Missing Fingers and Automatic Handguns.

[Rookie_Rover]

Hi, I have been practicing with a friends 9MM auto, just getting used to handguns, since all I have ever dealt with was long guns.

I am missing 1/2 of the trigger finger on my right hand. As I was firing the handgun I noted that early in the day it was relatively easy to keep my nub from getting into the slide. As the day wore on my hands started getting tired and at one point in a moment of great profanity the slide cut a crease in the side of whats left of my finger. I enjoyed using the gun, but I didn't particularly enjoy having it bite me like a rabid dog.

What can I do to fire handguns safely without injuring myself.

P.S.: I have had my left wrist broken when I was a kid, and if I shoot anything much bigger than a .32 my wrist feels like it is trying to tear apart. Is there any hope for me to be a handgunner?

[foto]

Try using a .22 caliber handgun. I have a few handguns of varying calibers and actions but I always go back to my .22s. Just plain fun to shoot, no recoil to deal with and AFFORDABLE. For a little more punch I throw the extra cylinder in the single six and use .22wmr. If you want to use larger calibers like .357&up etc, try a heavy revolver. I particularly like the ruger single actions as the combination of grip shape and the solid weight of the gun do a lot to tame recoil. If your set on 9mm autos try to find one that is all steel, not alloy/plastic for a little extra weight. The weight seems to make the recoil more like a push then a sharp quick jab. Welcome to hand-gunning and enjoy.

Again, don't forget the lowly .22 till you try it. Aside from at least one self defense handgun in suitable caliber, I could easily live with just .22 handguns. take care.

[PJgunner]

Not sure if this will be any help, but, most 9mm semi autos these days seem to of the double action variety. They seem to have a long reach to the trigger, even with the hammer back. So what i think is needed here is a single action semi like a colt 1911 or 1911A1. The A1's usally come with a shorter trigger and it would not be a big deal to put a short trigger on the 1911 style. Several of the companies that make 1911 style handguns also make them in 9MM, .38 Super and probably 40 S&W as well.
I have small hands myself, and find the double action semis to be a bit of a handful. You might try and find either a Beretta Brigadier or it's clone the Egyptian Helwan. They are in 9MM and are quite comfortable in my small hands. The big problem will be finding one of those. Try the gun shows.
Paul B.

[JJ]

I'm with PJ, those Double Action Only semi's can be tireing to shoot unless you have lots of hours behind them. They have a long, usually heavy trigger stroke that leads to fatigue. And once fatigued, as you painfully found out, concentration on your hold gets difficult. Single action 1911's or guns like the Para LDA's would probebly be a better choice in your case. These can be had in 9mm and recoil should not be a problem. Look into some of the shooting gloves and wrist supports on the market, they should improve your shooting and more importantly, increase your enjoyment!!

Wouldn't hurt to look into revolvers either...something in a 6" barrel .38 special or one of the Ruger single actions in a .32 H&R mag or .357 which would allow you to shoot .38 special and work up to .357 mag if you ever felt the need. Double Action revolvers and Single Action revolvers all recoil a bit different due to grip design so if you can find a place to rent guns or find some friends with both types in calibers you are interested in, I'd recommend shooting both before making a purchase.

You will not regret putting in the effort needed to come up with a gun ortwo that fits your needs......a day at the range shooting handguns is just to much fun to mis out on!

[Mickey Rat]

A guy that I went to church with was missing about the same amount of his right trigger finger. He retired as a police captain. He carried a 1911A1 for his whole career. Look at a single action pistol with a short trigger and learn to deal with it. You just need to work out a technique that works for you. I knew another guy that used his next finger down for a trigger finger, left the other stump up in the air. Again, find something that works and burn some ammo.

Note: According to FBI statistics the most deadly caliber is 22 LR. Just because so many are used. When Reagan was shot, seven rounds fired, six guys down.

I carried a 22 revolver for years. "WHEN YOU CARRY SMALL, CARRY COLD". In other words, shoot for the head. Two in the head and the Jolly Green Giant is dead.

22LR is also the assasins choice.