Cheap but reliable 9mm platform?

[Atom Smasher]

The gun fund is low. Very low, in fact, under $400. The question is, do I wait and save a little more and pick up a quality 9mm, or do I pick up a pistol for plinking now? I have a Sig 220 in .45ACP, but it's a little pricey to shoot every weekend. While 9mm isn't as cheap as .22LR, it's still got the punch I want in a gun plus I can still use it for carry/IDPA events. So, recommendations? There are a half-million "Recommend a 9mm!" threads here on THR, but I feel that most focus more on other, more important (imo) factors such as accuracy, mechanical durability/reliability, or aesthetic value than hitting a particular price point.

I agree that buying a weapon based on a desired price point isn't the best way to go about it, but however that's where I am right now. I have .22LR pistols, I have the .45ACP, but now I want a 9mm. THR dudes (and dudettes), what are your favorite, relatively inexpensive, reliable handguns? Are there brands to avoid at the $400?

 

[Skribs]

Well if it's money you're looking to save, you're going to through ~3000 rounds to make the difference (judging by the price of WWB bulk ammo). But hey, another gun is always fun!

I'm a fan of the XD platform, but you'd need to save up a bit ($529 for the standard size 9mm).

 

[Mr.Blue]

IMHO - save a little more and get a CZ 75B. You should be able to get one for $450-$475. It is all steel and the most accurate 9mm out there. Do some research and you'll see how well thought of they are. It can be used for target work, home protection, and competition.

 

[The Sarge]

Under $400 9mm
Stoeger Cougar (Beretta) 8000 A++
Bersa UC 9mm A++
Ruger P95 A
Kel Tec P-11 B
Kel Tec PF9 C

 

[Atom Smasher]

I suppose I should elaborate- I know that 9mm isn't MUCH cheaper, but hey I need a justification for spending more gun money

I'm a big dude, so no need to focus on compact weapons (although they aren't by any means ruled out), and I absolutely prefer an autoloader instead of a revolver, especially if I'm going to be (potentially) carrying this as a defense weapon.

 

[Telekinesis]

I actually bought a like new Glock 17 (and I mean brand new) for $400 last week. I'd probably stick with a G19 if you're planning on carrying it though. Sig P6s should be under $400 too, though they're single stacks.

If you're able to stretch your budget a bit more, some of the older W.German Sigs usually hover around $500. They're not new by any means, but a lot of the ones I've come across were fired very little and are still in good shape.

 

[jleyring]

I just got the Sig SP2022. It is right around $400 and so far it shoots great. It was there first polymer frame. It is Sig so it is quality of course. The only draw back is that it only came with 1 mag.

 

[Zone15]

Academy Sports has the SIG SP2022 for $399.

 

[chris in va]

My CZ 75BD has been an amazing tool for our local IDPA events. The Sig 220 I had didn't work for me in the matches, so I sold it.

Our local shop has the 75's for $495. Gotta scrape together another hundred man!

 

[marine 97-03]

S/W sd9 or sig p250

 

[Sky]

How about a $700+ gun for $299. Centerfire systems has 5906 gen 3 S&W police trade-ins. If to big or heavy they have the 6906 for $329. Several here at THR have purchased them.

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=600316

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=578808

 

[ET]

Another vote for the S&W SD9.

 

[sigarms228]

I just got the Sig SP2022. It is right around $400 and so far it shoots great. It was there first polymer frame. It is Sig so it is quality of course. The only draw back is that it only came with 1 mag.

I agree with this the SP2022 is a fantastic pistol regardless of price. Mine has not had a single issue in just over 1000 rounds now, great trigger, and excellent accuracy.

 

[marine 97-03]

Sig p 250

 

[JROC]

For a new gun under $400 IMO the best choice by far is a Ruger SR9. Not unless you can find a good deal on maybe a slightly used police issued gun or something. Not long a go a store localed in the Carolina's called Lawmens was selling new M&P for I believe something like $398. I bought my CZ 75 Pre-B for $329 and it's a great gun. Its a old Czech police issued surplus gun.

 

[REAPER4206969]

There are all sorts of sub $400 pistols that are nice.

 

[winchester '97]

I got a FEG Hi Power that is an exact enough copy to take browning parts for 320$ OTD, shoots one hole groups and doesn't jam. I have also heard great things about The Star Model B pistols, and Star handguns in general, Also check out the Tanfoglio CZ-75 builds on Gunbroker.

 

[towboat_er]

Another vote for the 5906.
FEG Hi Power is another good choice.

 

[JPG19]

If I were you, I'd save for a bit longer and get a Gen3 Glock 19. I'm extremely pleased with mine and, provided that it is comfortable in your hand, think that you will be as well.

 

[marine 97-03]

The sr9c will also take the Sr9, full size mags

 

[bjs1187]

I got a new mp9 for 425

 

[Hossfly68]

For $400 you can buy a whole set of Hi Point pistols!

I bought my .45 Witness for $300 and have seen a bunch for $400 and less. Act fast though. People are starting to realize how good they are and the prices will go up. I've been looking at 9mm's lately also. My heart is set on the CZ-2075, but I'm stuck in decision mode...

 

[RC20]

Sig SP2022 at Nelson Tactical for $379

It has all the traditional Sig quality at a reasonable price, accurate, reliable and handles very well.

 

[ugaarguy]

There are lots of mechanically sound police trade in Glocks & S&Ws with anywhere from lots of finish wear, to almost like new. I'm not even a Glock fan, but they're good guns, and the LE trade ins are a great value.

 

[cfrench]

i just bought a new kahr cw9 otd for 411.00. very concealable.