starter pistols - primer vs .22 blanks

[rhomerj]

Hi, just looking into buying my first starter pistol for training.
I am just curious about pros/cons between the 2 kinds of pistols.
Thanks for any input.

[Kevin Hannah]

209 Primers are cheap, about $40 per 1000

[Anna Scott]

I would recommend the Alfa pistol with 209's. The cheaper pistols just don't stand up. We put alot of primers through our guns in a season and the Olympias fall apart (cylander) gets loose. The ones that Bass Pro sell the transfer bar breaks on them especially if used in cold weather. Have been happy with the Alfa so far.

[Labber]

Get the Alpha 22 if deafness isn't a problem too you.
Go with the alfa primer pistol IMO.

[rhomerj]

thanks for the help!

[Misty Marsh]

209 primers are cheaper, and not quite as loud as a .22 firing green or yellow loads, so if your running longer 200+ yard marks go with the .22 and make sure to wear hearing protection, if your a HT kind of trainer go with the 209's and safe some cash on loads and your hearing. I'd go with an Alfa if you have the $$ or a Champion 209 primer pistol if you want a more entry level pistol that will hold up well as long as you take care of it.

[bopper]

Use 209 primers; far more economical. The slight difference in volume will not make any difference to your dogs. Always be sure your gunners and throwers use ear protection, I have first-hand knowledge of two gunners who suffered permanent ear damage using starter pistols without the benefit of having ear protection.

[rhomerj]

thanks for all the great input everyone!

[nimkii]

I have the 209 from Bass pro. I thought that was loud, no issues with it either. But I probably don't use it as much as others.

I trained with Tealfin (thanks by the way) on Saturday and his Alfa with the 22's rung my bell. Man that thing is loud.