There are 2 basic types of handguns to consider: The Revolver and the SemiAuto Pistol. Both the revolver and the semi-auto pistol have their strengths and weaknesses and you must decide which one will best suit your needs and experience level.

Semi-Autos 

Pros

Cons

Fast to reload 

Chance of jamming

Higher capacity

Slide might be hard to work

Tends to be thinner

 

Tends to be lighter

 

Can be less expensive

 

 

Revolvers 

Pros

Cons

Easy to maintain

No magazines

Easy to inspect

Slower to reload

No magazines

Limited capacity

Can sometimes shoot different calibers

Tends to be wider

Lager Calibers Available 

Usually more expensive

 

Harder Trigger Pull

 

Heavier