I just got an email from a friend who is new to shooting handguns. He had asked my advice for his first purchase, and I of course told him to get a Glock. Only problem is I forgot he is left-handed. He looked it over at the store, but ultimately decided on the Smith and Wesson M&P because of the ambidextrous controls.
He has been very satisfied with the pistol so far because it fits him which brings us to a great point. Don’t conform yourself to any particular gun. The gun needs fit you. If you are buying from Smith, Glock or Springfield, you have nothing to worry about. The quality is great, and the guns will simply run. Don’t get caught up in the brand name. We all have reasons why we like a particular gun, and at the end of the day that gives us confidence in our system. Be confident in yours.
By the way, he is doing this right. He has taken a CCW course and is getting some training. I recommended that he shoot IDPA once in a while to gain the skills necessary to carry CCW. Don’t just buy a gun and think you’ve got it all figured out. Become proficient with it.