Inexpensive C&R Suggestions (handguns)

[Anna's Dad]

I've had my C&R for some time now but have never used it. I think its about time. I would like to hear some suggestions on possible purchases.

I'm only interested in hand guns and not looking to spend a ton of money. I tend to prefer semi-auto, but I'm not opposed to a wheel gun.

Here are some that I was considering:
Colt 1903
Colt 1908
Beretta 1934
Walther P-38

I already have a CZ-52 and a few Makarovs (bought prior to C&R or not eligible) so I won't be interested in those.

I'd appreciate +1's (or -1's) on any on my list or other suggestions.

 

[Gord]

Nagant revolver? Cheap, but ammo (even .32 H&R Mag) will be pretty expensive.

The Zastava Mod. 70s are also fairly interesting for the quirky factor.

 

[rich636]

It'd be cool if you could track down a Webley, or maybe a Japanese Nambu.

 

[bfox]

Hi
I like the Star Super in 9mm Largo got it from Sarco .
I just Bought a 1903 Colt from Gunbroker
but I haven't recieved it yet .
Something about those Old Stars I bought two .

Bill

 

[Dr.Rob]

Astra 400/600
Walther P38K
Mauser HSC

 

[mrmeval]

I have a Webley Mark VI with the cylinder cut for .45acp. I paid under 500 for it. For me this is the finest shooting gun I've ever owned. It feels marvelous. I have shot 1911s and clones and this revolver beats them for feel and accuracy.

I just bought a CZ-52 and have yet to fire it, with S&H it came out to about $160 and I can't fault that price. It comes with two magazines, cleaning rod and holster. It will require some aftermarket parts as I want to shoot it but not break the firing pin, an unfortunate materials problem with them is the pin is cast metal of some sort. If it's as peppy as some articles suggest it might need the hogue slip on grips or some custom ones.

I picked up a CZ-70 a while back and it's a fine .32acp pistol, paid 150 for it which an over the table deal at a gun show and am happy with it. I think these are C&R, at the time I didn't have a C&R license.

My next purchase will probably be a Nagant revolver, can't beat an under 100 dollar revolver that I've read is a pretty well made one. Ammo is hard to get but I think there's some 32 caliber ammo that will work.

 

[22-rimfire]

My preference is the Smith 442/642. It's a 38spl revolver that is light and small enough to be carried in your pocket (slacks, coat, etc.). I am not big on CCW, and as a result, I tended to gravitate to a small well made revolver that I can keep in my pocket. I feel safer with a revolver. Works well with a small pocket holster so it doesn't move around and less likely to print. Uncle Mike's has a cheap one that works until you get used to it.

Some like the little 25auto pistols such as made by Colt since I see Colts as one of your choices. Not really enough power, but still not too bad.

Most seem to like the Kel-Tec autos (32, 380). Cheap and fairly reliable based on what people say who own them.

What you choose depends on how serious you are about CCW issues. I have been known to carry a Glock 23 in a holster which is about as big as I would go.

 

[Gord]

You do realize, of course, that he's asking about C&R handguns and not CCW guns.

 

[Manedwolf]

Webley Mk VI in .455.

The "manstopper" wadcutters for that look to have earned their name.

 

[Anna's Dad]

I've added some of your great suggestions to my list. Now the fun begins of trying to track down some deals. At least I have more to look for, now!

Thanks to everyone.

 

[eastwood44mag]

I am NOT a lawyer. I am NOT the ATF. I do NOT have my eligible list in front of me.

That being said, 1895 Nagants are fun to shoot (and dumbfounding to take apart, so it makes for good conversation). 3 CZ pistols are eligible--52, 50, and 70, IIRC (verify this for yourself). I'd like to get a Colt SAA, but can't afford it. P-38 is on my list for the 'eventually I'll get one'. Browse gun shows for old H&A if you want something for cheap. $50 can usually buy you most anything there.

 

[JBP]

I just picked up a Colt 1917 in 45 Colt. And you really can't beat the S&W M&P's and older Colts in .38 Spl.

 

[browningguy]

There are some scarcer pistols in the same price range:

H&R .32 ACP



Savage 1907



Savage 1917



Although not scarce a bunch of FN's that are cheap now, 1900, 1903, 1906, 1910, 1910/22

 

[Neo-Luddite]

Hey-- if you're still shopping--

The Colt .32 Pocket hammerless 1903 is one little honey, but they cost a bit.

If you need a media reference, it's the gun Bogey uses in Casablanca.

Issued by US military (also in .380) as a general officers pistol up until (serious) 1970 or so.

Light round, but VERY reliable (on par with 1911) and just a pleasure to shoot.

 

[peacemaker45]

The 1927 Sistema comes to mind. Argentine made 1911A1.

~~~Mat

 

[MCgunner]

My favorite would probably be a M1917 Smith and Wesson. I had one, but it was pretty sad shape. I'd really like another in better condition. I don't know if you can call it "inexpensive" anymore, though. There are .38 M&Ps out there for good prices from time to time.