Decisions, decisions...

[BigBlock]

I guess it's finally time for me to apply for a CC permit. None of my guns are particularly well suited to daily carry, so I guess I'll need another one of those too. I'm only looking to spend about $400, and that includes FFL transfer, because my gun will be coming from the internet. (local dealers SUCK!)

Anyway, being the indecisive person that I am, I'm having trouble choosing between an autoloader or a revolver. I've always loved revolvers, and I think everyone can agree a big shiny one just looks bad ass. I'm looking at a Taurus model 65 .357 in stainless...maybe a .44 magnum instead but I think that's out of my price range.

On the other hand, I've always liked 1911's, and I can get 9+ shots in .45ACP for about the same price as a revolver. I also am interested in the Taurus millennium pro, and it's about half the weight of the revolver. I guess either of those would be more practical than a revolver, yet, they just don't have the "cool" factor for me.

What do you guys think? I can't make up my mind...:banghead:

 

[chaim]

Hmm, $400 limit and you're considering the 1911? Not many 1911 options at that price (around here, even the Charles Daly or Rock Island Armory are over $450).

Anyway, I think a 4" K-frame sized revolver (like that Taurus 65) is about the biggest, and more importantly, the heaviest you can reasonably carry CCW. The 1911 is about the same. In both cases the shorter barrel (2.5" or 3" K-frame, 4" 1911) is a bit better, and if you can get it in an alloy even better (I love my S&W 1911SC, but it is well over $400).

If I wanted a sub-$400 carry gun and wanted a revolver, I'd probably go with your Taurus idea, but go with the 82 (.38spl, load it with good +Ps)- they run about $300 so you'd have $100 left for a good holster and ammo. You may be able to get the barrel cut down to 2.5" or 3" and still be under your $400 limit (definately, if you go with a used Taurus 82). Another option, is the 85 (J-frame sized) or 85UL (aluminium version). Not as fun to shoot, but much more concealable and a little less money.

As for considering the Taurus Milennium Pro, go for it. My PT 140 M. Pro has been a great gun. 100% reliability, the one problem was ammo related and I can't help but think that with certain brands what was nothing in my M. Pro might have been a kB, it is accurate, it has a great trigger for a DAO (current versions are SA/DA and have lighter triggers), and it is very well made. I have around 1000 rounds through it, mostly various JHPs. If I had to do it over again, I'd definately pick this gun again (though I wouldn't wait so long to finally give it a try).