Handgun for Class/Qualification

[Bitterclinger]

I'm trying to make up my mind which handgun to use for the CHL process. Can someone explain the specifics of qualification?

If I could have my way, I'd use my Ruger MK II because I can draw smilies at fifty yards with it, but of course you have to be .32 or up.

My second choice would probably be my SP101 357 with Crimson Trace laser grips because, A) I'm almost as accurate as with the MK II, and B) this is probably what I'll actually end up carrying most of the time. I just seem to have an affinity for it. I like it so much that I got a second one.

Third choice is a Kel Tec PF-9 that I picked up at a gun show. Not super accurate, but I like the feel of it ok, and after putting a few thousand rounds through it at the range, I should do OK.

Fourth Choice is my wife's Vektor SP1 (9mm), It's very accurate and easy to shoot, but there was a (i think bogus) recall on it, and some people are afraid of it.

Fifth, Kel Tec PLR-16: I'm confident that I could qualify with it, but nobody ELSE would be having any fun. It's VERY VERY loud. Plus, I'm not sure many people accept anything .223 as a pistol, and that's not to mention that it would be challenging to CC.

Sixth, H&K USP .45. I rented one at a range and couldn't seem to miss with it. Unfortunately, I don't have one yet. :)

I DO actually have a .32, but it's only good out to three yards, so that's a no go. I have a 45 Cal Derringer, but that's even worse, and I'm just assuming the black powder Navy six replica would be out of the question; but hey, that would be sure to put a smile on the instructor kid's face eh?

[Thomas]

For my CHL class, I used a handgun that I've never shot before. I ended up passing. It doesn't sound like you'll have any problem passing either. Unless you have some kind of competition with your friends on who can get the highest score, I wouldn't worry about it.

[urnoodle]

I would suggest a semi-auto instead of a revolver. If you qualify with a revolver thats the only type you can carry. If you qualify with a semi-auto you can carry a revolver or semi-auto. Just a suggestion.

[Gameover]

Dont use the 357 if you are planning on carrying anything other then a revolver. You must qualify with a semi auto in order to carry one. I used my 92fs and got a 247(im no marks man) so whatever you choose I'm sure you'll do fine.

[urnoodle]

I should also say the proficiency test is very easy. Not a single person failed in my class of 15. There were a few that had never fired a gun before the class.

[Keith B]

As already stated you should use a semi-auto or you will be restricted to a revolver. You also would not be able to use the laser grips on the SP101 during the qualification. And a derringer cannot be used as you must be able to fire at least 5 shots within a specified time limit.
I would suggest you either buy a good semi-auto pistol and practice with it several times before going to class orcon actt the instructor for wherever you are going to take the class and see if they rent guns for the test and then find a range that rents them and go practice with that specific gun before the class.

[Teamless]

as above, do not use a revolver, but use any other .32 or larger caliber you are comfortable with.
Passing the course of fire is easy, if you simply know how to load the weapon, and have a general idea of how to aim your gun.

Just be safe, of course!


eta: Additionally, if you do not have a good Semi-Auto to shoot, your instructor probably will, or ask around the forum, never know!

[zero4o3]

For my CHL class, I used a handgun that I've never shot before. I ended up passing. It doesn't sound like you'll have any problem passing either. Unless you have some kind of competition with your friends on who can get the highest score, I wouldn't worry about it.

I passed and when I took the class it was only my second time shooting. the majority of the shots are at the cant miss distance

[apostate]

I believe the best choice is to use one of the 9mm pistols you already own.

[carlson1]

If I was you I would use the Semi-Auto. When my wife first took her CHL back in 1996 or 97 she used a S&W J Frame Revolver. She was limited which did not create a lot of hassle, but did limit her. When she renewed her CHL she used a Glock 19 and "passed." She still carried the J Frame until later switching to a Glock 26.

You are just needing to pass for CHL you are not in an IDPA match. Use the SA and then carry what you like. Be very efficient with what you are carrying, but for now just pass the class. You never know when you might change your mind and you would not want to be limited in just one area.

[rentz]

i wouldnt worry too much, just use a semi auto. I think anyone who can see straight and hold a handgun could pass the shooting portion easy

[Happily Ever After]

Fifth, Kel Tec PLR-16: I'm confident that I could qualify with it, but nobody ELSE would be having any fun. It's VERY VERY loud. Plus, I'm not sure many people accept anything .223 as a pistol, and that's not to mention that it would be challenging to CC.

There's a .32 caliber minimum for the test but you can carry that under a coat after you get your CHL.

[cbunt1]

For my money: any semi-auto. Just to eliminate the "NSA" restriction on your CHL.

And don't forget that there's no restriction whatsoever on the gun you shoot other than (A) .32 cal or larger, and (B) conventional sights . . . What I'm saying is, don't worry for a second if it's a "concealed carry" gun...

I often suggest my duty-sized Glock or Springfield XD for my students who prefer to use one of mine...

[punkndisorderly]

Like others have said, .32 cal minimum, iron sights only. That's only for the test.

I have seen an instructor or two that allowed lasers, even though he way I read the code it's a no no.

Use a revolver and you get an endorsement that only allows you to carry a revolver. Use an auto and you can carry anything.

The two things that seems to screw people up the most:

Shooting a brand new gun, usually without cleaning it. Some work fine out of the box. Some require a break in of 100+ rounds before they work reliably. Some require one or more trips back to the factory before they run right. Figuring this out the day of class slows things down for the instructor, creates unneeded stress, and can cause someone to fail.

Shooting an unfamiliar gun with unfamiliar ammo. Class day is not the time to learn your gun hates (fill in ammo type here) or has mechanical issues, or the sights are off, etc.

One common thing I see is people showing up with their shiney new pocket. 380 and learning the hard way that having the web of your hand up by the side causes malfunctions at a minimum and a nasty gàsh at worst.