Best First Handguns I'd Buy…If I Started In 2026

If I were buying my first handgun in 2026, would I still choose a Glock 19—or start with something different? In this video, we compare 10 handguns through the challenges new shooters face: recoil, hand fit, budget, and the true cost of ownership. From the Taurus TX22 and Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield EZ to the Glock 19, Ruger RXM, and CZ P-07, we explore each model’s strengths, compromises, and place on the list. We also discuss why smaller doesn’t always mean easier to shoot, why warranty details matter, and why training and secure storage belong in your budget. What was your first handgun, and who helped you choose it? Share your story in the comments. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Starting Over: My First Handgun in 2026 00:56 – Taurus TX22: Recoil and Learning the Basics 02:02 – Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield EZ: Hand Strength and Ease of Use 02:55 – Walther PDP F-Series: Fit for Smaller Hands 03:41 – Ruger Security-380: Recoil and Comfort 04:33 – Taurus G3: Budget and Total Ownership Costs 05:25 – Canik TP9SF: Trigger Feel and Trade-Offs 06:14 – Glock 19: Would I Choose It Again? 07:06 – Ruger RXM: Another Option to Compare 07:38 – CZ P-07: Understanding the DA/SA Trade-Off 08:29 – Taurus GX4: The Compromises of a Smaller Handgun 09:17 – Final Thoughts: Fit Matters More Than a Name 09:43 – Three Questions Before You Buy