What do I want??

[AT2]

I am looking for a new or C&R pistol for a range gun and maybe on the outside chance HD capabale. I've shot a Baretta M9 (liked it and shot a score good enough to get me a sharp shooter on a Naval practical weapons course) and I've also shot my father in law's .357 revolver (4" barrel can't remember the make) I've also had a lot of fun with that too. My hands are a bit small but the M9 and the Ruger P90 (noodled one but didn't fire it) fit fine. All I want is something in the 200-400 bone range that has cheap and readily available ammo (I'd like to stay away from .380 have a hard time finding that in my area). Right now I am leaning towards a CZ-82. Any inputs?

 

[Sunray]

"...the M9 and the Ruger P90 (noodled one but didn't fire it) fit fine..." Your hand isn't that small. Neither of those fit my hand. Wide, but short.
You want inexpensive, non-competitive, fun shooting? Pistol or revolver?
"...CZ-82..." Shoots 9x18mm Makarov. Not exactly easy to get everywhere. Mags run around $30 each too. Sights aren't great either.
A used, American brand, .357 revolver will do nicely for your budget. Nothing new in your price range. Lets you screw around with relatively inexpensive .38 Special ammo of any kind. You must clean the cylinders before using .357 ammo though. Or reload .357 brass to .38 velocities.

 

[Quiet]

If you want an inexpensive plinker, then get a .22LR pistol.
Ruger 22/45 or Browning Buck Mark.


The CZ82 is a great pistol.
However, even though 9x18mm ammo is cheaper than .380ACP, it's harder to find in retail establishments. So, you'll have to get your ammo at either gun shows or by ordering online/mail order.

If you want an inexpensive C&R plinker, then get a Romanian/Polish Tokarev or a CZ5.
7.62x25mm surplus ammo can still be gotten for less than $0.10 a round. However, finding ammo is the same as for the 9x18mm (guns shows or online).

 

[PAPACHUCK]

CZ82 is an excellent choice.

I've bought two now and they both are sweet shooters. They are very comfortable and accurate with a nice trigger.

Can't beat it for the price. My WallyWorld sometimes has 9x18 MAK on the shelf.

 

[meytind]

If the Ruger P90 fit, try the Ruger P95 in 9mm. You can easily find them in your price range new or used. If you want a .45, you can try the Ruger P345 but you will most likely have to go used to fit in your price range.

The CZ 82 is a fine gun but look at whether or not you can find 9x18 ammo in your area. If you can't find it around, and have no problem ordering online, then you should be fine.