first sd handgun

[bcuzimisu]

looking for a good sd gun, don't have lots of cash, couldn't put a price on safety or peace of mind. I have a mossy 500 12 ga. for that housefull of undead, but want something maybe a little toned down so i don't have to bust out betsy whenever things go bump. got any suggestions? i hear used police handguns are the way to go but dont know the hookups. :confused:

[RON in PA]

If money is a problem the best buy in a used handgun is a Smith and Wesson model 10 revolver at approximately $200.

[cslinger]

Used .357 maggie revolver. SOG is selling GP100s for a steel. People will tell you a revolver is obsolete but that couldn't be further from the truth. A good solid .357 is the epitomy of a good solid HD handgun. Smith, Ruger, Colt...all will do you just fine. I know I sould like an old fart but I am actually a comparitive young'n. I just feel you can get a lot of capability for the dollar with a used .357 revolver.

Chris

[cslinger]

http://www.southernohiogun.com

Bottom of the page. $229+ say $30 shipping + $25 transfer.... you get a stellar .357 for around $285.00.

Not too shabby.

If price is no object then may I suggest the SIG P220 in .45 ACP.

Chris

[Ala Dan]

Yep, I will have too go along with a good, USED S&W revolver. Often
times, one can find excellent deals on used (but not abused) S&W
SS model 66 .357 magnum's~!

[ugaarguy]

I agree with whats already been said - get a good used S&W or Ruger revolver. Also, if you go to www.cdnninvestments.com and download their catalog PDF you can see their gun pricing. If you prefer semi-autos CDNN has used S&Ws in 9mm and 40 S&W under $300; most have night sights to boot. If you want to go even cheaper www.kyimports.com has Bulgarian Makarovs for as low as $150. The 9x18 Mak. round is about equivalent to a 380. Its not the hottest thing for self defense, but it would be a viable backup to your shotgun. KY Imports has many other good new and used pistols at really good prices. A few highlights: Kel-Tec P-11 9mm, blued, new for $230; S&W model 59 9mm, Used very good for $240. If you're lookin for home defense and not a carry gun the S&W M59 with a 14 round mag would be tough to beat at that price. Although if you prefer a revolver I'd go with the previous recommendations. A good 357 Mag wheel gun is a robust and versatile tool whose value cannot be overstated.

[Oldskoolfan]

Perhaps a Glock 17 or a Glock 19. It depends on your level of training and what you want to do with your gun. A shotgun is great for home defense. If you want to carry then a Glock 19 is an excellent choice.

These questions will help others help you:

1) Is it just for around the house?
2) Are you going to carry (CCW)?
3) Do you have a lot of experience with guns, particularly handguns?
4) Is cost a major factor? If yes, how much are you looking to spend?
5) If you plan to carry, are you comfortable with no manual safety on a gun?
6) How big are you, as in how well can you conceal some guns versus others with relative comfort and ease?
7) Will this gun be used only by you or others? A wife / girlfriend / roommate / child if the need arrises?

I always suggest a Glock 17 or 19 as they are cost effiecient, are effective with proper ammo, easy to maintain, not to costly to practice with, are concealable, and very common.

Your opinions may vary.

[Mortech]

+3 on the good used S&W revolver , something in 38 Specal unless you live in a pretty rural area without close neighbors then I would bump it up to a 357Mag . I got a my M&P/Model 10 for $125 in a local shop .

[Manedwolf]

Only thing with the .357 is that if you're a new shooter, stick to .38 specials to practice with. Starting out with the .357 is a good way to develop a flinch.

[bpisler]

A used ruger/smith/taurus 357mag
revolver is a excellent choice.
You'll have a large selection of
ammo and the gun won't cost you a
arm and a leg.