first handgun suggestions please

[fishnbeer]

hey guys, recently been gettin the itch for another firearm. i have several long guns, and i think it is time to add a pistol to the list. i have shot a fair share of pistols, but having never owned one i dont have too much knowledge on the subject. i checked out the sticky thread for first time buyers which was helpful but still need some suggestions. i have searched around for different options but there are so many out there its a bit overwhelming.

will mostly be used for plinking, and as a backup for the AR in a SHTF situation when that arises. im not particular about any brand, just has to be semi-auto and reliable. price range up to $600, caliber im debating .40sw or 9mm

the ones that caught my eye are:
springfield XD (havent shot a compact or M yet)
glocks, any model better than others?
s&w mp (not too many in my price range)

i REALLY liked the sigs that i shot, but i cant afford one just yet. HKs are sexy, but again, out of my price range. what others should i try out?

thanks

[sirgiles]

start by reading the 1st sticky of this thread.

[NotEnufGarage]

My first was a Glock 17 in 1990 and I still have it. Easy to use, aim and clean. Not particular about brand or type of ammo (brass, zinc, aluminum cased). Easy to find accessories for, if you want. Figure around $500 or so, plus FFL fees and tax.

If you want to go a little cheaper, look for a revolver in .38 Special or .357 Magnum. Ammo is more expensive for those, though. 9MM runs $10 - $15 per 50 or less, .38/.357 run $18 - $25/50. I'm just talking about plinking rounds here, not HP or match grade ammo.

I'd go to a range that rents handguns and try a few out, first.

[RollingCode3]

READ THE STICKY......and visit your local shooting range.

[iareConfusE]

At the bottom of the sticky, there is a list of most of today's most popular handgun choices. The list isn't complete, but it's what I found that people are mostly talking about right now.

[kayaker]

1st handgun

I would get something simple, either a revolver or a Glock, By the way, from what I've seen lately you will spend a bit more money on a revolver than a Glock.
I have a Glock model 22, full size .40 S&W. 9mm ammo cost less, I prefer the .40 though. I've got thousands of rounds through it, ultra reliable, easy to clean and simple to use. I've aquired a few more handguns since I got my Glock, including a Colt 1911 .45 but my Glock is still my go-to gun.

[Mickey D]

Get a nice .38/.357 revolver for your first gun. IMO they are better to learn shooting fundamentals, gain a good hold and site picture and inherently more accurate, especially with a nice single action trigger.

[DaveFJ80]

READ THE STICKY

hah, I never noticed it until now. Good stuff and good read for anybody

[IPSICK]

Glock 34. When standard caps become available again, 17rds of 9mm is nice to have for plinking and SHTF. Also the longer sight radius will give you precise and accurate shots.

[aca72]

GLOCK it!

If you want SIGs but on a budget, consider a CPO.

[ZX-10R]

Was in your position late last year.

Narrowed it down to M&P 9/ 45, FN FNP-9, Beretta M9A1, Sig 2022...Also considered was a Glock but not seriously, Ruger SR9, and Kimber Ultra Carry II.

I have shot all of them except the 2022, Kimber, and the FNP-9. Had to go on reviews and reommendations for those...

After range time with each gun...I got the M&P 45 even though I was out to get a 9mm first. Then less than a month later after wanting a 9mm I went bought the FNP-9. which on good word alone and a ton of reading up on was a great purchase that equaled and in some cases surpassed my M&P 45 purchase.

In about a month or two I have to make a decision between the Kimber Ultra Carry II and the Beretta M9A1 (it was my first choice but I could never find one). I am leaning toward the Kimber on this because my friend Mark keeps saying you've shot mine what are you waiting for? I am buying both but the ammo comes into play and love that I can shoot 9mm all day and all night without a worry...

Try before you buy but also read reviews...Some people here are biased toward Glock, M&P, etc. Ask friends as well who may own some of the guns you are considering...I never shot the FNP-9 but the thing got great reviews everywhere and I found a ton of info on a PA site my friend sent me...I bought it and low and behold all the reviews were right it is a great underrated handgun.

Be an educated buyer and look at multiple sources of information. Good luck and if you are in Irvine, Santa Barbara area, or Bay Area, let me know and you are more than welcome to try the FNP-9 since no where around here has them for rental.