Lookin' for a handgun, any advice?

[Mark C]

I've decided to pick up my first handgun before it gets any harder (legally). I want something that'll work for home defense, but won't cost an arm and a leg to shoot regularly. The local gunshop recommended a S&W 9mm for $400, though I didn't get the exact model number. I'd be happier if the price were closer to $300, but I may budge if there really is nothing of value in that range.

I know there are plenty of gun nuts here, what else should I be looking at?

[Darrell]

I'm a firm believer that I don't want the defense of myself or family in the "hands" of a "cheap" gun. I'd recommend something by Glock, S&W, Beretta. As far as models for $300, you're on your own. I'm sorry.

[icehog3]

Sig Sauer 45 is the only way to fly.

[pro2625]

Glock 21.....

If you need to stay in the lower price range try and pick up a IMI baby eagle...They are very reliable

[sailchaser]

Originally Posted by icehog3

Sig Sauer 45 is the only way to fly.

That's my first choice ,2nd S&W,3rd Glock and the fate of a 300.00 buck gun is hard to digest if if jams when you need it my

[Darrell]

Originally Posted by icehog3

Sig Sauer 45 is the only way to fly.

Sig's rock, that department issue?

[OSIRIS]

Springfield XD 45

[pearson]

S&W M&P's are awesome.

[roarknumber1]

You'll shoot your eye out kid

[croatan]

I don't personally care for S&W's autoloaders nor am I a big fan of 9mm. I also don't believe it's worth trying to save a few bucks on something on which your life might depend.

For me, the first choice in a pistol is always a 1911, with a personal preference for Kimbers (.45, of course).

If budget is really a huge issue, a revolver may be your best bet. You can get a .357 and shoot .38 specials through it for cheap practice (but be sure to practice with the real thing, too).

[anderson0196]

I would go with a revolver for home defense - not cheap, but less expensive take a look at the Taurus line. I've owned several and haven't had problems. You could do this in the $300 range. Check out gun shows when they're in the area.

Even better for home defense would be a tatical shotgun IMO....You can get a Rem 870 with an 18" barrel and a pistol grip for about $400. Much larger margin of error with this in your hands in the middle of the night.

[icehog3]

Originally Posted by Darrell

Sig's rock, that department issue?

Nope, Dept. issue is a Glock 17.

I carry the Sig all but 40 hours a week.

[Pipe&Cigar]

Guns are like Cigars, It's a very slippery slope... and everyone has their own opininon. Here is mine.

A Revolver is a great way to go, Reliable, Easy and Cheap to shoot (.357 Mag when Needed, .38 Special when Having fun). Down side: Limited ammo capacity (Usually 6 rounds) Colt, Ruger and Taurus are fine revolvers. and can be had in your price range...

Semi-Autos are my personal choice, 1911's are fun and I love them but they have their drawbacks (I wont go into right now) any firearm from Sig Sauer, Glock, Heckler & Koch and Springfield (XD) are fine choices but you will have a very hard time finding one in the $300 range. and go with the .40 S&W Caliber (minimum) rather than the 9mm! just my 2 Cents...

[xxwaldoxx]

Originally Posted by Mark C

I've decided to pick up my first handgun before it gets any harder (legally). I want something that'll work for home defense, but won't cost an arm and a leg to shoot regularly. The local gunshop recommended a S&W 9mm for $400, though I didn't get the exact model number. I'd be happier if the price were closer to $300, but I may budge if there really is nothing of value in that range.

I know there are plenty of gun nuts here, what else should I be looking at?

I was in the same situation as you about a year ago. It was right before I got married so budget friendly was a big part of my decision. I wound up picking up a used Beretta Model 70S (older than I am) for $225.00 out the door. The gun operates very well and I am comfortable with it, but if i were to do it all over again I would have went bigger than .380 auto

Since then I have picked up a Smith and Wesson M&P in 9mm and love it. I went with 9mm because I want to competitively shoot in USPSA and the smaller caliber is much more affordable when putting hundreds of rounds down range.

The model recommended to you was probably the S&W Sigma. I don't know much about them but purchasing a couple months ago would have gotten you a $50.00 rebate and 2 extra magazines. I'm told that due to this special, extra magazines are a bit harder to come by now. I can't say for sure, but definitely something to consider.

Have you figured training into your purchase price or won't you need it?

For your budget I would recommend a .357 revolver as others have recommended. It will give you plenty of stopping power with the option to move down to a .38 special for range use.

Will you be carrying this daily as that will play a big role in your decision as well?

The best thing for you to do would be to get out and handle a few to see what fits. If it isn't comfortable you won't practice with it as much as you should. Some ranges have rentals which will give you an idea if it fits as well as provide a fun hour or so at the range.

[SUOrangeGuy]

I just got mine. Springfield XD 45 compact grip