Best autoloader under $400?

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N3rday

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What are some good examples of good, reliable autoloaders under $400? I'm talking something in 9mm, that is big enough for home defense but could be used for CCW when the time comes. For the sake of argument, no preference as to single or double stack.
I've been searching on the internet, and I just cannot seem to find a regular 9mm handgun in this price range, other than the hideously ugly Hi-Point and the Kel-tec, which is a tad smaller than what I'm looking for.

Thanks in advance!
 
sorry but for that money i would have to say kel-tech p11 or the sky which is a clone of it , not many relyable autos in that range tho someone may well chime inn with a cz and most of them seem exceptional according to reports
 
Used CZ, New Ruger, take your pick of models... heck new CZs are only $410 here.

Taurus.

Used Smith and Wesson.

Sigs from CDNN catalog I bet.

Used XD.

I bet there's yet more... $400 will get you a lot of gun if you're smart.
 
In any order:
CZ 40, 40P, 75

EAA Witness, 9mm, 40, 10mm

FEG HP Clone

Used CDNN Sig.

Ruger P series.
 
Well, I'm not yet 21 so I can't buy from an FFL, which leaves private transfers. I'm guessing I'll have to go with something used. Nonsensical federal handgun purchase laws =(.
 
Uh... if you're not 21, you can't go private purchase, either... not legally.

That being said... when you do reach it, CZ...
 
Remington 870, since you can't legally buy a handgun yet. Load it w/ #4 if you have shared walls or trajectory issues.

Don't break the law.
Absolutely do not break the law and then blab about it all over the internet.

BTW, I bought my G19 used like-new for $400. It's the best $400 I ever spent.

JH
 
Uh... if you're not 21, you can't go private purchase, either... not legally.
Click to expand...
That depends on Texas state law. Federal law says he can buy from a private party legally.

The following is from http://www.atf.gov/firearms/faq/faq2.htm#b5
(B15) May a parent or guardian purchase firearms or ammunition as a gift for a juvenile (less than 18 years of age)? [Back]


Yes. However, possession of handguns by juveniles (less than 18 years of age) is generally unlawful. Juveniles may only receive and possess handguns with the written permission of a parent or guardian for limited purposes, e. g., employment, ranching, farming, target practice or hunting. [18 U. S. C. 922( x)]
Click to expand...
Heck, in Indiana, you can get a carry permit at 18!
 
Ok, I've been through this a million times...the deal is, the federal law says that you have to be 21 to buy FROM AN FFL. The law ONLY prohibits purchase from an FFL. From there it all depends on your state. I live in Texas, where the legal age to own a handgun is 18. So I can legally purchase a handgun in a private transfer but not from anyone who is a licensed dealer.

It's pretty ironic, if you think about it. I can buy from any old Joe legally right now, but not from a reputable gun shop. It doesn't make sense, but that's what the law says.

Anyways, I like the suggestions so far, and I'm definitely going to have to do some more research, especially with some of these I've never heard of (EAA witness = CZ knockoff?)
 
I don't know anyone who is under 21 that has a handgun. :confused:

Under $400? I think the poster also wants a new gun. I think the Taurus millenium runs around that price, new.
 
I know. It all sounds stupid. The Feds let you buy from a private party at 18-20 years of age, but to buy from a licensed dealer you gotta be 21. That's the government for you!
 
I was 19 when I got my first handgun. My mother bought it for me. It was a Ruger Police Service Six in .357 magnum. I think I paid about $200.00 for it. Of course, this was like 1975.
 
Good suggestions, any CZ some models you can get new for that price. Second would be the XD and then the Witness. You might also look for a used Steyr M9. All those guns would serve you well.
 
I'd look at the SIGpro 2340 or the new 2022s in .40s&w or .357SIG. The 2340 can definitely be had for under $400 NIB, but the 2022 I think will run closer to $500. They are practically the same, except the 2022 uses a standard picatinny-type light rail, while the 2340 uses a proprietary rail (which sucks, btw).

My 2340 has been reliable through thousands of rounds and two tactical handgun courses. The trigger is super-smooth. I've heard that it's just as smooth or smoother than the other all-metal SIGs. SIG accuracy as well. I paid too much for it several years ago (over $400) and am still contemplating trading it in for a 2022. Even so, I'd say that the SIGpro is just like getting a quality P-series SIG but for an excellent price. I really think it is one of the most underrated pistols out there.
 
CZ or SIG Pro

Based on your parameters my choices would be limited to either the SIG Pro, SP2009 in particular, or the CZ-75B. I prefer 9mm because it is effective in every regard thanks to supply/demand and modern ammunition. I have owned both of the firearms mentioned. Further, I would not feel as if my budget had been a limitation. Either is a fine first handgun or primary handgun backup. IF I were compelled to pick one over the other then it would be the SIG Pro. This is primarily due to the ability for the user to select the most appropriate size grip as well as the ability to add a short trigger. That being said the SIG Pro with the small grip and a short trigger felt almost, although not good enough for cult gun status;), as good as a P225. Finally, both SIG and CZ owners seem to really take care of their own. FWIW and respectfully submitted.
 
Where in Texas are you?

If you're in the San Antonio area check out the Saxet gun show every 1st Saturday & Sunday of the month. There are plenty of private sellers and you should be able to pick up a quality gun for $400 or under. You're best off going in knowing what you want and what is a fair price.

Depending on what you are using the pistol for, it's hard to beat the CZ or a Taurus.
 
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