistols in this class, the trigger is very good right out of the box with a light, crisp pull. We also like the ambidextrous controls. A rare feature for a rimfire, the P22 is covered by the Walther Legendary Lifetime Limited Warranty.
