Pistols
Selecting a pistol is very personal choice and the right pistol will vary based on the individual. There are some criteria that go into selecting the right Pistol.
Brand
Stick with a major and reputable brand
Niche brands will be harder to source magazine, parts, holster, etc. so keep that in mind when picking a niche or lesser known brand
Examples: Sig Sauer, Glock, Smith&Wesson, Ruger ,Walther, H&K, Springfield, Beretta, etc.
Fit
The pistol should fit you not you fit yourself to the pistol
Proper fit means the pistol is comfortable to grip and all controls are able to be accessed
Magazine Cost
Magazines can get expensive depending on the pistol so keep that in mind
Aftermarket Support
Parts, holsters, etc.- Lesser known brands and models will be harder to get parts, magazines, holsters, etc.
Price
Pistols can range a couple hundred to a couple thousand dollars. Find what works for your budget
Caliber
Stick with a caliber with widespread civilian, military, law enforcement use
Niche calibers will be harder to get ammunition for
Caliber can make a great impact on ammunition cost so research ammunition costs as well
Optics Ready/Rail Compatibility- If you want to add a red dot or any accessory make sure that the pistol is optics ready and has an accessory rail
Holsters
Holster Requirements
Must cover the trigger and trigger guard and render trigger inaccessible while in holster
Retain shape
Holster must retain shape when the firearm is not in the holster
If holster collapses then reholstering will require both hands
Holster material will determine whether it retains shape
Kydex is the primary holster material for modern holsters
High quality durable clips
A good holster keeps the pistol in a consistent position for each draw and allows for safe carry by protecting the trigger from being inadvertently pressed
Recommended Companies: Tier 1 Concealed, QVO Tactical, T-Rex Arms, Vedder Holsters, PHLster, there are many other great holster companies out there
Magazine Carriers/Pouches
Magazine carriers allow you to store and carry magazines on your person.
Requirements:
Orients the magazine in a consistent position to allow for smooth and efficient reloading
Retains the magazine during movement and activity
Has clips or other attachment method to attach to your belt or pants
Recommendations: Vedder Holsters, Tier 1 Concealed, NeoMag
Gun Belts
Gun Belts are sturdy and more durable than other belts. Carrying a pistol requires a belt capable of handling the extra weight. I prefer belts with a ratcheting mechanism because they allow for greater flexibility and adjustment
Recommendations: Nexbelt, Kore Essentials
Ammunition
Buying quality ammunition is important because subpar ammunition can lead to cycling issues in your pistol and potentially injuries and damage to your pistol.
Requirements:
Buy factory new ammunition
Buy from a reputable manufacturer
Buy from a manufacturer in a NATO country as they have higher quality control
Don’t buy reloaded ammunition
Research if certain ammunition has feeding issues with your pistol
Make sure the ammunition is legal to purchase and possess in your jurisdiction