In search of the right pistol, sports shooters and hunters encounter various types and models - whether among new or used firearms. There are a variety of different pistols manufactured for various purposes.
Therefore, it is advisable to pay attention to the purpose for which one wants to acquire a pistol when purchasing one - similar to any other hunting or sporting weapon. While pistols are usually used by sports shooters for competitive shooting or training, hunters can use a pistol for protection against dangerous game at close range and also for the finishing shot. For the latter, the pistol can be used both during tracking and in trap hunting. Different characteristics such as the design or type of the pistol and the caliber play a significant role.
Especially regarding the various mentioned uses, the caliber used varies greatly.
Just like with long guns, one can spend a lot of time in one of the infamous "caliber discussions" in most forums regarding handguns, especially pistols. While these discussions are not always uninteresting, they are often exhausting because one ultimately realizes that taste is subjective.
There are many different calibers. However, these calibers can often be grouped into certain categories. These groups usually represent calibers of a certain size and, consequently, a specific purpose for which they are suitable.
One of the classic calibers that is very popular among sports shooters for training and competition and among hunters for finishing shots on sick game as well as for personal safety against dangerous game at close range is known by the following different names: 9x19/ 9 mm Para / 9 mm Luger. This caliber is also frequently found in the tactical and military sectors. It is one of the most well-known large "universal calibers" for pistols.
One should not confuse the caliber 9mm Luger/Para with the caliber "9 mm short", also known as .380 ACP. This caliber is somewhat weaker, similar to the caliber 7.65 mm Browning, but is still popular in the tactical field and among sports shooters.
For those who want a lot of power, the 10 mm Auto caliber is the way to go. Cartridges of this caliber are very powerful and combine good ballistics with high stopping power. Ideal for taking down sick wild boar or defending oneself against a strong boar at close range.
The exact opposite can be found in the caliber .22 lr/ .22 lfb. This caliber is characterized by very small projectiles and is mainly used in the field of sports shooting (for example, in biathlon or "free pistol"). In hunting, this caliber is only suitable for small game, often also in trap hunting.
In summary:
The pistol calibers 9mm Luger, 10 mm Auto, .22 lr, 7.65 mm Browning, and .380 ACP differ in their performance and ballistics. The 9mm Luger is a widely used caliber that offers a good balance between performance and precision. The 10 mm Auto is a more powerful caliber with higher recoil and is suitable for targets that require greater penetration. The .22 lr is a small and weak caliber used for sports and training. The 7.65 mm Browning is a small caliber with limited performance, suitable for self-defense but not for hunting. The .380 ACP is also a self-defense caliber and offers higher performance than the 7.65 mm Browning but less than the 9mm Luger.
Those searching online, for example on Gunfinder.de, for used pistols quickly see that there are thousands of different offers for used pistols. The prices also vary greatly. This is mainly due to the different models and the varying conditions of the firearms.
One of the most commonly traded used pistols is the Walther PPK. If one is not too bothered by a few signs of use, an old Walther PPK can be acquired for around €150.
On the other hand, enthusiasts of a new Desert Eagle usually have to be prepared to invest a four-digit sum to purchase one.
How far one can shoot with a pistol depends on various conditions. In particular, the ammunition used, the angle of fire, and the environment are relevant for the maximum shooting distance.
If you want to cover as much distance as possible with a pistol, you should ensure that you choose a fast pistol caliber, that the environment is as windless as possible, and that you fire the bullet at an angle of 35°.
While in shooting sports, shooting at longer distances with a pistol is common, the use of pistols in any context is usually limited to a distance of up to 20m.
Many old-school hunters would answer this question with a clear "no". After all, even the forefathers accomplished great hunting feats with just a rifle and a blade.
However, there are indeed good reasons today for hunters to acquire a pistol as well. On one hand, some hunters like to carry a handgun to defend themselves against dangerous game (boars, wolves, etc.) at close range in case of an emergency; on the other hand, the pistol is useful in trap hunting for the finishing shot.
According to the legal regulations in Germany, the pistol may also only be used on small game (e.g., rabbits, vermin) at close range. Especially in trap hunting, the use of a pistol makes sense. Unlike a shotgun or rifle, there is little risk of damaging the trap or catch basket, and the catch can still be dispatched humanely.
Therefore, there are indeed good reasons for a hunter to own at least a handgun/pistol and carry it in the hunting area.
Whether a hunter carries a pistol or a revolver in the hunting area is ultimately just a matter of taste. Both types of handguns are available in various calibers for various purposes.
Only regarding the different loading sizes are there significant differences in usability. While revolvers can hold between 5 and 10 cartridges in the cylinder magazine, modern pistols with special magazines can hold up to 30 cartridges in the magazine.
There are also slight differences regarding disassembly and cleaning effort. The pistol can be disassembled more easily than the revolver; however, the latter is somewhat easier to clean since there are not as many different parts that can get dirty.
Here you can find more information on the topic "Pistol or revolver".
There are many renowned manufacturers of pistols. Below, we would like to briefly introduce you to some of the most well-known and largest:
Anyone who thinks that there is THE standard pistol for police and security authorities in Germany is mistaken. In the various federal states and among the different units, various pistol models are in use. Most models come from the manufacturer Walther and are based on the almost legendary Walther PPK.
In many federal states, the state police use the models P229, P30, and P99 Q.
But models from other manufacturers are also in use by police and security authorities. In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Lower Saxony, for example, police officers carry an SFP9 from the German manufacturer Heckler&Koch.
And in Saxony-Anhalt, the Glock 46 is a unique feature.
In Germany, only those who possess a firearms acquisition license are generally allowed to acquire firearms. Such a license is usually held only by sports shooters, hunters, or employees of specific security authorities and companies.
As a hunter with a valid hunting license, you are entitled to acquire and possess up to two handguns without stating special reasons after a preliminary entry from the relevant authority. There are also hunters who own more than two handguns. They have received the corresponding approval from the responsible firearms authority for each additional handgun by stating a special need. Such a reason could be, for example, the need for different calibers due to intensive trap hunting.
Hunters and also sports shooters who want to acquire a handgun with such a preliminary entry must possess the Green Firearms Ownership Card.
A so-called firearms permit, which also allows one to acquire, possess, and carry firearms, does exist, but it is only granted to certain individuals under very specific circumstances.
The average citizen only has the option to carry non-restricted firearms outside their own home, business premises, or enclosed property with the help of the Small Firearms Permit. However, there are also strict regulations regarding where these non-restricted firearms can and cannot be carried.
The Sig Sauer P226 is a semi-automatic pistol manufactured by the American company Sig Sauer. It was first introduced in the 1980s and has since gained a loyal following.
The P226 is available in various calibers, including 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG. It features a magazine with a capacity of 15 rounds and has an overall length of 196mm. The pistol is known for its accuracy and reliability and has established itself as a dependable weapon for law enforcement agencies and military units worldwide.
The P226 features a full grip that allows the user to ensure comfortable and controlled handling. The pistol also has a range of safety features, including a decocking lever and an automatic hammer safety, which ensure that the weapon can only be fired when in the correct position.
The P226 also has a range of options and accessories that allow the user to customize it to their specific needs. These include various sights, lasers, lights, and suppressors, as well as a variety of modifications to the trigger group.
Overall, the Sig Sauer P226 is a reliable and precise pistol suitable for a variety of applications. It has gained a loyal following among law enforcement agencies, military units, and sports shooters worldwide and is one of the most well-known pistols on the market.
The Colt 1911 is a semi-automatic pistol that has been on the market for over a century. It was first developed in 1911 by Colt's Manufacturing Company and has since established itself as one of the most well-known pistols worldwide.
The Colt 1911 is available in various calibers, including .45 ACP, 9mm Luger, and .38 Super. It features a magazine with a capacity of 7 to 10 rounds, depending on the caliber. The pistol has an overall length of 218mm and weighs about 1.1 kg.
The Colt 1911 is known for its reliability and durability. It has a robust construction and a variety of safety features that ensure that the weapon can only be fired when in the correct position. The pistol also has a unique trigger that allows for precise and controlled handling.
The Colt 1911 also has a range of options and accessories that allow the user to customize it to their specific needs. These include various sights, lasers, lights, and suppressors, as well as a variety of modifications to the trigger group.
Overall, the Colt 1911 is a reliable and precise pistol that has had a loyal following among shooters and military units worldwide for over 100 years. It has established itself as one of the most well-known pistols on the market and remains a popular choice for sports shooters and collectors today.
Proper handling of a pistol is crucial to ensure the safety of the shooter and others in their vicinity. Safe and efficient handling of a pistol requires both knowledge and practice. Here are some basic information and tips for safe handling of pistols.
Basic safety rules:
Basics of pistol handling:
Grip: A proper grip allows for better control of the pistol and helps minimize recoil. The high grip, where the shooting hand is as high as possible on the back of the grip, is generally preferred.
Loading and unloading: Learn to load and unload your pistol correctly. This should be done in a safe environment and with the proper procedure.
Aiming: Use your pistol's sights correctly. Most pistols use a system of a front and rear sight.
Trigger control: A smooth and controlled trigger pull is crucial for accuracy. Avoid jerking or snapping the trigger.
Positions: There are various shooting positions such as standing, kneeling, or lying down. Practice each position to familiarize yourself with the techniques and advantages.
Further safety practices:
Storage: Pistols should be stored securely and out of reach of unauthorized persons, especially children.
Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance of your pistol ensure its functionality and safety.
Training: Consider acquiring expertise as an ongoing process. There are many training courses and resources that provide valuable information and training in handling pistols.
