Wadesauce - I CCW and am licensed in two states - MI being one of them. I've taken a number of pistol courses over the years. For myself, I usually carry a Smith model 36 in 38 spl. and sometimes a Ruger SR9 in 9mm. But that's just me and what works for me.
In regards to your selection . . . dbc3 has offered some excellent advice. You need to find what is comfortable for you and what you are comfortable in carrying. One way is to go to a range where you can rent handguns and try out the makes/models you think you might be interested.
I don't know where you are taking your course or who is teaching it so will just pass this on to you. Your instructors should be able to help you out in many of the questions that you have. My instructors were very good and we had some in the class who had never shot, let alone handled a pistol. They allowed them to use their handguns (the instructor's) but they had to purchase the cartridges of course. The ones who never had shot did extremely well . . I put it to them not having to "un learn" bad habits picked up over time. Your instructors will help you out - don't be afraid to ask questions as that is what they are there for. If you know how to contact them, you may even want to call and talk with them prior to the class and explain what questions you have and see what they have to offer as far as advice.
Just remember that once you pass the course and you decide on what you are going to carry . . . practice and practice often. "Learn" your handgun, how it functions and how it shoots . . and then practice some more. I have shot for over 50 years and I still take courses when I can find them . . and I always pick up something very helpful . . and sometimes learn that I need to change the way I do things as well. I took the course this past summer with a 82 year old friend who had only shot his Smith .380 Bodyguard once before the class. He had no trouble passing and you will do just fine. You are not expected to be "Annie Oakley" . . you are there to learn so soak up everything that you can . . . you'll enjoy the class.
Good luck to you and you'll find which handgun is "right" for you. If you decide to carry, I hope that you will never need it . . . all of us do. But if you do decide to carry . . . it' important that you shoot and practice on a regular basis. That is not only for your protection . . but for the protection of others. It's not about "quantity" . . it's about "quality" (i.e. shot placement when and if you need it as you will be under extreme stress).
Enjoy the class and make some visits to the LGS, look at different makes, models and calibers - you'll know when you find the "right one".
__________________
If a pair of '51 Navies were good enough for Billy Hickok, then a single Navy on my right hip is good enough for me . . . besides . . . I'm probably only half as good as he was anyways. Hiram's Rangers Badge #63
|