Looking for a relatively compact handgun for under $500

[iapetos]

Refer to 21SF post above..



9mm is the cheapest to shoot (compared to 40sw, 45acp, 38spl, 357, etc etc). I used FMJ to break in my Kahr CW9. Federal, Remington and Winchester. No hiccups. Then I ran a box of some Fiocchi HPs I was going to use for SD/HD. 50rds feed great. Later I tried Federal HPs, no problems.

9mm has the least recoil as well. Out of the CW9, an 18 oz gun, I guess you could say its a lil snappy, but its really controllable. Im not big or anything, but I dont find it a problem. I have a Glock 23 as well, its a 40sw, and a lot say its snappy, but again, recoil is manageable.

Cant go wrong with the CW9 or any Glock. Buy both

I really like the idea of the CW9, so hearing positive feedback about it is reassuring. That and the CZ compact seem to be my top picks. Thanks for the input on the CW.

[Cyc Wid It]

If you haven't shot a Sig you should give it a try. A single stack Sig P225 will have a slimmer feel to it as well. The metal frame will help it handle recoil better and it is as reliable as any other gun. It's also not so small where you may have trouble learning how to shoot it accurately.

[vincentk]

Lot of great recommendations in this thread, I'd say Glock 19 from GSSF or Ruger SR9c, or the Sig P6.

Whatever you choose, make it a 9mm, it will be way cheaper to shoot.

[runawayshawn]

my brother just bought a ruger sr9. I shot it last weekend and I liked it. Its fairly cheap and would be a good starter gun.

[ibmenace]

I'm actually somewhat interested in the CW9.... Only thing I'm a bit unsure about is I'm not sure how many opportunities I'll have to deal with that 200 round break in period. Anyone have experience with that? I'd be worried about FTE's.

i can highly reccomend the kahr cw9.It is great small light weight and easily able to conceal. I use a iwb holster and nobody has ever noticed it and are amazed if i mention that i have it because they would never have known. 9mm is great efficient stopping power and the small frame is easy to conceal. The only thing i would like changed is a double stack high cap. mag. There is not a 200 rd. break in with the new cw models. I also know a few other guys that purchased the new kahr and have had no jams of misfires right out of the box. Price is great at $400.00 here local but i have seen them for up to $500.00.

[ibmenace]

And it is super slim and does not have that wide block feel like the glock, that's why i picked it a carry choice.The only thing needed to finish this firearm off is a $10.00 hogue grip.

[JeepFreak]

I'm just not sure if I can get past the boxy feel.... If I can, it'll be the perfect weapon, and I'll have to save up for it.

I can't get comfortable with a Glock either. XD's are only a little better. I really love my Beretta 92FS, but you'd have to be a pretty big dude to conceal one! If you can get your hands on one, think about the Beretta Px4 Storm Compact. It'll be hitting shelves pretty soon.
Billy

EDIT: Actually, the Px4 will probably be pushing your price range a little too far. Maybe consider a used 92? You'll probably wanna buy something new for CCW down the line anyway

[JeepFreak]

I'm actually somewhat interested in the CW9.... Only thing I'm a bit unsure about is I'm not sure how many opportunities I'll have to deal with that 200 round break in period. Anyone have experience with that? I'd be worried about FTE's.

200rds is NOTHING! It goes by faster than $200 sitting at a dollar slot machine!
Billy

[JeepFreak]

That's what I've been concerned about more than anything is the ammo cost...

You probably have friends that would pay for their own ammo if you let 'em shoot it, right? That's how I broke in the 92.
Billy