Groomsman gifts: Handguns. now which one?

I know this has been discussed before, but in the ever changing handgun market, recency and relevancy usually go hand in hand. So enjoy the discussion.

I will be buying 4 handguns: One for each of 3 groomsman and one for myself. They will probably all match. I already have a reliable source for very high quality laser marking for free. I am on a bit of a budget (the fiancé said to spend what I want, but she doesn't mean it). I personally would like to be comfortably below $200 each after background check and transfer fees (if any). I am not opposed to used, but getting 4 of anything used in good aesthetic condition will be challenging.

I am open to nearly any caliber and style, but here are a few I have looked into (feel free to suggest more!):
.38 revolvers
.380 minis
subcompact 9mm

Here are the requirements:

Inexpensive (absolutely not more than $225)
Good looking (I know... it is subjective)
Reliable (As you would expect for the price range, not expecting H&K)


I'll start it off with one:

Kel-Tec PF9

$216 at CTD... Nearly exceeding the upper price cap with a BR check.
Looks great!
Kel-Tec has an excellent reputation for reliable firearms, and their product line is consistent in quality.
Another benefit: this little pistol actually has sights, unlike many guns this size


http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/images/D11/37/37893.jpg

If you want .38's and are okay with Taurus, JG Sales now has a lot of used 4 inch model 82s for ~150 each. I can't comment on how good those are though. Another option in that vein would be surplus CZ82s (~200 each), P64 (~150 each).

If you order all four at the same time you can request sequential S/N's for an additional touch.

Bersa Thunder .380 - http://www.impactguns.com/data/default/images/catalog/535/bersa_thun_380_duo.jpg
$250 @ Impact Guns






Kel-Tec P-11 - http://www.impactguns.com/data/default/images/catalog/535/kel_9mm_blue.jpg
$220 @ Impact Guns

Keltecs for the groomsmen and Kimber for you :)

Kel-tec is what I am about to buy myself and wife. Just Because! GREAT Gift.
Need any extra groomsmen.

How about a gift certificate to a local gun shop ?
I would rather have that money go towards a
quality firearm of my choice than a some cheap
gun.

Can I be the ring bearer, please, PLEASE!?. I'm old & bald but I can follow that cute, little flower-sprinkler as well as ANYBODY! My vote is the KelTec PF9. And congratulations on a bride/future wife who's in for this!some cheap gun No hijack intended here, but Carne Frio, the U.S. Marshall Service believes that handgun to be a fine BUG. I know for certain.

How about the mini-NAA revolvers?
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/products_id/51205

This combo model is pushing your $225 a bit, but Buds price does include shipping.

The 22LR version (not mag or combo) is $180.

And, with all respect, don't call your wife-to-be "the old ball & chain." If she's given you a green light for this project she's FAR from that description!

Q

I personally would love to get the Kel-Tec PF9 because it is a gun that I would not buy myself but am very curious about and would love to try it on someone else's dime. I have heard good things about them but I just haven't had a chance to use one and I can't spend the money just to satisfy my curiosity. Also the 9mm is better than the .380 or the .38. Congratulations.

“I would rather have that money go towards a quality firearm of my choice than a some cheap gun.”

Interesting comment allow me to reply. If I was walking into a gun store I doubt I would give much thought to buying a new $200.00 gun. No real interest in a Kel-Tec PF9 at all and I do not really care for a Bersa. I already own a NAA mini revolver and one is enough.

HOWEVER, if I was a groomsman in a friends wedding and he presented me with ANY gun I would be ecstatic and it would be a gun I would keep. A gift such as this means more than it’s net worth. We all have our personal values, or lack of them. I applaud the OP and wish him well in his search.

And I agree that any wife who would OK this at any level is a keeper. :D

OH, and I would go for the NAA .22. Little works of art.

Cheap well reviewed and tested gun is a good thing.
Cheap doesn't equal bad.

I would rather have that money go towards a
quality firearm of my choice than a some cheap
gun.

A little selfish and self serving don't you think? It would be a gift to you. You have no say. Accept it and move on. You don't like? Trade it in towards a more "quality firearm" :rolleyes:



OP, the Keltec PF9 is nice little gun.

Are you going to take the groomsmen in to have the back round checks done? They would then have pay for the guns themselves, other wise they wouldn't be the purchaser of the gun, and only you would get the back round check done.

Are you going to buy all four, then gift them? That would require only one back round check, and be perfectly legal assuming you know all three men are OK to accept them.

CDNN
J&G
SOG

are all having sales
CZ-82 are pretty cheap
you can get an isreali HP or CZ-75 clone from Century Arms for about 250
J&G has Taurus M84's, Singapore police trade-ins (I believe) for 180ish

You buy as the actual purchaser, then gift the guns - unless gifting a gun requires some kind of fee/permit/FFL intervention nonsense in your state.

I wouldn't turn down a KT PF9 as a gift, they're nice little carry guns, although they're not the greatest range toy. I want one for the light/thin factor, myself ... I keep almost buying one, but I have a thin 9x19 gun already.
It has a DA only trigger system with a somewhat long/heavy pull compared to your average range pistol - the PF9 was built as a carry gun from the start, and that's what it is good at.

Talk to your local shop about getting four on order, they can likely do a better deal than ordering online.

I'd rather get a $200 knife than a $200 gun.

Were I the giver, no legal hassles to worry about, either.

no legal hassles to worry aboutThat's a good point. But, unless I'm mistaken, in my state I can buy (and give away) as many guns as I want. As long as I'm not buying the guns as a straw-purchaser (for them with their money). i would think it's then THEIR responsibility to comply with the law. I would be interested in knowing for certain.
rockrogue, this is your first post & you didn't note where you're located. Might be wise to check your state gun laws or ask a local LEO for any unexpected complications to your plan.

wow! active thread.

I will edit the first post to respectfully say "fiance". She actually prefers "ball and chain" to "old lady" though. It is kind of an inside joke...

I will buy all 3, and gift them. My groomsmen are already all responsible gun owners.

I am NOT getting them gift certificates. These gins will most likely match and be new, and they will have engraved frame/slide/barrel depending on layout (wheel/auto/shotty). This makes no sense with a gift certificate.

Kimber for me... hmmm. Maybe at a later date.

I like the idea of consecutive serial #s, that is cool!

Sorry everyone, wedding party is full :neener:

I really like the surplus Polish P-64... looks like $180 at the first place I checked. If I could get 4 for $600 that would be awesome. I don't really like 9x18 that much, but with rounds this small I don't care that much. 9x19 and .380 are both acceptable to me, so of course 9x18 is as well.

That's a good point. But, unless I'm mistaken, in my state I can buy (and give away) as many guns as I want. As long as I'm not buying the guns as a straw-purchaser (for them with their money). i would think it's then THEIR responsibility to comply with the law. I would be interested in knowing for certain.
rockrogue, this is your first post & you didn't note where you're located. Might be wise to check your state gun laws or ask a local LEO for any unexpected complications to your plan.
I used to work at a company that was full of gun nuts and the company and a few of my co workers had FFLs. I am quite confident that it is legal here.

I am in Oregon.

I am quite confident that it is legal here.Then write the check! And as far as the Wedding Party being full, did I mention I'll pay my way & already own a tux?:o

HOWEVER, if I was a groomsman in a friends wedding and he presented me with ANY gun I would be ecstatic and it would be a gun I would keep. A gift such as this means more than it’s net worth. We all have our personal values, or lack of them. I applaud the OP and wish him well in his search.

And I agree that any wife who would OK this at any level is a keeper.

OH, and I would go for the NAA .22. Little works of art.


+1 to this

HAS mini. Classy

Oops naa mini

Oops naa mini
I'm not crazy about the looks of the mini revolvers...

So far I like:
New KelTec PF9s (hopefully haggled to $800 for 4)
Surplus Makarovs (Can't find em under $200 ea, and they aren't worth that to me)
Surplus P64s ($600 for 4)

I have plenty more looking to do though!

Thanks for all the replies so far guys, I would have never stumbled across the p64s without them.

I did a set of BP pistols. They were relatively cheap, super fun and classy. They also avoided all FFL complications, which was an issue because I had groomsmen from two countries and four states.
http://zak-smith.org/DigiCam/Wedding/smaller/U100_7526_img.jpg

Do all your groomsmen already own semi-autos? If they do, why not go with a chrome or nickel plated magazine for each of them that fits what they already shoot, engraved with the event particulars and loaded with some nice JHPs?

As a few others have said, I have very little personal interest in ever buying a subcompact firearm. Having said that, I think the Keltec PF9 is an extremely classy gift idea, and it would be something I would keep (and use) my entire life.

I think its an outstanding idea.

Whatever gun you get (great idea, btw), if you can carve out enough budget to include a nice presentation case the gift will be even more special. A nice case with the recipient's name on a brass tag would be a very classy touch.

Cobra Arms Big bore Derringer. 9mm. They look dangerous and sexy. The perfect mans gift. IMO
I have not shot one of these and i'm sure there will be opinions shared about them. I've been looking at getting one my self. They are really nice looking, all shiny and with the rosewood grips. They come in 9mm. They won't break the bank and you will have some money left over to buy a presentation box. Great idea BTW.
Remember this is a present they will remember. Don't worry about usability too much. Get the coolest and best looking gun you can. Keltec ahhh... Doesn't grab you like the Derringer does.

http://gunsgunsguns.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Cobra-BigBoreDerringer-lg2.jpg

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=264960282

i want to get 2 pf9s eventually(just to have fun and make a jackass out of myself :D) and although theres numerous stories about how problematic they are, at $215 each and kel-tecs customer service i dont think ill be jumping off the deep end with them.

I love the ones dark grey grips and the square checkering pattern is just super apeealing for some reason

Wow...the last time I was in a wedding I got a 36 ounce beer mug with my name engraved on it, filled with chocolates and mini bar liquor bottles :).

I would go for the gift certificate idea also, unless the 200 bucks each went towards used Remington 870 12 Gauge Shotguns.

Just my .02,
LeonCarr

Shotguns... I eluded to this being a possibility in an earlier post. I think all 3 of my groomsman have 12 gage pumps, and in black. Wouldn't really enrich any of their collections.

that derringer is pretty.

I realize this is a little bit form over function, but i'm an engineer. I can't buy something I don't want to put a few hundred rounds through.

Presentation boxes is a great idea! thanks!

If long guns aren't out of the question how about some marlin .22's or Mosin Nagants? There are a few .22 1911 knockoffs like chiappa and American Classic that are just a bit over the budget but which would be handsome

I was going to suggest the CZ-82 but I really like the idea of those cap and ball revolvers. Can you find a way to get each of them a "Three Persons" type holster to go with their tuxes?

mike

Another gift option for the outdoorsman is a "presentation grade" fixed blade knife & sheath. $200 buys a lot more (even custom) knife than gun.

But if it's guns - I think the Keltec PF-9 would be a great inexpensive gun. I would be happy to receive any firearm if I was a groomsman!

Either way, you are a class act for entertaining the idea all together - and your future bride gets my vote too for letting this happen...

Taurus PT 22? runs about 200-205 from buds- Not a bad looking pocket gun. Don't know how well they run. Also have the PT25 in that price range- but really, I'd rather have a 22lr over a 25acp.

Just thinking out loud, but if everyone owns a common platform, (maybe an AR15) you could get everyone engraved conversion kits for 22lr or something.

The Puma 1911 22lr is 199 shipped from buds.

What about engraved AR15 lower receivers? That would be way under budget, you could probably even put an LPK in them for your groomsmen.

obviously the p-64 is in your range, but you weren't a fan of the caliber.

You could get everyone a new 10/22- tough to give a more useful and fun gift than that.

I know my suggestions are very 22lr centric, but I think you can get the most quality in your price range with that caliber.

I changed my mind. Cap and ball revolvers are the way to go. Great gift.

How about a gift certificate to a local gun shop? I would rather have that money go towards a quality firearm of my choice than a some cheap gun.

Bingo. If someone gave me a Krap-Tec, I'd give it back, and we would no longer be friends. I'd rather have a $100 Home Depot gift certificate. Or even a 12-pack of Budweiser. :)

I wouldn't scoff at the Kel-TEC. I think Ruger LCPs are under 300 from Buds, but perhaps a bit steep. They would all have to be in state residents for an HG...interstate the fed transfer regs kick in....

Please post a pick when you get the laser etching done.....

I kinda like the idea of laser engraved AR lowers too! I would love to look down at an AR and see a my bros design.... Not immediate gratification but pretty cool.

smith sigma

How bout a Tokarev?
http://www.jgsales.com/romanian-tokarev-ttc,-7.62x25-nice-semi-auto-pistols,-very-good-condition.-p-6346.html

What ZAK did.

http://images.cabelas.com/is/image/cabelas/s7_218129_999_01?rgn=0,0,2000,587&scl=5.2631578947368425&fmt=jpeg&id=3bRpWTFn1P9dWHoxBLWnn7

http://images.cabelas.com/is/image/cabelas/s7_210067_999_01?rgn=0,0,1908,577&scl=5.021052631578947&fmt=jpeg&id=1vjQaWgBPtddaLuAgPeIBC

Both at 229$ at cabelas.

(... would you really wanna gift plastic to your groomsmen???)

Get the NNA mini or a cap and ball. They have the kind of class you just won't find in a keltec.

Dude what a great idea. What about the Keltec P3AT? Also the Bersa Thunder is decient. Wherever you get the guns ask for a 'bulk' discount. Wouldn't hurt to ask. All they can say is no.

I'd go with the NAA. I may have to steal this idea for when I get hitched

A P64 is a beautiful gun, especially when you consider what it costs. It also is very similar to a PPK, those go great with a tux - thank you Mr. Bond. I would go with those or the cap and ball revolvers.

I really think the Black Powder Revolver is a great idea.

They strike me as being classy, with longevity, something they could hang up on the wall with pride, and almost an heirloom--especially with engraving. I like these: http://www.cabelas.com/product/Shooting/Black-Powder/Pistols-Revolvers%7C/pc/104792580/c/104701680/sc/104503680/Pietta-Model-1858-New-Army-44-Caliber-Revolver/731695.uts?destination=/catalog/browse/shooting-black-powder-pistols/_/N-1100201 or these http://www.cabelas.com/product/Shooting/Black-Powder/Pistols-Revolvers%7C/pc/104792580/c/104701680/sc/104503680/Pietta-Model-1858-New-Army-44-Caliber-Revolver/731695.uts?destination=/catalog/browse/shooting-black-powder-pistols/_/N-1100201

Something so cool, in my opinion, of gifting a .44 revolver of steel, wood and brass.

I'll jump in with the other black powder guys, that is a fantastic idea. Their spouses probably wouldn't object to a "quaint and antiquated" firearm. Definitely a nice wallhanger that can be fired for the fun of it. :cool:

I did a set of BP pistols. They were relatively cheap, super fun and classy. They also avoided all FFL complications, which was an issue because I had groomsmen from two countries and four states.
http://zak-smith.org/DigiCam/Wedding/smaller/U100_7526_img.jpg

I really like the black powder idea as well!

Will they be able to fire it tho'? Do they sell a little set of all the things you need to fire one of those things?

It would be nice to have a "my first cap and ball kit" :)
A dozen balls
a dozen caps
2 tbsp of powder
little rod thing
whatever else you need thing

I buy my reloading stuff by the 1000's but if I ever got "gifted" an old timer's pistol like that, I would want to be able to purchase a ready-to-go package to only shoot a cylinder or two.

I really like the looks of that Cobra 9mm derringer. They are classy, yet modern. I bet they would look great with custom engraving.

There have been some changes to "the plan" from the fience. I have 3 groomsmen, and my brother is officiating the wedding. She said I am to oly get 4 guns, and I con't leave my bro out... Which makes sense to me. I really wanted a souvinier as well, but I guess I can always replicate at a later date. Here are my options as I see them:

cobra derringer nickel/cherry ~$140
Pheonix arms HP22A ~$125
KelTec PF9 ~$225
Cabelas (or other) cap/ball BP pistol ~$185
Surplus p64 ~$160

So the issue with the P64 is that the laser etchign or engraving will probably look bad on a 30 year old gun with a lot of wear on it. Taking all 4 apart and re blueing them would be complicated with all the parts that are likely to break, so I think they may be out.

The ball&cap BP pistols are sweet looking, but highly impractical. The price is enticing though.

The HP22A is no doubt a cheap firearm. The company stands behind their mediocre product, and the are cute little pocket guns that cost nothing to shoot.

The KelTec is out of the price range. I don't think I can swing 4X that plus engraving.

the derringers are seeming more and more cool, and also classy.

Shooting a 9mm derringer feels like getting punched in the hand - HARD. It's not fun at all, and if that was all I had and my life was threatened - that would be the only time I'd want to fire one again. Yes they look kinda "neat" but as for function, they are horrible.

I vote KelTec all the way! Those are about as small as you can go and COMFORTABLY (within reason) shoot 9mm. YMMV!

If you're leaning toward Cap & Ball revolvers, for Pete's sake make sure they're nice steel-framed models. There's very few better looking/shooting handguns (IMHO) than a .36 caliber Navy Colt. If they're good enough for Wild Bill (he carried two), they're SURE to be appreciated by your Groomsmen.

I'd read some reviews on the options presented before deciding one way or the other since there have been a number of recommendations made by members that don't have any direct experience with the firearms.

The ball&cap BP pistols are sweet looking, but highly impractical. The price is enticing though.

One downside is just buying a cap and ball revolver gets you just the cap and ball revolver. You can get one with the "starter" kit which includes everything but the powder. The downside is adding each one of those items would bring the price of each gun above your price range.

However, I do like the idea of cap and ball revolvers if it weren't for all that. If any of the groomsmen aren't a serious shooter, they have a nice memento that isn't as easy to make unsafe as a modern cartridge gun can be. Especially if that groomsman doesn't have any caps, balls, or powder lying around.

I remember one wedding that I was a groomsman in and all I got was a big ol' country style belt buckle. It is a cool memento and the thought is appreciated, but I don't dress in cowboy style clothing. So, if I were to get an unusable groomsman's gift, I'd prefer a cap and ball gun over a belt buckle any day. :D

Combining the black powder idea with a wedding/marriage theme, how about giving each a set of matched flintlock dueling pistols? :evil:

I really dig the C&B revolver idea. Personally, I'd graciously accept any fire arm as a gift, but a C&B engraved with the event date would be something special. I wouldn't mind one bit if I had to purchase the caps, balls, powder, etc myself afterwards.

I think an old school C&B is more classy than a mouse gun or an old Milsurp. Although, the Polish P-64 would be my second choice on your list.

This wasn't on your list, but consider this. I have given several guns as gifts, and as I look back, Had I given a well made .22, like a Ruger stainless auto, everyone of the recipients would have had a durable, accurate, FUN gun that would get used occasionally for plinking, training a new shooter, hunting, or whatever. AND, probably never "go out of style", as new defensive guns do (what IS the next best self defesne auto?", etc. A Ruger .22 auto is almost like a Volkswagen bug...timeless. A gift that would keep on giving, and being used, for many years.

I think it's a great idea.

Space out your handgun purchases so none are within 5 days so you stay off the ATF naughty list.

I would also consider nice knives or black powder, as someone mentioned, to avoid the FFL issues, particularly if some are from out of state/country.

Or what about nice C&R pistols, - you could get them refinished/chromed, etc.

If you shop around, used revolvers in bulk are around the $250 mark.

I think we're getting a little wild here... The budget is below $200, and whatever it is will compete with the $113 phoenix .22LR plinker... So keep that in mind. I don't have the money/time to refurbish anything.

I would love to get 4 ruger .22s, but where are they less than $200? Most of them are more than that used!

Those derringers come in other calibers as well. http://www.cobrapistols.net/product-big-bore-derringers.asp
I wouldn't worry about it being a daily shooter. This is a memento. You need to buy a gun that they would never buy them selves. A derringer is just that. I can't justify spending the money on it, so I don't own one. Would I love one for Christmas? You bet!!
When you give gifts to guys you want them to tell their buddies, "Hey, look at this sweet gun I got for being in my friends wedding."
Any gun that makes you say ahhh, psh, mmmmm, might not fit the bill. You need a gun that says Sweet!, wow! BA!
Just the opinion of someone that wishes someone would give him a derringer for Christmas.

I think the Ruger automatics he was referring to was the 10/22, but I could be mistaken.

In any case, although not a handgun, a personalized 10/22 would be a great option.

i really like the idea here, to me it's just great. That said some of these guys ideas are also great, really like the derringers, love the idea of the cap and ball (just becarefull of the model, some look alot better than others, and that seems like the purpose of the c&b guns-looks), the 22 plinkers would also be a good choice, have you seen the 1911 22lr's buds has on sale right now for $199. just a thought

HOW ABOUT 4 OF THESE http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/products_id/59751

Those 1911 .22s are SWEET! But they will exceed $200 with a check and shipping : ( For the money for a plinker, I think I would go with the phoenix... I heard they are out of production. A store near my house gets them in periodically for $99. I might go to a gun show this weekend and see if I can find Makarovs for under $180 a piece. The wife to be is really trying hard for a Ruger Mark III or a Browning Buckmark, but they are both $250 used!

Still somewhere between surplus European stuff (makarov, P64), Derringers, or the phoenix HP22a.

P64 with a nice custom box

Combining the black powder idea with a wedding/marriage theme, how about giving each a set of matched flintlock dueling pistols? :evil:

+100

but my real vote goes towards those 1911 .22s, they look great, and .22s are just so dang fun

great idea Rockrogue! Your groomsmen will feel so loved :)

HOWEVER, if I was a groomsman in a friends wedding and he presented me with ANY gun I would be ecstatic and it would be a gun I would keep. A gift such as this means more than it’s net worth. We all have our personal values, or lack of them. I applaud the OP and wish him well in his search.

And I agree that any wife who would OK this at any level is a keeper.

+1 on this!- & the laser engraving will make it a gift they will almost certainly have to keep.

Man, I love this idea, and have almost bought the Kel-tec 9 twice, but did not. I'll second the thoughts

You might check this link.... it's a bit more expensive than what you are looking for, and used surplus, but looks like a good deal.

SW5906 Used S&W 5906 9mm Handgun includes 1 High Cap Mag $275.00
http://www.wideners.com/itemdetail.cfm?item_id=100000277&dir=700|1012|1026

P64 with a nice custom box
Yeah they are cool. I just really think I would rather get a Makarov. I hate how all the cool surplus stuff gets so popular and skyrockets in value.

Shipping most pistols is $20-30 for singles, $15 each when shipping a bunch. a $200 1911 .22 is going to exceed $200. They are sweet, but don't fit the bill this time.

Any other suggestions?

I think the derringers are still a great idea and look fantastic....you could also laser engrave the grips with some kind of symbol, etc... And BTW get five of them anyway, this is your last chance to go with the bros before.... Well you know what I mean.... You can't leave your Bro or yourself out of the mix....it is standard to give an officient an honorarium. I'd say mine are usually between $200 - $500. So that fifth gun is not a groomsmen gift it is the officients honorarium.

Gosh, I really wish I could have given out handguns as groomsman gifts....

AWESOME idea!

Do some knives or watches and not worry about it. If you really want to do a gun then get something fun. NAA mini would be good.

I'll have to vote for the idea of a derringer, too, if you can somehow swing the cost.

I don't own one, but I kind of feel like the more ridiculous the caliber, the more attractive they become. Do you want to fire a derringer built to fire a 7.62 round? I know I don't. The idea is just so cool, though.

Those Bond Arms derringers look really sweet. They don't get as crazy as 7.62. The .45LC / .410 combo may be their most punishing offering. It's too bad that Academy feels the need to have their logo punched into the holsters of the ones they sell. Those things are 3 times your budget, anyway.

Ideally, you will only be getting married just this once. At 200 to 225, your question is not easily answered.

.

a .45 derringer would hurt bad enough I think...

I know I said I didn't like the looks of the baby revolvers earlier, but I went to NAAs webpage, and I really like the 1 5/8" barrel .22 mag&LR ones, and they are about $180 online. So there is another option. I didn't make it to the gun show, too busy with the holidays.

I have a question if anyone knows the answer (please don't post comments unless you have direct experience or first hand testimony from an expert in the field). Will a non-stainless metal rust after being blued and then laser etched or engraved? I would think that the gun would have to consistently stay oiled to not rust (which isn't that big of a deal).

Here is the list as it currently sits: ($gun, $marking, $shipping)

1. Phoenix HP22s, laser etched, local store if they get them in stock $99+$0+$0 = $99
2. Derringer (caliber?), laser etch, from online $140+$0+$10 = $150
3. Makarov, engraved, hopeful from gunshow, $180+$10+$0 = $190
4. NAA .22LR or .22mag, laser etch, from online, $180+$0+$10 = $190
5. P64, engraved, hopeful from gunshow, $150+$10+$0 = $160
6. BP revolver, laser etch, from cabelas, $180+$0+$10 = $190

I got a Kel Tec PF9 over the weekend - suchs a sweet little gun.
Great for CCW.

I like #4 and #6 of your updated list. I don't think you'll go wrong with either. :) If you're worried about rust, then the stainless NAA would be a good way to go.

.22LR NAA is classy, cheap to feed, and would be a great gift.

I keep looking at all the options. I think I MUST have the NAA revolvers. They are just awesome (and the only thing on my list that is new AND quality except the derringer or CB revolver).

Now I just need to find a deal on them.

.22LR or mag, 1 1/8 or 1 5/8 barrel, stainless with wood grip (black 2nd choice). SO far CTD has them for $166. I'm probably better off buying local after shipping and additional transfer fees at the local FFL.

I think this is the best looking of them all: http://www.northamericanarms.com/firearms/magnums/mag/m.html

The 1 5/8 barrel seems proportional to the Mag, while the 1 1/8 barrel seems proportional to the LR. I like how the handle is just a tad bigger on the mag as well.

Another vote for the NAA revolvers. Seems like a great choice. Something most gun people might not buy for themselves, but should be lots of fun to own and shoot.

If someone gave me a Krap-Tec, I'd give it back, and we would no longer be friends. I'd rather have a $100 Home Depot gift certificate. Or even a 12-pack of Budweiser.
I assume your just joking around, but honestly if someone was so ignorant as to give back a gift I picked out for them, there would be no need for them to drop me as a friend, I would gladly do the dropping. :mad:

I would gladly take a nagant revolver, since it is something I would not buy to myself but I would love to have.

Yeah ... I am a sucker.

As a groomsman I’d take any gun and be happy, but for your budget I rather have the black powder revolver then any of the others; even though I’ve never shot black powder.

You can buy them from Cabelas for under your budget without any of the legal hassles and this one even comes with the starter kit.

http://www.cabelas.com/Black-Powder/Pistols-Revolvers (http://www.cabelas.com/product/Shooting/Black-Powder/Pistols-Revolvers%7C/pc/104792580/c/104701680/sc/104503680/Pietta-Model-1851-Navy-Confederate-44-Caliber-Revolver-with-Starter-Kit/740135.uts?destination=%2Fcatalog%2Fbrowse.cmd%3FN%3D1100201%26WTz_l%3DSBC%253BBRprd705020)

I don’t know if it’s crap or quality but I’d be ecstatic to get one. You can even get free shipping.

IF YOU GO WITH THE NAA MINI DONT FORGET THE BAYONETS http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2010/06/02/bayonets-for-naa-mini-revolvers/

Another vote for the NAA revolvers. Seems like a great choice. Something most gun people might not buy for themselves, but should be lots of fun to own and shoot.


I assume your just joking around, but honestly if someone was so ignorant as to give back a gift I picked out for them, there would be no need for them to drop me as a friend, I would gladly do the dropping. :mad:
I would describe about 50% of the gun brands out there as rightfully argued in terms of quality. Kel Tec doesn't make the list for me. I would be thrilled to own one and I would trust my life to one like I would my Glock, Remington (BA, shotty), Winchester (BA), or DPMS AR.

And I also think that was a joke. I wouldn't a have a friend who drinks that beer anyway!:barf::neener: (I live in oregon where we have about 50 micro breweries worth of beer to choose from)

Back on topic: Any thoughts on where to laser an NAA mini? ON the top of the frame above the cylinder? On the left side of the frame? Cylinder? I think the cylinder will get more wear... maybe... They are so small there aren't many places to laser!

I think the NAA Mini is the best option. It's not something most people would buy for themselves but would be really fun to have.
I think a really nice knife from a quality manufacturer would be the 2nd best option. I gave my best man a really nice Case lock-back 27 years ago and he tells me he never uses it because he doesn't want to mess it up. Just keeps it in his gun safe and brings it out to look at every once in a while.

gave my wife a NAA for a wedding present with her new initials on the top strap. So if you are getting one for the guys, why not for the girls also?

I would go with the NAA. I don't have one, but a friend has several. They are very well made and fun to shoot. Not only that, you could have shooting matches and see who is the best shot for less than the price of a six pack. Best wishes!

I purchased a derringer once, (a double barrel .410/ 44 combo). and they are great if you 4'8", and 100 lbs... I am 6' 3", 220 lbs with big hands. the Kel tec 9 was almost too small in my hands, the derringers were even smaller After one shot I gave it to my Dad for a present... It kicked like a mule... I don't think he has ever fired it.

I think the size of your groomsmen should be considered

DavidE wrote,
I'd rather get a $200 knife than a $200 gun.

Were I the giver, no legal hassles to worry about, either.
I'm with DavidE on this one. You can get a pretty nice knife for $200.

A $200 knife is probably something I'd really like to have, but it is something I may be hesitant to spend so much money for since it would be such a luxury. That is a great gift in my mind.

On the other hand, a $200 pistol is something I may buy if I had an extra $200 sitting around. It is not something I would really cherish since my other guns are worth at least $300 more than that. It is not something I'd ever take the effort to save up for to buy for myself. If I saw a $200 knife that I really liked, I'd save up for that.

Of course they are your groomsmen, and you know what they would like better than us.

Can I be in the wedding?

Oh, NVM. saw you are going with the NAA. I'll just stay at home...

NAA = good choice

I always wanted one, got one, then determined it was fairly useless as any type of back up to my back up carry piece.
Cocking, aiming and firing that thing under any sort of stress would require more practice than I cared to allocate. (no offense to those who think it's a great carry piece...my opinion)

That said... they ARE little works of art, and for your purpose, they exude class much moreso than a KT, or some of the other options in your price range.

Nice gift, OP. Since they are so unique, I'll bet in 15 years your groomsmen wil each have them as opposed to a KT or other inexpensive gun which may have been traded off.


A nice auto knife would be a great secondary option if you run into snags w/firearm purchase.


*also, thumbs up to Zak...BP pistols and that pic you displayed - very cool idea

I'm with DavidE on this one. You can get a pretty nice knife for $200.

A $200 knife is probably something I'd really like to have, but it is something I may be hesitant to spend so much money for since it would be such a luxury. That is a great gift in my mind.

On the other hand, a $200 pistol is something I may buy if I had an extra $200 sitting around. It is not something I would really cherish since my other guns are worth at least $300 more than that. It is not something I'd ever take the effort to save up for to buy for myself. If I saw a $200 knife that I really liked, I'd save up for that.

Of course they are your groomsmen, and you know what they would like better than us.
I am confident they will appreciate just about anything I would buy them, especially any item that is of high quality for the class of firearm it is in.

For example, a $200 hi-point is not worth a damn in quality compared to an H&K. However, a $200 NAA mini is a very high quality firearm (I forgot the other mini revolver MFR I saw, but the NAAs are known to be much better).

The other thing is that these will be part of a matched engraved set of firearms. I am sure that if one of my friends was having trouble paying a mortgage or something and they opened their safe to head to the pawn shop (they would sooner sell their clothes, cars, food, electronics, and windows out of their homes) that they would not grab the engraved memento from a wedding that cannot be replaced. I think a surplus AK or higher valued and easily replaced glock would go first.

My groomsmen will probably leave these weapons to their kids when they pass away like all the other nice guns they own. I doubt they will have any special meaning to their kids though, which is fine.

They will appreciate anything you buy, but that doesn't mean they'll use it.

I got a pewter mug as best man many years ago. I appreciated it, but I haven't used it a single time. It's stored in a box somewhere.

I have 3 NAA revolvers I've owned 15 yrs and shoot them maybe once every 2-3 yrs. If you can get them bought and engraved for $200 each total, that's a pretty good price. (my vote is for the .22 magnum. The Pug if you can swing it)

I have had a knife in my pocket since I was 10 and use it several times a day. My current one is a Sebenza that my wife got me 3 yrs ago for a landmark occasion. I think of her many times each day as I use it several times throughout.

I suspect my kids will fight over this one because I use it daily, making it identifiable with me. I have other knives they know nothing about and therefore have very little meaning to them.

Best wishes on your upcoming marriage!

I think the PF9 would be a great, practical option. I would love to have one.

However, I think the NAA is the right choice. It's something most folks wouldnt buy themselves and they are handsome. I know my brother in law gave us all stainless, leather wrapped flasks with our initials engraved. It's a treasured, sentimental possession. I think that NAA is something that will be easy to be kept in good shape and something that will bring fond memories whenever it's brought out.

Congratulations.

edit: Definitely need to get the bayonets to match. CQC can be unpredictable!

double edit: I don't know if the street price falls in your range, but that NAA Earl is one good looking mini-revolver

Get 'em some hookers.

hookers, haha.

The earl is cool, but too big to be a mini in my book... based on the length.

I stumbled on some single shot shotguns too. H&R and Rossi Both make break away single shots for about $125... now we are talking shotguns in the handgun forum, AHHHH!

I found a source on the .22 Magnum NAA Minis for a little under $200 each including transfer and a check.

I also found a source on polish compact makarovs, for about $180 apiece. That is super tempting too...

I keep thinking about going out with "the guys" and shooting these things every now and then. The minis, single shotty, or a makarov would all be good for that.

The P64 can be a fun gun if you're a collector, but I have yet to see one that was in god functional condition right off the truck. They generally have atrocious trigger pulls and need replacement springs to get them working properly. My first one needed two hands to pull the trigger in DA.

I was looking at some of the NAA's yesterday. They really are little jewels. I would be happy as heck to be gifted one.

The P64 can be a fun gun if you're a collector, but I have yet to see one that was in god functional condition right off the truck. They generally have atrocious trigger pulls and need replacement springs to get them working properly. My first one needed two hands to pull the trigger in DA.

I was looking at some of the NAA's yesterday. They really are little jewels. I would be happy as heck to be gifted one.
All things being considered (cost, impression upon gifting, longevity, shooting fun/value, functionality, class factor, build quality) All point to NAA. I appreciate your comments on your personal experience with the 63. I have heard that their triggers are stiff... Made me want to spend the extra $30 for a "real" makarov.

I can tell you that I would never buy a NAA revolver but I think they are cool as hell. I would certainly love one as this sort of gift.

As for like a bersa/keltec...I may use it more but it's probably a less exciting and memorable gift

My 0.02. I would choose the derringer in a smaller caliber, maybe 38 special or 380. I would get one for myself as well, because I think it would make the gift more special - so I would choose a less expensive gun and get 5 instead of 4 at $200.

Everyone has their personal preferences when carrying a gun, so they should buy ones that fit them. So, I would not try to buy a carry piece, ie PF9, P64, makarovs, etc. I would want something that is special and fun and presents well in a beautiful box because that is the way it will likely be seen by your friends most. So, cost and presentation wise, the derringer makes the most sense to me, and I think it would look stunning in a presentation box (which really doesn't need to be expensive at all - it may be able to fit in a jewelry box).

Also, if any of them carry, you may want to get a pocket holster for the derringer or NAA so that you can gift at the rehearsal dinner and they can carry them on your wedding day.

If I were receiving it, I'd like the derringer in .38spl or the NAA with the longest barrel within your price range. Great idea!

I'd also enjoy the BP, although I might never actually shoot it. Dollar for dollar, a BP pistol is the most beautiful gift, but if you want to shoot them...

A set of cleaned up model 10's would look nice... they do drop to around $200 once in a while still... though not as often as they used to.

CZ-82's drop to that range too if you like the Makarov chamberings. ( I do )

Congrats to you and the Ball and Chain, I've heard worse "cute" nicknames... My wife and I habitually and lovingly refer to each other as "the stupid ugly bastard" and the "withered old harridan" ..... 17 years together in Feb and going strong.