Looking for First 'Real' Handgun (sub 750$)?

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scribble0073300

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Hello interwebs
Like the title says, I'm looking for my first real pistol. And just can't decide what I want to get.
What I'm pretty sure I don't want is a Glock. Not that I'm anti Glock. But close enough. Everyone I've held (never fired) at gunshows just weren't "right" ya know? Didn't like how they felt or fit. Full size, compact, I just didn't like holding any of them.
My budget <$750.
Location = Cali, but my grandpa is in AZ so Off roster is prob an option that way.
Primary Purpose = Toy. I'm a younger video game age kid, and If I had the $$$, I would buy a Deagle. Why? Because Deagle! Impracticality shrmackacality.
Caliber=.40 ( or 9mm and .40 cal If I can have both with one gun)
No CCW desire.
It will probably double as HD, But what handgun can't?
Also i like accessories and aftermarket support. Muzzle brakes, Red dot sights. Cool looks. (race gun anyone?) little cool things to add once every few paychecks..

I have reloading setup that I actually haven't really used, but its an option when I really get going.

My experience.
I own a S&W 22a bull. Its lots-o-fun. But no more .22 so dust it collects.
My dad owned a Llama 1911 .45acp. This poor thing never saw range time till I got a hold of it. Then something wore out, and it started giving me 7 round burst. :eek::neener::evil::what:
Was more fun, but got rid of it. AW ban and all. Couldn't find compatible parts to fix it.
Long guns I own or have fires
own 10/22
savage 320
marlin xs7vh .308
m&p ar15
Savage .223 bolt something or other. 11 series? maybe

Friend of mine who was a operator for the last 20 years likes, owns and recommends a Sig p226. I'm Inclined to trust his opinion as I don't think there's a weapon he HASN'T fired/trained with. If its good enough for the Teams, its good enough for me. But I feel like its a tad outta budget. (If I find one in budget after I have saved my pennies, That's what I'll get)

So options I was looking at are the Sig p2022 and P320. I thought I should get other opinions with people who know what options I have. This is my first handgun I'm shopping for so I would like to know what my options are. Something I may have missed or am simply unaware of. Walter? HK? other brand?
I know most would say, "go to a range and try some some out"
But I don't actually go to ranges. I don't get good vibes at the local ones. I shoot on my private property..
There is "the Range pistol club" in fresno, About 45 miles from me. That rents guns. But they will have a small selection of roster guns. To which you have to use their heinously over priced ammo with.

So hopefully I have provided enough info that the better traveled can shoot ideas at me, so I can research prospected choice for the next X months and pick what I think would fit best.

Thanks
 
If you don't care about CCW maybe an HK USP. It's a soft shooting gun for a .40 cal and is very accurate and reliable. Lots of options for different triggers, too. If you want to pour cash into it to trick it out there are lots of options (Match Trigger, Match/LEM Hybrid, Gray Guns Carry Reset Perfection package, Match counter weight, fancy sights, etc). Along those same lines an HK P30 is just at the $750 mark depending on where you're looking. Awesome great, great shooter. The USP has a slightly better trigger but there's no adjustability to the grips; either it fits you or it don't. If your hands are smaller a USPc would be a better option. The P30 series is more modern and the grip has more adjustment. It has 3 panels each for the L, R and Backstrap (for a total of 9 panels). This gives you 27 possible grips to play with. Nearly everyone should be able to get a perfect fit.

If you are willing to go with a 9mm it would be hard to beat a VP9. It's everything a Glock wants to be when it grows up.:D Fantastic shooter, highly adjustable grips (same system as the P30). The only "down side" is there's nothing much you can fiddle with beyond sights or hanging crap off the pic rail.;)
 
You did say '"real" handgun, right? :D So I'm gonna suggest you dig around (maybe Gunbroker,etc.) and find a nice S&W .357, like a model 28, or pre-lock 686.
Another option (prolly cheaper and less trouble,too) would be to look at a Ruger GP100.
Also, being in Califiornia, a non- mag-fed,semi automatic may prove to be an advantage, down the road. (in fact, i'd say it was inevitable.)

One other thing, your referral to an "off-roster" gun from (neighboring state) Arizona has questionably legal conotations, you should look further into that before proceeding.
 
There is a plethora of choices for a pistol under $750.
I dunno about race guns and muzzle brakes (really?) and buying little trinkets after each paycheck - that sounds like you want an AR pistol.

I've seen the Sig P226 come around as a CPO (certified pre-owned) for $699 or less if you shop around. There's actually one on gunbroker for less than that now. http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=445791429
Sig P229 would be a good choice. Here's one with some nice Hogue rosewood grips AND night sites for under $600 http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=446601073
Otherwise, an H&K USP would be a good choice as well.
Or, you can get two SigPro 2022's, one in .40 and one in 9mm for that budget.

If it were me, I'd start with the SigPro and use the cash I saved on ammo and maybe some night sites. But that P229 I linked to would be mighty tempting too.
 
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Just because your budget is $750 doesn't mean you need to get as close to it as possible. Lol. That amount will get you most of the handguns out there. You mentioned 9 and 40 in one system and that you don't want Glock, that leaves Springfield XD(m) and S&W M&P, both good pistols. There may be more brands that have conversion barrel options, but any others escape me right now. You said Deagle, but you can get a baby Deagle in 40. There's also FNH, Ruger, CZ, HK, Sig and probably some others I'm forgetting. With a budget of $750 you have a lot more options and narrowing it down may be the hardest thing to do.

ETA: Beretta and Walther, dang it I forgot about them.
 
Springfield XDm series pistols
Beretta PX4, or 92/96 series guns
HK VP9, or USP models
FNX or FNS models
S&W M&P guns
Ruger SR guns
Some Sig guns like the P320 and 2022
CZ

There's a lot of options man. I suggest you look at those manufacturers. Also simply searching .40 S&W on gunbroker.com will yield a lot of options. It may help you see what is available.
 
Thanks for the replies guys.
Ill start digging into hk usp. Sounds like a solid option.
And I did post in the auto loader form so revolvers are out :p.

To get an off roster gun. I would be doing an intrafamily transfer. My grandpa would buy it. All legally, then send it to a ca ffl with a note saying this is A Gift for grandson ect ect. Dros and 10 days later it's mine.
Im not sure how internet savvy he is. Actually, I do. I would have to figure out how to get a ffl near him to accept the transfer from an online purchase and all that. So he would just go in a give a thumb print..... these fees are gonna take half my budget.
 
And I did post in the auto loader form so revolvers are out
Click to expand...

I certainly respect that because I hate it when I post saying "I'm thinking about these guns." and someone tells me I should be considering something I don't want.

But, in the future you may want to consider a revolver or 4. Revolvers achieve power levels that are impractical in semiauto guns, they are durable and simple to run, and make darn fine heirlooms.

But for now, definitely get what interests you, and don't let anyone tell you what you should be interested in. You like what you like, and that's ok. It just means you will practice more with that gun. Post a pic when you decide.

You know, I threw a lot out there, but I have to say, of the polymer gun types out there, HK guns are IMO the finest looking ones available with the nicest fit and finish available. The one I own is utterly reliable and accurate as hell. One thing to note though, they use polygonal rifling, and you said you have a reloading setup.

Lead bullets should not be fired through any gun with polygonal rifling. Just a heads up
 
Thats the thing
So many options. Lol
I did shoot a a px4 and 92fs. Both guns I THOUGHT I liked and wanted. But after words, not so much. Mushy triggers maybe?
Im used to rifles so nice clean triggers. Without a lot of mush/ travel (in SA) are desired I think. I understand DA more is happening, so long heavy pull is unavoidable.
I posted 750 budget cause I think I could swing that. Obviously once I decide on something I'll hunt for the cheapest way to get it.
Im gonna borrow my buddies p226. So I'll have a recent understanding of what quality feels like. So I have more of a base line for what I feel I require in a HG.

Honestly though, the more I shop, the more I want the Deagle.
.44mag is attainable. Ammo wise I think. Just pushes my wait that much longer to save for it.
 
'Real' Hangun as in Centerfire vs .22? A .22 is a real handgun.

Revolver or Semi-AUto? you're leaning semi-auto with the Sig P226
and that would be pre-owned for your price/budget.

Don't know what is on the Calif. Approved List.

STI International Spartan V = 5 Bbl. or the IV 4.25 Bbl.
are 1911 clones built in Texas and come in 9x19 which
will be cheaper than .40 S&W or .357 Mag
 
Full size baby eagle

CZ SP01

Witness Elite Match





Talk to an FFL about ordering on a SSE for you.
 
BlindJustice said:
'Real' Hangun as in Centerfire vs .22? A .22 is a real handgun.

Revolver or Semi-AUto? you're leaning semi-auto with the Sig P226
and that would be pre-owned for your price/budget.

Don't know what is on the Calif. Approved List.

STI International Spartan V = 5 Bbl. or the IV 4.25 Bbl.
are 1911 clones built in Texas and come in 9x19 which
will be cheaper than .40 S&W or .357 Mag
Click to expand...

Well I meant more powerful "real".
A 22 is an air rifle that doesn't require pumping :p

I do want 9mm. But its only about 2 cents/ rd more for .40cal
And I hear lots of evidence saying its the most balanced round. So that's why I choose it.
That and the Team commander told me to. Lol

EezyBeezy said:
You can acquire off roster handguns in CA through Single Short Exemption(SSE) which ends December 31, 2014 @ 11:59p. So you are limited on time on finding THE REAL HANDGUN you want now. You just have to find lgs that does SSE. Check out the following thread over at Calguns.

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=383692
Click to expand...
I'm not thinking I'll be buying one before then. Most likely happy b day to me in March.
I do lots of research before buying. Watching reviews and comparison ect ect. So that's why I'm asking now. I simply don't know what I should be looking into.
So I appreciate all the recommendations.
 
Have you ever handled a Desert Eagle? The grip is large. I wear extra large gloves, and it feels awkward in my hands, not to mention heavy. The 44 mag round is not cheap to shoot either. If you do go that way, you better get that reloading press up and running fast or she'll start collecting dust.

Just saying.

I think a Sig 226 would be a great choice in 9mm.

I owned a Cougar in .40 cal and while I was able to shoot the gun accurately, I found the muzzle flip annoying, and it lead to slower follow up shots. It isn't painful as some folks say, but it is snappy. I've heard the Baby Desert Eagles are excellent platforms for the 40 cal cartridge if that's what you really want. The weight of the all steel frame helps mitigate the recoil impulse.

Most of the Sig 226's use an alloy frame unless you get into the X-5 and X-6 guns ($1300-$2600) and will be lighter. If it were me, I'd reserve the 226 for a 9mm.

Again, just saying, and trying to give you a few things to think about.
 
Thought I'd throw this out there too: not sure if it's a 'real' enough gun for you, but the Sig P239 can shoot .40S&W, .357Sig and 9mm with just barrel changes.
 
I have a 9x19 CZ5B base moadel which is in the $ 540 range

I have one, it's 14+1 capacity, 4.6" Bbl. DA/SA
uber reliable and very accurate. It would leave
room for a gun Belt & OWB holster for a walkabout
your acreage. nice curved backstrap / good ergos
on the grip. It's black poly coating is holding up
well.

There's a slew of models & Angus at the
CZ Custom shop can do trigger work, and they have
good support Since it's been around for almost 40
years Also, the CZ 75 has been around since
1975, the "B' model - 1992 they added a Firing Pin Block
in ase of a dropped on the m uzzle argh

It's also a very copied ( mark of a good design ) pistol with
Hungarian made Jericho 941, Used by Israiles and the TZ 75
TAN fAGLIO?? iItalian and the Turkish AR-24 and others.

No offense to Sig guys, but Ii have shot a few and I prefer
the CZ DA/SA trigger .

FYI - I have a couple of 1911s in .45 ACP and nothing beats
a 1911 trigger in Semi-Autos.
 
If your budget is up to $750 and you want a 9mm or 40S&W, there are a LOT of choices out there.

Ruger
CZ
Smith and Wesson
Sig Sauer
Beretta
Springfield
FN
KelTec
H&K (might be pushing the $750 limit)
Walther

I left out brands like Jiminez, Lorcent, Jennings, and Hi Point.

Me personally the Ruger SR9, the Beretta 92FS or PX4 Storm, the Walter PPX are excellent values.

The H&K USP9 and Sig Sauer P226 are pricier options.

My recommendation is to go to a gun store and handle a few to see which one you like the feel of the best.
 
If you keep the gun to < $ 600 you'll have
money for accessories - Gun Belt, OWB Holster
and some good spare magazines. and of course
a startter handgun cleaning kit.

I carried open as a teen in the mid/late '60s I had a
OWB holster for a S&W Model 18 K-22 6 shot. This
was legal in Wash. State - It was on our 320 acre
farm. It dispatched many a cottontail and the
ocaissional rattlesnake, but only made them coyotes
run faster. They were convinced it was real.

Randall
 
I own a P226, Glocks, Springfield XDM's, a 1911 and have heard great things about CZ's. It's on my list. They are all good choices, as are the other guns mentioned in other posts. Take your time and go with the one that feels most natural to you. If it's awkward or uncomfortable the odds decrease that you'll shoot it well or often.

One of the things to consider when choosing between striker fired, SA or DA/SA is that the trigger pull with striker fired or SA guns is the same every time. My P226 is DA/SA, so the first trigger pull is different than subsequent pulls. It's not a bad thing, and the gun has been incredibly reliable, but you will need to learn 2 trigger pulls, especially in a SD scenario.
 
Based on my own preferences:
MRI Baby Eagle full size in steel, 9mm - or a used Jericho (same thing)
RIA Tactical FS 1911, .45 ACP (also available in 9mm)
Browning HP, 9mm (or clone.)
Ruger P95 9mm. (Better than anything they currently sell IMHO)
Beretta 92 9mm
 
there are a few good options for the price range, if you pick 2 of them you will be within your budget :)

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/...id/52707/Kahr+Arms+CW4543+CW45+6+1+45ACP+3.6"
52707_1.jpg

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/products_id/47920
47920.jpg

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/products_id/57357/Ruger+3309+SR9+10+1+9mm+4.14"
57357_1.jpg

make sure you call them and ask about the cali version.


ETA:

now, if i had that money to buy only 1 it would be this
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/...oducts_id/84941/FN+66876+FNX40+40S+10RD+BLKSS
or the .45 version here
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/...cts_id/78898/FNH+66964+FNX-45+15+1+45ACP+4.5"
78891_2.jpg
78898_1.jpg

and use the rest of the money on ammo....
 
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ZOMG
So many options! Think I bit off more then i can chew. I got a lot to look into.
Think I will be making a trip to that gun renting range after all.
That FN looks sexy tho.
Putting that on the list for sure
 
Take it slowwwww.....

Head to the gun store. Hold them all. You will find the brands and models that feel good... if its comfy, research it more. Bring a pad and pen and write down all the "Yes, look more" and "No, don't look anymore".

After that, find out if you want striker or hammer fired. There are Pros and Cons to both. If you can't decide, dry fire them in the store and see which ones have nice triggers in your mind. Make sure if its DA/SA, that you try both the double and single action riggers.

Once you limit your list down, it will be easier to research only a few than ALL the guns out there. Remember, get what you want, not what someone else tells you. Even all the professionals and best shooters in the world do not agree on one single pistol.

On the data you posted, I would suggest looking a these ones:
-Revolver: Ruger or Smith because you live in California and revolvers are great to learn to shoot on. But if you want a range toy, it is hard to waste ammo as fast as an auto
-SIG Sauer: you already listed the 2022 and P320. Both are great guns, but the 2022 is normally cheaper and I like that it is hammer fired. I think the P320 will come down to P250 prices eventually also.
-Baby Eagle: Has some of that Deagle charm but is actually a good gun. Based on the CZ, made in Israel, it is one heck of a combat platform.

But like I said, you gotta shop and limit it down because you will get a 1,000 answers on here because there are so many good options available. And remember, when in doubt: buy a Ruger :)
 
You don't have to spend nearly that much. Bud's has a Zastava (a Sig clone) for a little over $300. The full-sized Taurus Beretta clones were less than $500 last time I checked. The EAA Witness and other CZ75 family members are a pretty good deal.

I have had my High Power clone and Beretta clone for 25+ years and had zero problems (other than wearing out an extractor and replacing it for under ten dollars). If you set your limit closer to $500 you would have more money left for ammo and supplies.

When I decide that I want a certain firearm I haunt GB and throw out last-minute lowball bids. It might take a couple of months, but I have always gotten the gun I wanted for the price I wanted. For me it is part of the fun. I have gotten good deals and quick service from Bud's and CTD, if you don't prefer the auction route.
 
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Real Gun

Springfield XD
H&K finding one in you range
Any of the CZ 75B, SP-01 (you'll really love the SP-01 and well within your budget)
I looked at a P226 long and hard this weekend, but I think it's over priced, but great gun)
 
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