first pistol?

[FieldsofFire]

If you have any local ranges around you that rent pistols, I would try some out to see what you like the best in terms of feel, starting with a few suggestions like a Glock, S&W M&P, and Springfield Armory XD. You can get a used Glock or XD easily in the sub $500 price range after PPT fee.

[cmace22]

The M&P series are a win as well.

[C.W.M.V.]

Hey guys I'm thinking about picking up a pistol now that the damn gun bug bit me. (Just built an ar15) I would like something that is reasonably priced to buy and shoot and would be effective for home defense also. I had a great experience buying my upper through this site so I was hoping maybe you guys have suggestions. I'm only looking to spend around 500 tops, and will likely pick up something used

Buddy! Whats up! Have you lost weight? Been going to the gym? well anyway I have your gun for sale...

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=308645

In all seriousness I started out with a Colt 70 series. Since then I have had Glocks and XD's. I always come back to 1911's though.
If I had to choose it would be an XD or a 1911 either in 45acp.

[socal-shooter]

Glock


nuff said

[C.W.M.V.]

Glock


nuff said

NOT!!!!!

[HCz]

used Glock, used S&W M&P, used Springfield XD should fit the price. (CZ 75B also could be considered)

[Mr. Meeseeks]

Glock, XD, M&P, CZ75, or P6 will all serve you quite well.

+1
Couldn't have written it better my self.

[faterikcartman]

I have dozens of different pistols so luckily I was able to choose the Towlie option. But if I had to pick just one and were in your shoes I don't think you can go wrong with a used Glock standard size in .40 S&W. And no, I'm not a Glock fanboy. In fact I only recently bought my first one. But my wife has owned one for years so I am familiar with them and even though I prefer others, I have the luxury of having many. If you don't, get the Glock and you won't regret it.

[afro]

1. Go to gun shop
2. Fondle every single pistol in the caliber you like and the price range you're willing to pay
3. If you can, rent the one you think feels the best and shoot it.

If you like it, buy it

If not, go back to step 2 and try again.

[Mr. Meeseeks]

Oh yeah, I forgot one of my $500 favorites, the Sig 2022 or Sig Pro line of pistols. Next to the CZ75 line of pistols its probably one of the most underrated hand guns ever.

[Average Joe American]

What ever you get, just remember trigger time & training is the only thing that will make you a better shot...not the brand or price you paid.

That being said, my choice at $500 is a used Glock 9mm or a S&W M&P9. Ammo is cheap. cheap = more shooting = better your skill = shot placement = bad guy dies with 2 in the chest & 1 in the head. I havent met a man yet that will stand down range and take a few bonded,+P, JHP's in 9mm. But in reality, any full sized caliber (9mm or larger) will do as long as you are accurate with it.