Finally saved enough money!

[Cogster1]

Hey, I'm pretty new to the forums, and originally joined because I was looking for people's experiences with different handguns. I've read a lot of good informormation here so first off.. Thanks!

I've finally saved enough to purchase my first handgun. I just can't decide which one. I don't plan on stopping at just one, but want my first to be memorable. I'll try to make this brief.

I love the feel of the Walther P99, I've shot the H&K USP Compact, and I've read good reviews of the Springfield XD. Those are my 3 choices at present. I'm leaning towards the H&K at this point because I really felt comfortable shooting it.

Does anyone have experience in 2 or more of the above guns and is willing to throw in what they thought of each compared to each other. I hope that makes sense, and thanks in advance.

 

[SpookyPistolero]

I believe you've picked three very reliable and durable pistols to look at. They've excellent reputations and I don't think you'd go wrong with either.

It sounds like you're most comfortable with the HK, which is the most important thing. If you plan on carrying this piece, you might consider which would carry most easily as well.

 

[v35]

If you're a new shooter, especially with a carry weapon, the HK in DAO is about as idiot-proof as they come. To fire it you draw and pull the trigger. To put it away you release the trigger. I find the simplicity very reassuring in a carry weapon.

Don't mean to exclude the others; I'm just not familiar with them.

Oh one more thing - you didn't mention what purpose you have in mind. If it's primarily a carry weapon you should consider Glock as well. The G19 (9mm) and G23 (.40) will each be about 1/3 lb. lighter than their USPc counterparts.

Edit: Oops, I was comparing the compact Glocks to the full size USP. The Glocks are ligher but only by a few ounces.

 

[outofbattery]

Since it seems like you have a fondness for polymer framed pistols,I highly suggest you give the SIG Pro a try.I also have plastic Glock,Walther,HK and Berettas and IMO the SIG is the best of the bunch,for the least $.I've never shot let alone owned an XD but you really can't go wrong with any of them:whatever fits your hand and pleases your eyes the best is the right answer for you.They're all high quality and will serve you well-welcome and good shooting

 

[Jim PHL]

Cogster,
You mention three excellent choices and had a couple more suggested in the Glock or Sig. Do yourself a favor and do your homework, but not too much homework. You can drive yourself nuts reading too much "this one sucks here's why" or "this one rules, here's why". I'm not saying brand and quality do not matter, they absolutely do and with guns like everything else you usually get what you pay for. All I'm saying is don't over-analyze. Any of those five brands you mentioned would make a good first gun. Handle them all at least. Shoot as many as you can (preferably all of them) by renting or "go fishing" for someone at the range, maybe even another forum member, who has what you're interested in and meet for a shoot. (YOU buy the ammo) If you stick to one of the five you mention and choose from those the one YOU want the most and fits you the best, you'll be happy. (But you WON"T be satisfied. As soon as you buy it your gonna want to add one of the other ones anyway! )

 

[Ala Dan]

From these three, my only experience has been with the Springfield
XD in 9m/m tactical and more recently with my service model XD-45
ACP. In my way of thinking, I'm in agreement with Mr. Wiley Clapp
in saying that "its the best polymer pistol ou there". It shoots where
you point~!

 

[Navy87Guy]

I have both a Walther P99 and a P99C. I use the P99C as my carry gun. It's light and fits very comfortably in my Comp-Tac Undercover Pro IWB holster. The difference in carry comfort between the P99 and the P99C was really surprising. It shoots very well (although not as well as the full size P99).

I agree with the recommendation to go shoot as many of them as you can. As you can see, I own a lot of different pistols and every one of them shoots differently. There are pluses and minuses to each of them and the only way you'll be able to decide which gun suits you best is to try them. If you can't find a range that rents them, then look online for other shooters in your area who are willing to arrange a shoot with you. I think most shooters would be more than happy to let you try out a particular model.

Hope this helps,

Jim

 

[Edmond]

If you're considering the USP compact, you really owe it to yourself to also consider the P2000. The P2K is a more refined USP. The trigger is super smooth on the P2K and the 4 backstraps will ensure that you get the grip you want. The P2K's do cost a little bit more but they are worth it, IMO.

The XD is an excellent weapon. At first, I thought they were a wannabe Glock. But after shooting one, I don't think that way anymore. I think they are better than Glocks.

Can't say anything about the Walther as I've never shot one before.

 

[Cogster1]

Done Deal

I bought the HK USP Compact 40 today. Well, I gave the nice man at the counter my money anyway. I have to go later today and get my purchase permit. Then back to the gun shop tomorrow to pick it up. I will post pics and my first ever range report as soon as I can. Thanks for all the advice!

 

[v35]

Good Choice. (nt)