I want a new handgun

[RandyDaytona]

If you have a little more $ to work with, look at Sig 229.

If you get a 229, I'd look for a used/older one. We have had some problems of late with the newer Sigs. YMMV, of course, and it'll depend somewhat on how hard you use them, what ammo, etc.

The older ones are tanks and still run flawlessly, though.

 

[ndcent]

The best advice I've ever used is just to see what feels right in your hand.

For me it was the S&W M&P over Glocks and Springfields which felt like bricks in my hand, not comfortable at all.

I've only put about 600 rounds through my MP so far but I'm loving it.

I bought the .40 bc it was on a better sale than the 9mm.

My brother has a Springfield .40 and I don't like the quality of it, but it's not the XD which I gather are much nicer.

 

[helo-mech]

I carry the Glock 27 subcompact 40. As mentioned earlier the mag extension is a must, but it conceals very well. Standard mag hold 9 and I usually have at least one 15 round mag close. I have no complaints about it. I even shoot reloads, which a lot of people swear is a no-no with a Glock, with no issues.

My only real suggestion is if you already have a handgun look at the same caliber. I've always thought it nice to only have to worry about one ammo type. Just personal opinion. I know most like having different options and enjoy owning different calibers.

 

[Supra725]

if you werent so far away..

I have my p226 in .40 for sale for $499

 

[Drcoffee]

Gerdo,

Check out the SIG E2022. Its a revised Sig Pro but revised for the better. The grip is better for one. The E2022 will not say Sig Pro on the grip. Instead it will have Sig Sauer. I bought one off or gunbroker and it is hands down my new favorite gun. Get the factory sig light night sights on it and you will stay below your price target. The E2022 was the model Sig made for the French contract and now they are done with the French they are selling this gun cheap. I got lucky and bought mine for $300 shipped but $400 is typical. The 9mm has a higher capcity and with all the new self defense ammo like Hornady has, I have confidence in the 9mm caliber again. The 40cal is a little snappy which can be a problem for those who dont shoot frequently.

What I like best is the decocker, DA/SA and No safety. If this a self defense gun, you dont want a safety.

 

[t4r4life]

i don't have a pistol yet but i'll be getting the Glock 17 base on price, reliability and looks, what can i say i like my guns like i like my hookers

 

[McFly2003]

S&W M&P with an apex trigger in it. fits into your budget and you can go either 9 or .40

 

[t4r4life]

S&W M&P with an apex trigger in it. fits into your budget and you can go either 9 or .40

good gun but a nightmare to strip down

 

[t4r4life]

i also like the way the XDm shoots, the gun is also pretty reasonably priced, and you gotta love the grip safety.

 

[Glock_19]

All good choices. However, I'm obviously loyal to Glock.

As far as caliber I have a 19 and a 26. I find 9mm to be the best balance of performance and price. Winchester white box is cheap enough to shoot at the range and I keep Speer gold dots for the night stand.

 

[bigslimdog]

S&W M&P with an apex trigger in it. fits into your budget and you can go either 9 or .40

I just put the Apex duty carry kit in my M&P .40. Made a huge difference, now I prefer my M&P over my XD and Sig 229. The M&P was right around $500 including the Apex kit.

good gun but a nightmare to strip down

Field stripping is no harder than any other pistol. Are you talking about complete disassembly? When I put the Apex trigger kit in, it was the first time I have stripped a pistol further than a normal field strip and it wasn't very difficult IMO. I used a YouTube video to guide me on it and had the trigger kit installed in about an hour (with no specialized tools).

 

[Cameronswmp9]

If you get a 229, I'd look for a used/older one. We have had some problems of late with the newer Sigs. YMMV, of course, and it'll depend somewhat on how hard you use them, what ammo, etc.

The older ones are tanks and still run flawlessly, though.

I have a P228 and it is an awesome gun, got it used well within your price range.

I have had a G19 as well as other Glocks, a few M&Ps, and a few other different guns. I have carried most of them concealed and open, and I can say that Glock and M&P are both great choices, shoot and decide. Dont be afraid to try others too, just a good reliable brand. I dont like the XDs, but people do and they are decent weapons.