How would I go about getting a handgun for protection in Arizona?

thanks bud :)

no prob :)

In AZ you need to be 21 to purchase a handgun from a federally licensed dealer. At 18 you can purchase a handgun from an individual.

A few things to consider though. A shotgun is probably a better choice for self-defense in your home. A 12 gauge has awesome stopping power has a much greater chance of hitting your attacker. If a 12 gauge is more than you are comfortable with a 20 gauge is still a potent size with less recoil. Choose an 18” barrel for maneuverability in halls etc. Pump action shotguns are simple and reliable. Autoloaders tend to be expensive and finicky and in the pressure of battle the last thing you should have on your mind is if your gun fully cycled. Also, the mere sound of someone racking a pump action shotgun might scare attackers away. Buckshot is the usual load for self defense but if you live in an apartment with thin walls and only anticipate close combat birdshot is probably safer. If you worry about range you can have a few slugs loaded. Some people load a variety of loads figuring if the first round or two doesn’t do the job than they need something more powerful.

The second thing to consider. As harrowing as your home invasion ordeal was you and your GF survived the ordeal. If you were armed how can you be sure the outcome would have been better?