First Centerfire Pistol

[Lord Bodak]

I'm thinking about buying my first centerfire. Not going to buy right away, but probably in the next two months.

I love my Ruger 22/45 so I am definitely tempted by the P-series. I like the P944 in .40S&W but it is probably too big to be a comfortable carry pistol. I do not have my CCW yet but I will also be getting that in the next few months. I'm not completely set on .40S&W, and the P97 in .45ACP is also an option from Ruger.

I fired an H&K USP Compact .40S&W when I first started shooting (as a rental before I bought my .22) and I liked the ergonomics and the size; how well does a USP Compact work as a carry piece? That would also leave .45ACP as an option.

Since it's my first centerfire, is an H&K more money than I should be spending? The P-series pistols are quite a bit more affordable but if I want to carry concealed I will need something smaller anyway.

Enough rambling... suggestions welcome

 

[goon]

For carry I would recommend something small. The smaller and lighter the better IMO. I have been carrying my P-225 and I am currently in search of something smaller that still has a reasonable amount of power.
If you are looking at price, try the CZ pistols. I would say that if you like the HK and you can afford it, get it. You won't be satisfied if you don't get what you want. Trust me on this one.

 

[sundance43.5]

Can't go wrong with the USP, but the Ruger is probably a little big to conceal, although I'm sure some can pull it off.

Rugers are ugly as sin, but reliable and inexpensive.

That being said, I would recommend the Springfield XD. Stone-cold reliable, accurate, decent looking, and all at a great price.

Chris

 

[azrael]

Springy XD-9 compact<~~~decent price and 100% reliable

BUG...P3at or P-32<~~~great price good guns