In flashchat last Saturday, DE was talking about buying a handgun before the Obama administration is in place. I think the idea was for those of you who have experience to give advice to those of us who are considering becoming handgun owners.

Things I'm interested in personally are:

revolver v/s auto loader

Caliber preferences

Manufacturer preferences

Upkeep

Ease and cost of repair


I've been thinking for a while about getting a .357 for several reasons. One is that I don't plan on owning more than one handgun and this seems to be a good all-around caliber. A second is that it can safely shoot .38 special ammo which is cheaper and has less recoil. I also figure there is less to go wrong with a revolver than an auto loader.

Anyway, that's what I've been thinking. What do y'all think?