What To Get For A Cheap First Handgun

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Posted: 10/11/2004 5:46:21 PM EDT

I'm looking for a cheap, but accurate, handgun to work on tactical shooting. I don't want to spend big bucks on a gun, but I do want something that can hit the broad side of a barn. I was wondering about getting a used gun that was in good condition so as to bring down the price. Any suggestions of a good 9mm or .45 to get?

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:47:52 PM EDT

[#1]

bang for the buch get a Taurus 9mm. If its your first handgun you might try a .38 revolver, simpler to use. I got a taurus 9mm when I was your age and had it up until about a year ago (I'm 26 now)

If you are looking for something nicer you could get a sig factory buyback from the cops.

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:47:57 PM EDT

[#2]

I would suggest a CZ in 9mm or 40S&W. They are a good value for the features.

MT

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:49:13 PM EDT

[#3]

Quoted:
I would suggest a CZ in 9mm or 40S&W. They are a good value for the features.

MT

Good shooter and you can get a new one for about the price of a used glock.

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:50:00 PM EDT

[#4]

With out a doubt, get a Ruger P95. It's a polymer 9mm, easy to use, and will never ever jam with any ammo you can find or dig out of the ground. A used one will cost around $225-250, and will be a great shooter. Plus, the capacity is 10/15/17/20/30 rounds. Many options, and awesome fun.

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:50:17 PM EDT

[#5]

If you shop wisely, you can get a nice used 1911 with all the extras (the only one you REALLY need are good sights and trigger) for way less than $500.

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:52:03 PM EDT

[#6]

How much did you want to spend? I was giving suggestions in the $250-450 range and then someone gives a much higher figure.

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:52:21 PM EDT

[#7]

Quoted:
bang for the buch get a Taurus 9mm. If its your first handgun you might try a .38 revolver, simpler to use. I got a taurus 9mm when I was your age and had it up until about a year ago (I'm 26 now)

If you are looking for something nicer you could get a sig factory buyback from the cops.

Maybe I mislead you in my original post. I have shot and cleaned guns for about 3 years, but those guns were my uncle's: 9mm Glocks, .357, .45s, etc. This is just the first gun my parents will actually own and I will be allowed to shoot.

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:52:53 PM EDT

[#8]

$250-450... Same thing you were thinking

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:55:01 PM EDT

[#9]

I really do like the Taurus 9mm (they make the same model in .40) for a first gun. Mine cost $300 new. Its the one that looks like the Berretta. Hell you can get a used Berretta around here for like $350 (pretty banged up) but since you're not CCW with it right now its ok

With out a doubt, get a Ruger P95. It's a polymer 9mm, easy to use, and will never ever jam with any ammo you can find or dig out of the ground. A used one will cost around $225-250, and will be a great shooter. Plus, the capacity is 10/15/17/20/30 rounds. Many options, and awesome fun.

Ruger are good solid handguns though and about the same size (full size) only thing is I don't like some of the stories I've been hearing about Ruger's politics

Posted: 10/11/2004 5:55:42 PM EDT

[#10]

You should be able to find a good used S&W 357 from one of the many police trade ins, for ~$250

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:10:08 PM EDT

[#11]

250-300 sounds GREAT! I was originally going to get a Ruger 10/22 and just keep using my Uncle's Camp 9 (sp?) rifle and hand guns, but I want to become proficient in using a hand gun for defense. Rifles, and I believe revolvers, just aren't pragmatic enough to put up sustained contact with an enemy. Now, I know that there are some pro's in here that will disagree with the revolver comment, but I don't feel too easy about 6 rounds saving my life, besides... it's more fun to put a lot of bullets down range.

But , yea, a $300 gun sounds great... and my Uncle has an bullet maker and brass recycler. Thanks for all the info. Is the Taurus accurate?

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:12:20 PM EDT

[#12]

Taurus is as accurate as any combat handgun. Expect 2" groups at 25yds from a bench. Nice thing is the one that looks like the Berretta has lots of accessories due to the fact that it is an improvement on the berretta design.

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:13:25 PM EDT

[#13]

Thank you...

www.impactguns.com/store/taurus_pt111_millienium.html

Is this the gun?

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:22:25 PM EDT

[#14]

That one's good for concealment but this is the one I was talking about.

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:25:32 PM EDT

[#15]

Glock 17

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:28:32 PM EDT

[#16]

Quoted:
That one's good for concealment but this is the one I was talking about. nas1.gbhinc.com/pixhost/2004-01-18/deanspawn_1074636059_mvc-724s.jpg

Do you know the model number.

Problem is I'm 16 and not near old enough to carry a gun by myself, so the concealment factor isn't important to me.

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:38:15 PM EDT

[#17]

I picked up a cheap Colt Trooper MK111 for 300 at the OKC gun show!! That was probably a little high,but damn what a solid revolver!! Smiths are just as well made and maybe a little cheaper!

Bob

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:45:51 PM EDT

[#18]

Springfield Armory XD for $399. Great little pistol.

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:48:10 PM EDT

[#19]

The agree with the Taurus PT92. I have two of them and they are tough, 100% reliable, and more accurate than many expensive pistols. They are easy to find and usually around $300 used. Another big plus is the Taurus lifetime warranty. They will replace or repair anything, forever, no question.

Another option would be a police trade in GLOCK 17. If you are lucky enough to find one around $350, snatch it up.

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:55:29 PM EDT

[#20]

FIRESTAR 40 S&W IN SARVEL FINISH $200- $250 THEY COST $350- $400 AT ONE TIME BUT THEY ARE A BARGIN NOW THEY SHOT FLAWLESS WITH ANY AMMO

Posted: 10/11/2004 6:57:31 PM EDT

[#21]

rugers are cheap

Posted: 10/11/2004 7:04:50 PM EDT

[#22]

Quoted:
You should be able to find a good used S&W 357 from one of the many police trade ins, for ~$250

That's my thought. Accurate gun, with a great self defense round in 357 or 38 for plinking.

Posted: 10/11/2004 7:14:49 PM EDT

[#23]

Quoted:
Glock 17

Yep, you can find a used 19 or 17 for right in your range. New un-banned magazines that hold 15-17 rounds are readily available for $20/ea.

I'd also look very hard at the CZ75. One of the most underrated handguns on the market today, and available brand new for $400 all day long.
gunbroker.com/auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=24148456

Posted: 10/11/2004 7:25:43 PM EDT

[#24]

CZ75. One of the best, if not THE best 9mm handgun, esp for the money.

Posted: 10/11/2004 7:32:18 PM EDT

[#25]

Sorry, I found a blank gun... the text supposed to go in this reply is meaningless

Posted: 10/11/2004 7:57:23 PM EDT

[#26]

the one I showed is a Taurus PT 92 (or 99 for adj. sights) and a big +1 on the CZ75 if you have the money.

Posted: 10/11/2004 9:44:54 PM EDT

[#27]

Hello,

1st choice would be a 22 like a ruger 22/45. Lots of practice time w/ cheap ammo.

Seems like you want a larger cal then .22 so,

Next would be a S&W .357 w/ 6, or 4 inch bbl., police trade ins. Learn the basics w/ .38 spec, and use .357 for defense.

last try to find a Sig/Glock/Beretta LEO trade in.

In the current CDNN cat. they list Beretta 92D (DAO) for $289 /w free hicap. Your choice of VG W/ Trij NS or Excellent w/ standard sites.

Some folks don't like DAO autos but the 92D has a nice clean (long) 7lb pull. I have one and have no complaints.

You will need to have it shipped to a dealer and pay a transfer fee, but the total should be around $330.

FB

Posted: 10/11/2004 10:19:18 PM EDT

[#28]

Glock 17 or 19

Posted: 10/11/2004 10:36:26 PM EDT

[#29]

Quoted:
Hello,

1st choice would be a 22 like a ruger 22/45. Lots of practice time w/ cheap ammo.

Seems like you want a larger cal then .22 so,

Next would be a S&W .357 w/ 6, or 4 inch bbl., police trade ins. Learn the basics w/ .38 spec, and use .357 for defense.

last try to find a Sig/Glock/Beretta LEO trade in.

In the current CDNN cat. they list Beretta 92D (DAO) for $289 /w free hicap. Your choice of VG W/ Trij NS or Excellent w/ standard sites.

Some folks don't like DAO autos but the 92D has a nice clean (long) 7lb pull. I have one and have no complaints.

You will need to have it shipped to a dealer and pay a transfer fee, but the total should be around $330.

FB

He's right. Go over to cdnninvestments.com and download their catalog. They have a bunch of trade-ins over there, Sigs, Glocks, Rugers, etc. Some of the guys here have picked up Sigs there for 400, and they look and shoot great.

I would say go Ruger for the 200 to 300 range, but if you can stretch it up a smidge, I'd go 400 for a Sig. Sigs are worth the extra 100 bucks.

Hell, I'm even thinking of picking one up.

Posted: 10/11/2004 10:57:46 PM EDT

[#30]

Quoted:
I'm looking for a cheap, but accurate, handgun to work on tactical shooting. I don't want to spend big bucks on a gun, but I do want something that can hit the broad side of a barn. I was wondering about getting a used gun that was in good condition so as to bring down the price. Any suggestions of a good 9mm or .45 to get?

Taurus PT-92 (Beretta 92/M-9 clone)

Rock Island Armory 1911 (see www.cdnninvestments.com -> $279 each)

Posted: 10/11/2004 11:14:30 PM EDT

[#31]

Taurus PT-92 (Beretta 92/M-9 clone)

Rock Island Armory 1911 (see www.cdnninvestments.com -> $279 each)

That sounds damn good to me!I think the way it will go down though is that I will have to wait until Christmas and go halves with my parents.

Posted: 10/12/2004 3:56:20 PM EDT

[#32]

For a good inexpensive gun go with a Ruger P89. They're accurate and reliable. 15 round mags now avaliable!!!!!

I'm 15. glad to hear I'm not the only young guy on hear.

Posted: 10/12/2004 6:59:48 PM EDT

[#33]

Get a sig p226 9mm from cdnn for $369.99, you will never have a finer 9mm DA/SA pistol.

Posted: 10/13/2004 3:41:25 PM EDT

[#34]

+1

Posted: 10/13/2004 3:57:54 PM EDT

[#35]

Have you considered an EAA Witness?

Posted: 10/13/2004 4:15:19 PM EDT

[#36]

Get the one you like the best for what you can afford.

Posted: 10/13/2004 4:30:23 PM EDT

[#37]

Quoted:
Get the one you like the best for what you can afford.

That is a really good tip. See if you can shoot relative's, friends, and joe nobody's, and rental's at the range. Pick the one you like best and then see if you can afford it. If not look into your second, third etc.

Posted: 10/15/2004 11:33:12 AM EDT

[#38]

Quoted:
With out a doubt, get a Ruger P95. It's a polymer 9mm, easy to use, and will never ever jam with any ammo you can find or dig out of the ground. A used one will cost around $225-250, and will be a great shooter. Plus, the capacity is 10/15/17/20/30 rounds. Many options, and awesome fun.

+1

Posted: 10/15/2004 11:38:24 AM EDT

[#39]

P.S. Just say NO to revolvers

It's an obselete design, with a terrible trigger pull and generally crappy sights... Much easier to learn 'bad habits' with a revolver trigger than a good auto in single-action mode....

They're also a PITA to reload...

Posted: 10/15/2004 12:20:28 PM EDT

[#40]

Quoted:
P.S. Just say NO to revolvers

It's an obselete design, with a terrible trigger pull and generally crappy sights... Much easier to learn 'bad habits' with a revolver trigger than a good auto in single-action mode....

They're also a PITA to reload...

............

Posted: 10/15/2004 1:02:37 PM EDT

[#41]

Quoted:
P.S. Just say NO to revolvers

It's an obselete design, with a terrible trigger pull and generally crappy sights... Much easier to learn 'bad habits' with a revolver trigger than a good auto in single-action mode....

They're also a PITA to reload...

+1

revolvers suck. mausers are nice, too, but you don't see anyone carrying them into combat.

go to a range. rent a glock/sig/hk/cz/springfield and see what you shoot best. then buy one used.

consider a compact. you'll be old enough to carry in a few years- think about how lethal you'll be after 5 years of practice on the same gun

Posted: 10/15/2004 2:04:54 PM EDT

[#42]

Ok ,new Sig 2340 in 357 sig $389.00, police trade Sig 220/226/$389.99 ,police trade 2340 357 or .40 $299.99 ,police trade glock $339.99 to $399.99, Steyr m9 $279.99,new Arcus hp clone $219.99,my choice would be {for first pistol} Sig p226 in 9mm police trade ,easy to hit with and at $369.99 {CDNN}you can't go wrong .if you have never shot a p226 you need to do so before you buy anthing ,sooner or later every one get's one any way .

Posted: 10/15/2004 2:22:23 PM EDT

[#43]

Find a nice used Springfeild XD or Glock.

Posted: 10/15/2004 2:28:02 PM EDT

[#44]

Quoted:
Quoted:
P.S. Just say NO to revolvers

It's an obselete design, with a terrible trigger pull and generally crappy sights... Much easier to learn 'bad habits' with a revolver trigger than a good auto in single-action mode....

They're also a PITA to reload...

............

If you find that odd, name a revolver that:

1) Has a short (eg non-moving), crisp trigger, and less than 4.5lbs of pull (eg on par with a single action auto)
2) Does not require you to thumb the hammer with every shot
3) Has adjustable sights on par with a good 1911 or Beretta's Mec-Gar sights...
4) Can be reloaded as fast as an auto, without the need for complicated/fancy shell-holders...

Posted: 10/15/2004 2:34:45 PM EDT

[#45]

Any Ruger,S&W,or one of the XD springfields in 9mm. The XD s are extremely nice for the $$$ I'd personally stay away from .45s until ya got some more cash. Just my .02 hippie.gif

Posted: 10/15/2004 2:41:32 PM EDT

[#46]

CZ-75 nuff said

Posted: 10/15/2004 2:49:17 PM EDT

[#47]

Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
P.S. Just say NO to revolvers

It's an obselete design, with a terrible trigger pull and generally crappy sights... Much easier to learn 'bad habits' with a revolver trigger than a good auto in single-action mode....

They're also a PITA to reload...

............

If you find that odd, name a revolver that:

1) Has a short (eg non-moving), crisp trigger, and less than 4.5lbs of pull (eg on par with a single action auto)
2) Does not require you to thumb the hammer with every shot
3) Has adjustable sights on par with a good 1911 or Beretta's Mec-Gar sights...
4) Can be reloaded as fast as an auto, without the need for complicated/fancy shell-holders...

I'll bet that Miculek, as well as some of the shooters in my IDPA club, will make you look like you're shooting cap and ball.

Posted: 10/15/2004 3:30:33 PM EDT

[#48]

Quoted:
I'll bet that Miculek, as well as some of the shooters in my IDPA club, will make you look like you're shooting cap and ball.

As norman74 has pointed out it is the operator more than the equipment that makes the difference.

While I personally prefer a 1911, I daily carry a Model 64 S&W revolver provided by my Employer. The revolver makes ME no less lethal.

TRAINING, TRAINING, TRAINING !!!!!