Folks, I live in the wonderful land of Maryland. Where we are only allowed to:
1) Buy handguns that are on the "authorized" MD State Police list
2) Buy new handguns that contain a cartridge case for the new MD cartridge case law. Or pay to have a non-cartridge case handgun shoot, and the have the collected cartridge sent to the MD state police.
3) In 2003... all new handguns sold in MD must have a "built-in" locking system.
I belive that by 2003 there will be a very limited number and types of handguns available for MD residents to buy new.
SOOOOOO, I decided it was time to start working on putting together a nice collection of handguns before the year 2003 for myself and the family. I just received my MD collector designation, which allows me to buy as many handguns and MD paper work firearms without having to wait 30 days between purchases (another MD regulation).
I would like your opinions as to what I should get to have well rounded handgun collection. Note that handguns would be for myself, wife, 12 year old boy, and a future shooter (a 18 month old girl). I would like a collection that can be used for: training (kids), plinking/target shooting, self/home defense, and historical significance.
Please prioritize your recommendations, since money is still a limiting factor.
Below is a list I have put together (no order of priority, and no political correctness considered).
Single Action Revolvers:
Ruger Stainless Single Six Convertible (5 1/2 or 6 1/2 inch barrel). I like the idea of being able to shoot 22 short, 22 long, 22 long rifle, and 22 mag from one gun. I think this would be great to train my kids with, and for general plinking. A fun gun for the family.
Ruger Blackhawk Convertible in 38 spec, 357 mag, and 9mm with a 6 1/2" barrel. Again a gun that shoots more than one type of caliber, I especially like the capability to shoot 9mm ammo. Since this would give one a way to shoot 9mm ammo a pistol may not like. It also has a "historical" link (old west look). I have also considered the Blackhawk 45 long Colt/45 ACP Convertible, for the same reasons.
Double Action Revolvers:
I think a good double action 357 mag revolver is a must, it offers highpower self/home defense in a simple to use package. I been looking at 6" barreled S&W 686 or Colt Python in 357 mag.
Pistols:
Another must I believe is a 22cal Pistol, again for training and plinking/target shooting. I have been looking at Ruger MK-II Gov't Slab side or a Beretta 87 target. Any opinions of the Beretta?
Compact/Meduim Frame: 9mm, 40cal, or 45? This would be for the wife (mainly) and I to use for general shooting and self/home defense. There are alot of choices in this category. We both do not like Glock's, and HK's do not feel comfortable in my hand. Been looking at Sig P229, Kimber CDP Pro/Compact line, any other recommendations?
Large Frame:
I already have a Beretta Elite in 9mm, and am looking for another gun mainly for me to shoot. Been looking at a Sig P226 in 40, a Sig 220 in 45, and 1911 style. Base on the responses to my prior post, the Sig P226 in 40 is out... now considering the Sig P226 in 9mm or P220 in 45cal.
I believe the 1911 Style is must have... historical, large caliber, has many options/styles. I have been looking at Kimbers.
So what are your opinions/recommendations?
Thanks,
Landwarrior...