A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Handguns in 2025

Purchasing a handgun in 2025 involves understanding your needs, navigating legal requirements, and selecting the right model for your purpose. Whether you are a first-time buyer or looking to expand your collection, this guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for buying handguns safely and legally.

Determining Your Purpose

Before making a purchase, it is crucial to identify why you want a handgun. Common reasons include:

  • Self-defense
  • Concealed carry
  • Recreational shooting
  • Home protection
  • Competition shooting

Your intended use will influence the type, size, caliber, and features of the handgun you should consider.

Understanding Handgun Types and Features

Handguns come in various styles, each with distinct characteristics:

  • Semi-automatic pistols: Popular for their higher capacity and faster reload times.
  • Revolvers: Known for simplicity and reliability, often favored by beginners.

Key features to consider include caliber, action type, magazine capacity, and weight. For example, the Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS is a favored 9mm semi-automatic with a 15-round capacity and weighs 21.34 ounces, making it a versatile choice for many shooters.

Recommended Handguns for Beginners

  • Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS
  • CZ 75
  • Sig Sauer P322 (.22 LR trainer)
  • Walther PDP
  • Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0
  • SIG P365 Optics Ready

Legal Considerations and Buying Process

Buying a handgun in 2025 is regulated by federal and state laws. Here is a step-by-step overview:

  1. Research Laws: Check federal and your state’s specific regulations, including waiting periods, safety certificates, and registration requirements.
  2. Choose a Licensed Dealer: Purchase only through a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL).
  3. Background Check: Undergo a background check via the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
  4. Complete Additional Requirements: Depending on your state, you may need to complete safety training, fingerprinting, or waiting periods.
  5. Take Possession: After fulfilling all requirements, you can take delivery of your handgun. Some states require registration.

"Regulations can change frequently. Always double-check your state’s most up-to-date laws before making a purchase."

Cost Considerations

Handgun prices vary widely based on brand, model, and features:

  • Entry-level handguns: $300–$500
  • Mid-range models: $500–$800
  • High-end tactical or competition handguns: $1,500 and above

Budgeting for accessories such as holsters, cleaning kits, and ammunition is also important.

Safety and Responsible Ownership

Owning a handgun comes with the responsibility to practice safe handling and storage:

  • Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
  • Keep the handgun unloaded until ready to use.
  • Store firearms securely, using safes or lockboxes.
  • Attend safety training courses regularly.

Additional Resources

For detailed information on firearm values and models, the 2025 Standard Catalog of Firearms is an excellent resource, featuring over 7,800 photos and pricing for thousands of firearms.

Various handguns on display

function checkEligibility(age, backgroundCheckPassed) {
  if (age >= 21 && backgroundCheckPassed) {
    return 'Eligible to purchase handgun';
  } else {
    return 'Not eligible to purchase handgun';
  }
}

By understanding your needs, complying with legal requirements, and prioritizing safety, you can confidently select and purchase the right handgun for your situation in 2025.