Handgun Advice

[JKaine]

I am researching to find a handgun that would be good for concealed carry. As far as caliber is concerned I am tossing between 40sw and 9mm, I've heard horror stories about the 9mm being worthless in self defense setting. Is there any truth behind this, is so what would be a good caliber that isn't overly expensive. As far has revolvers, what is a good round for concealed carry? Currently there are three handguns I am leaning towards.

EAA witness P full size
SIG Sauer P2022
Taurus Model 651

I need the gun to be fairly inexpensive, reliable, and durable. I would rather not spend over 500 but I can't spend over 600. Any help, suggestions, and advice would be great. Thanks.

 

[Deanimator]

1. Of your three choices, I'd go with the SIG. It's the one with best general reputation, both for the gun itself and the company.

2. 9x19mm isn't "worthless" for self-defense. It IS somewhat less effective than larger, more powerful calibers. If you use GOOD self-defense ammunition instead of FMJs, it is overwhelmingly likely to get the job done, as well as to stay in the person you're shooting. .40 S&W is more effective, and also harder to shoot accurately due to it's sharper recoil, especially in light polymer framed guns. I have CCW guns in both calibers.

3. Ammunition cost is irrelevant to me since I reload. I couldn't afford to practice regularly with factory defensive ammunition, even the 9x19mm Winchester white box 147gr. JHPs that I carry in my Glock 19.

 

[Hungry Seagull]

Gun, ammo, holster, permits, range fees, extra magazine, cleaning supplies, more ammo and any improvements to the gun like trace grips etc...

1000 dollars easy.

You cant go over X dollars now, but YOU WILL later.

 

[eitrheim31]

i would go with the sig in 40s&w if it was between those three. 40 is still cheap to shoot has more power and is still very controllable as far as recoil. for revolvers 38 special is probably the most common. i'd recommend looking at a glock 27, it's in your price range, and very reliable and durable.

 

[JKaine]

I don't remember what model Glock the NYPD was using, but I remember reading a couple years ago that they were having serious troubles with the guns jamming. I think it was attributed to a design flaw from back in the 90's (thought I might have been mislead), is that still an issue with Glock?

 

[10-Ring]

1st -- welcome to THR
Correct me if I'm mistaken - but - sounds like this would be a 1st gun and possibly not a lot of experience. If that is truely the case, I would recommend something simple. I would say a pre owned S&W or Ruger revolver in 357/38 -- learn w/ the 38's & carry the magnum rounds -- If it has gotta be an autoloader, I'd recommend a pre owned SIG, Beretta or Glock
Good luck

 

[Zerodefect]

The NY Glock issue has been solved.

The Sig is the best gun on your short list, but if your new to auto pistols, I would skip it. Not because its bad, but because its pricey. I would get something that is more of a sure bet. Something that works well for almost everyone. Then when you hav more experience to know what works best for you then if you still want the Sig, get it. It is a sweet gun though, if it works for you. It deosn't for me.

When your sure about the Sig then get it. Same can be said about the 1911, HK, FN, guns. My taste in pistols is completely different than when I started. I'm all 1911 and Glock now except for the real small stuff.

You can't go wrong with a Glock 19, 23, S&W M&P, Springy XD, Walther PPS.

 

[moooose102]

first, let me assure you that NO ONE will volunteer to be shot by a 9mm handgun. that being said, the 40 s&w does have more energy, so if coupled with the correct bullet, would offer more "knock down power". but, the 40 will also have more recoil. so if you can, get to a range, and shoot at least one of each. not that a 40 recoils badly, but it certainly makes more sense to shoot well, than shoot big. a well placed 22lr would be better than a grazing wound from a 50AE! i have a taurus 24/7 (45acp) and my wife has the same but in 40 s&w. they have been decent guns, but taurus's customer service is not very good. it took me three months and cost me $70.00 to get some "warranty" springs and magazines. so if you do have a problem, you will have a problem! i really can not coment on the other two on your list, as i really have no experience with them. if you can, buy something that is made in america, from a company that actually cares about its customer service department and customers.

 

[Big Daddy Grim]

9mm works just fine not my first choice for a long time, but then I got the S&W 9mmc M&P with my 12+1 round count and I can hit bullseyes at 25 yds I love it alot. I know if I ever have to use it all 37rds I carry will hit the target as per your question I like the sig they are great shooters.

 

[basicblur]

I assume you meant SP2022 on the SIG? I have one-just checked their site, and I see no P2022?

Anywho...nice gun, very reasonable price (dealers/SIG have special deals on 'em), but a bit big for concealed?

Don't forget the Springfield XD line-my main CCW is an XDSC40. If I was doing it over, I'd probably opt for the 9mm. The 40 is a nice, darn accurate little gun, but I might prefer less muzzle flip than the SC model has.
The XD also has a grip safety (love it or hate it), which helps prevent AD/ND when holstering (place thumb on back of slide when holstering to remove web of hand from the grip safety).

Another choice, but probably down a bit in the quality department, is the Taurus Millenium Pro line. Good price, lots of features, handles well-I have a PT145 2nd Generation (I usually weigh caliber vs. rounds held when selecting model calibers).

You may need to decide how you are going to carry-IWB vs OWB may influence your choices?

 

[jmhai]

How about a CZ 2075 Rami.. Can be had in 9mm or 40 and all metal or polymer frame..
I have a 9mm and am very happy with its performance..

 

[GRIZ22]

I don't remember what model Glock the NYPD was using, but I remember reading a couple years ago that they were having serious troubles with the guns jamming. I think it was attributed to a design flaw from back in the 90's (thought I might have been mislead), is that still an issue with Glock?

NYPD used 17, 19, and 26 Glocks. The agency I worked for used the NYPD facilities at Rodman's Neck and I was well acquainted with their instructors and ginsmiths.

I never heard of any jamming problem with there Glocks.

Back to original post.

For your budget I'd look at Glocks, Springfield Armory, and S&W semi-autos.

You mention a Taurus 651 which is a 5 shot 357. A Ruger SP101 should be in your price range and would be a good carry gun. Don't get overwhelmed with magazine capacity.

 

[sohcgt2]

Based on your price range you might want to consider Ruger P89, P90, P94. If your set on the three you listed, of them I would choose the Sig.

 

[hinton03]

I am a big beliver in the 45 ACP and have several thousand doallars tied up in two different examples, but I carry a Kahr K9 in 9mm and am perfectly comfortable with the choice.

Just remember CCW guns need to stay conceled so pick one that is thin and light enough to be comfortable.

 

[Sauer Grapes]

It won't matter what caliber you get if you can't put the round where it needs to be. Go to a range and try some guns. I have no problem carrying a 9 mm. I can hit what I aim at and control the gun. Since you mentioned revolvers, I also carry a Ruger SP101 .357 mag. 3" barrel Not to big but, nice to shoot even 357's out of it. {just not to many} lol
I love my sig P250. Sig, Beretta and Glock are all good choices. M&P 9mm or 40 are also great guns.

 

[searcher451]

Much of this ground has been tilled before; be sure to run a search and see what dozens of previous threads have offered on the same topic.

That being said, keep in mind that you and only you can select the right handgun for you. All the good advice in the world that you get here is just that: good advice. But it's not run-to-the-gun-store advice. Instead, it's run-to-the-gun-range advice. The only way to truly a pick a good carry gun, one that fits your eye and hand and body shape, etc., is to run some rounds through it ... as in lots of rounds. If you do that often enough, and with enough different styles and manufacturers, you'll eventually find your carry gun.

Don't be in a hurry. Take your time. You are making an important decision.

 

[Knightrider03m]

You will be fine with a 9mm. If you don't fill positive about a 9mm, go with a .45. Just remember that a .45 = huge cost for ammo.

 

[PT1911]

I'd check out a kel tec PF9 or Kahr CW9, .40, or .45

very concealable and all good shooters...

 

[David E]

NONE of the listed choices.

Consider Glock 17/19, Springfield XD/XD-m, Smith and Wesson M&P and the Sig 250.

All of these are 9mm, but they all have a .40 counterpart.

 

[starshooter231]

JKaine,

Try to find a range or friend that will let you shoot all 3 of your choices. As far as which one is the best only you can decide. I just picked up a Sig 226 for $500 and I love it. Do some research about all 3 weapons and both rounds you will make the right choice.

The only other advice I will give you is do not rush into it take your time it is a very important decision to make.


starshooter231

 

[Duke of Doubt]

I carry a Beretta 92FS. I load it with FMJ. I've never felt undergunned.

Heck, I used to carry a .380. I sometimes even carry a .32ACP Ortgies when I wear a tuxedo to a ball. Anything else might print or go flying during the tango.

 

[SigP229R]

First of let me say welcome. Now as to 9mm vs .40 I have both I have a Sig P229R in .40 and a Sig P6 9mm also a bereta 9mm and a S&W 5903tsw 9mm. I would not feel undergunned with any of them and I handle either one about equally well, with the exception of the P229 which has a bit more snap than the 9's but still very managable. I would not hesitate to carry and do carry each of them on occasion however my main carry is the Sig P229. Whatever you get let me add this one thing; do not hesitate to buy a good quality belt and holster.

Good luck on whatever you choose and always SAFETY first.

 

[chainsawmike]

Any Sig. Pick what fits.