what pistol to go with my M4?

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[ARCHIVED THREAD] - what pistol to go with my M4?

Posted: 3/24/2002 12:09:56 AM EDT

Sold my old faithfull Chinese Broomhandle to pay for AR parts. Brother in law is GIVING me (for a bill, to clean out his safe) a .45 cal Commando Arms MkIII Carbine, a Thompson look-a-like with five high-cap mags. I figure the gun has got to be worth somewhere between $350-450. I've no use for it, its the same size as the M4 and a lot less practical, so I'm going to clean it up and sell it or trade it off.

What I want is an opinion on a handgun to compliment the M-4. I'm considering a used Ruger GP-100 as I carried one while working as a rangemaster and loved it, but once again, I think I'd like an autopistol. My budget isnt huge but it gives me some choices, and I've narrowed it down to either a .40 or a .45. Thats an awful big field.

About all the experience with .45s outside 1911s I've had are with the EAA .45 Witness, but I hear bad things about their QC. Any suggestions for medium sized hands?

The .40 cals I'm considering are a S&W40C (Sigma), but the current S&W situation is a little off-putting even if the gun tops my list. I also like the .40 cal CZ-75 (CZ-85?) but I understand they are both every expensive and hard to find. My final choice would be a Taurus 100/101, kind of expensive, but an excellent weapon, having owned one previously and sold it to pay off some bills. The weapon was a tad heavy, and didnt completely fit my hands, although the Hogue grips on it were not factory.

What I'd like from you guys are some thoughts on the guns I've listed, as well as may be some suggestions on other guns I aught to consider.

Thanks in advance,

Amir

Posted: 3/24/2002 12:21:50 AM EDT

[#1]

GuardTanker,

Former 3-187th Inf, 101 Abn guy here.

I have an M4gery myself and I carry a USP 45 full size in the desert in an Eagle SAS 6 tac holeter. In concealed I carry the full size and a G26 in a ankle rig, the full size and a usp45c as a back up, 2 45c's in a Galco shoulder rig and sometimes my 3" S&W mod 29 with the 26 or a 45c as a back up, depending on the mood I'm in. I have a Sig 228 for those "light days". I don't think you can go wrong with HK. They always go "bang". Glocks are a bit cheaper, I just don't like the grip angle. My $0.02.

Posted: 3/24/2002 12:25:40 AM EDT

[#2]

Thanks rtech2, always appriciate the opinion of a vet.

Never cared for the grips on the Glocks either. They were the guns we had to carry at the range when the owners were around, I always pulled the Ruger out of the rental case when they dissapeared and holstered it with .357 HPs.

I'll look into the USPs, but they may be a bit above my $450 ceiling.

Posted: 3/24/2002 3:04:49 AM EDT

[#3]

A Glock 22 should be an easy find for your price range. Glock 21 would be a good buy as well. I prefer to buy handguns new but wouldn't hesistate to buy a Glock used if your budget won't allow it.

Rugers are nicely built guns but usually a little bit on the chunky side and not nearly as refined.

Sometimes you can find good buys when a police dept sells their old duty weapons. I bought a S&W 5906 a few years ago, with 5 15rd magazines, and 2 holsters for only $325. I don't use the gun for anything but it was a really good buy nonetheless.

Posted: 3/24/2002 3:54:12 AM EDT

[#4]

Love my Glock 23. Its light and compact, carries 13 rounds of .40, and always goes bang- come to think of it, it has alot of the same qualities as my M4...

Posted: 3/24/2002 5:03:31 AM EDT

[#5]

We are looking for a few good handgunners

handguns.ar15.com/forums/index.html

Posted: 3/24/2002 5:37:28 AM EDT

[#6]

For a $450 hard cap for an auto I'd look seriously at a CZ. Rugged, reliable, extremely accurate, good ergonomics, fantastic fit for most hands, available factory hicaps for under $50, military tested, the list stretches on and on. Most 9mm and .40 versions of the CZ-75 or 85 can be had for under $450.

Posted: 3/24/2002 9:15:51 AM EDT

[#7]

You seem like a 10mm pistol kind of guy to me.

Posted: 3/24/2002 9:37:06 AM EDT

[#8]

Well, thanks everyone, some good suggestions. I added another gun to my list, the CZ-100. Most of the Glocks I found on AA and GB were well over the $450 mark, some a lot higher. If I find one in decent condition for under, I might consider, although I should have mentioned, the Glock and the 1911 style pistols never worked quite right for me (hand fit again, plus, no offense, the Glock is just so plain. Then again...like a Volvo, its form follows function).

Keep em' coming, Ill keep reading them.

shooter69-
Yes, I like 10mm pistols- good ballance between easy accuracy and power. Now if they only would make a Makarov clone in it...

Posted: 3/24/2002 1:19:53 PM EDT

[#9]

Go with the G22 you won't be dissapointed. Did I mention that I have a G22

?

Posted: 3/24/2002 1:24:56 PM EDT

[#10]

Another vote for the 22. I have a 22C and it is a sweet shooter.

Posted: 3/24/2002 1:33:35 PM EDT

[#11]

Glock 22 is great, but Glock 35 is even better. I like both, especially the ability to go 357 SIG by just changing the barrel.

Posted: 3/24/2002 2:02:22 PM EDT

[#12]

Traded of my HK USP Tactical for my new m4. So now I bought a new Sprinfield XD in 9mm.. Love it, it's an awsome gun your like me i kinda like Glocks but not really, this weapon fills the niche nicley!!!cost me $399.00 plus tax!! I've put 500 rounds thru it and not one malfuntion, check it out you'll be suprised!!!!

Posted: 3/24/2002 2:16:56 PM EDT

[#13]

Ruger P97. It's a polymer .45 DA/SA with 8 round mag that sells for $350 new. if you don't like Poly pick the Ruger P90 in stainless for $400.

Posted: 3/24/2002 3:08:50 PM EDT

[#14]

I must agree with Steve on this one, the P97 Ruger in .45 ACP is hard to beat, especially in your price range. Spend $350 on a brand new pistol and then you'll still have enough left to buy extra mags (you'll get two with the gun). And you'll have a little extra left for ammo, ammo pouches, ect. The P97 is just as reliable as more expensive guns and are very accurate. The trigger also feels good to me.
Although outside of your price range, a good Sig-Sauer P226 or P229 in .40 cal is the only other semi-auto handgun I would recommend ahead of the Ruger. They are sweet pistols. I'm sure the H&K's are nice also, but I have never owned one so I can't comment. Glocks seem ok in most ways, but I just don't like the feel of their triggers or their grip angle, although this is just a personal preference of mine and may not be noticed by you. Any of them should serve you well. And don't completely give up on the revolver, they aren't outclassed just yet.

Posted: 3/24/2002 10:09:48 PM EDT

[#15]

Well I can't resist this one.

I have a Ruger gp100/357 mag - It is awesome.
However, like you, I prefer an auto.

So, I've picked up a Glock 19- I think (aside from comp versions, and sizes) that different calibre Glocks are very similar pieces with slightly different sizes. I love mine, but continue looking. To me, the size fo the 19 is perfect for concealing- the grip is, however a little tight to me.

Now, I'm customizing a 1911A1(springfield-full size) Yes it is awesome. For carry it's a little bulky, and heavy. However, for the range it is ideal. A handgun for backup to a long (medium?) gun is definitely the roll of the 1911. I have to admit I was influenced by the FBI's tests when I chose the Springfield.

I have owned a Ruger P90 .45 auto. This pistol NEVER jammed once. Accuracy was comparable to any I've gotten with the big round. I must, however agree that it is a little bulkier than the 1911 package.

If you are a tinkerer, and want to customize your piece, go with the 1911. The variety of grips and other options was another selling point to me.

If your budget is tighter u might still accomodate the 1911(buyer beware) but the ruger p90 series would be the sure budget performer.

Posted: 3/24/2002 10:18:31 PM EDT

[#16]

The Browning HiPower is available in .40S&W. A new one may be somewhat outside your budget, but BHPs are worth it.

Posted: 3/25/2002 4:52:52 AM EDT

[#17]

Guard Tanker,

I'm new to ARs but have been shooting pistols for over 20 years, mostly 1911s. I've owned six variants. Currently I have a Kimber Custom Eclipse and a Colt Officers ACP. Both in 45. IMHO The 1911 design is the finist CQB and personal defense pistol ever designed. It is the fast into action, very concealable, acurate, reliable and chambered for the greatest pistol round ever the 45 ACP cartridge. Capacity is a nonissue as rapid reloads are possible (with some practice). Also the single stack mags are easier to conceal than double stacks so you can carry more spares. You can find used Colt Model 1994 for under $500. If you spend a little more you can get a new Kimber Custom (base model)for under $600. Stay away from the cast frame imports. They're okay for plinking/target shooting but wouldn't truust my life to them. Finally the 1911 is an American design and Colts/Kimbers are made in the USA.

Deucer01

Posted: 3/25/2002 6:12:44 AM EDT

[#18]

The Ruger P90 series is REAL tough to beat at the price. Frankly, it's tough to beat at any price. I owned a KP90DC Satinless decocker model.

It was EXTREMELY reliable with any ammunition I fed it, was as accurate as my SIG 220m and real comfortable to shoot. The trigger was not quite as good, but it was still real nice. I liked the grip angle much better than on my Glock 23, and while it was bulkier than other pistols of the caliber and capacity, it wasn't bad for overt carry or even concealed carry when you can wear a jacket.

As an aside, I believe the Massad Ayoob of Lethal Force Institute carries or has carried the P90 as his uniformed carry handgun and issues them to his department. That's a pretty good endorsement.

Posted: 3/25/2002 6:49:26 AM EDT

[#19]

For a combat pistol, go with a 9mm. Why not complement the world's best combat rifle with the world's best combat pistol - SIG P226!

Posted: 3/25/2002 9:54:17 AM EDT

[#20]

I love my HK USP .45 Full Size. I've put about 1,500 rounds through it with out a single problem. Off the bench it shoots 1.5 inch groups at 25 yds. I had to do some trigger work, but it was simple and now it's great. And not to mention it's the coolest looking pistol around. Good luck

Posted: 3/25/2002 9:23:31 PM EDT

[#21]

Cool is for PENGUINS!

GuardTanker: it is apparent to me that you probably haven't tried handling the GLOCK 30!!!

If it is a slimmer grip (AKA 1911) you desire, go GLOCK 36...

These are both in .45 ACP.

Both these models carry very (surprisingly) well.

Best of luck.

Posted: 3/25/2002 9:31:38 PM EDT

[#22]

I'd say go with something like a USP or Glock. Lightwieght, plastic, corrosion resistant just like the AR.

Posted: 3/26/2002 6:59:29 AM EDT

[#23]

I know there a lot of Glock fans here, but DO take a look at a CZ75-85 few handguns will fit your hands as well as the CZ does, just as reliable as a Glock and probably more accurate, prices for NEW CZ-78/85 in my area are about $365-385.00 No offence to Glock fans, but every one I've ever picked up the grip felt like a 2x4 with the edges rounded off, If it does'nt fit my hands well I'm not interested.

Posted: 3/26/2002 9:49:07 AM EDT

[#24]

Hate everything about the glock. Well, not hate, but dislike.

Posted: 3/26/2002 10:09:31 AM EDT

[#25]

If you liked the EAA Witness, it is imported now by Springfield, and sold under their brand. I'd bet their QC is entirely acceptable.

Posted: 3/26/2002 11:35:52 AM EDT

[#26]

I bought a polymer/steel EAA Witness 9mm a few months ago. I paid around $290 for the gun and have been pleased, no malfuctions and the gun has a great feel. I would certainly check out the .40 & 45 Witness.

Posted: 3/29/2002 8:24:13 AM EDT

[#27]

I am curious if you can post a pic of the Commando Arms MkIII Carbine. I can't seem to find one on the web at all.
And not to tease or anything, but I have a pt-100 that might trade if I like it.
Just be aware, I have never gotten rid of a gun before, and the pt-100 was my first so it might be hard to get rid of.

Posted: 3/29/2002 8:56:06 AM EDT

[#28]

How about a Glock? A model 23 in .40 *&* would be a very good compliment to your AR. So would a model 35.

Good luck!

Posted: 3/29/2002 11:24:34 AM EDT

[#29]

Get your self a good old 1911 it will always do you right!!!!!!!

Posted: 3/29/2002 12:44:19 PM EDT

[#30]

Andrewh- My server (geocities) wont let me show a pic from there to here, so I'll give you the link to it- its a bac pic, but I'll be able to give you more tonight if you e-mail me.

http://www.geocities.com/lebel_86/VAcarbine.jpg

Glockster- Glocks are great guns but I cant stand the grips. Until they make one with more ergonomicaly comfortable grips (and round that damned slide off- it looks like its half finished) I'll have to take a pass.

5150BRY- Only memory of a 1911 is a chromed out one covered with checkering grip surfaces, and it ripped the shit out of my hands whenever I shot it. I may have to try a mil-spec 1911....they seem to be lauded by just about everyone...

Posted: 3/29/2002 3:06:50 PM EDT

[#31]

Kimber Custom Fullsize is my preference.
But any 1911 will do.

Posted: 3/31/2002 6:11:57 AM EDT

[#32]

this should work for you, it does for me

www.villagephotos.com/pubimage.asp?id_=168053

Posted: 3/31/2002 6:42:54 AM EDT

[#33]

Beretta 96.

Posted: 3/31/2002 7:04:45 AM EDT

[#34]

I went with a 92fs. Its the authentic companion for the M4, had many years of using one in the military, had lots of mags and holsters for it that I never had to turn in, its what Im most used to. Since I dont have to worry about using milspec ammo I have no concerns about stopping power(I feed it hydrashoks and have BTs and starfires also) Preban mags are easy to pick up if you live near a base. And I paid 500 for it, close to your price range.

Posted: 3/31/2002 7:15:17 AM EDT

[#35]

I have n H&K USP and a Walther P-99, both in .40 S&W...

Posted: 3/31/2002 7:55:56 AM EDT

[#36]

another vote for Glock..

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - what pistol to go with my M4?

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