For you pistol nuts

[marko138]

Originally Posted by Method

These are all fantastic bits of advice, thank you.

The Sig 226 is currently at the top of my list, having handled all of the guns available at the shop. I'm headed out next week to put several rounds through a 226 and a 229 in both 9mm and 40, as well as a few of the other guns on my list.

At this point, I'm likely just going to buy the 1 pistol, go through my training classes and then look at getting another .22 plinker. Ultimately, for the home defense/carry pistol, I want to go for the largest caliber I can shoot comfortably and accurately with. (Be it 9mm, 40, or whatever). It needs to be comfortable enough to be able to take to the range often and be able to practice on a regular basis. I've always enjoyed shooting, but never had the opportunity to be able to go to the range regularly until now, and so have never purchased a gun.

The Sig seemed to fit my hand the best, though of course it's the most expensive. P226 in 40 with nightsights, 4 mags and a couple other bits was priced at 875.

The XD40 also felt nice, though a bit top heavy and didn't fit quite as well as the Sig. Nice gun though.

I handled a Ruger (something in 40, wish I could remember the model, perhaps the SR40?) and that also fit very well. It was surprisingly light (unloaded of course) so I'm curious to see what kind of recoil and shooting experience it will garner.

I also handled a few Glocks, and was not a big fan. They didn't fit my hand well, and I was having issues with the fit and finish of the gun. I know they are incredibly reliable and I plan on shooting one, but it's down there at the bottom of my list.

Marco - good call on the XD9SC. A subcompact is a little small for my hands, but am considering a compact. Initially I'm reviewing full size, but ultimately I would love to have 3: A plinker, an HD pistol, and a CC pistol. All of which should be able to be fired regularly at the range.

Revolvers are also another great alternative. You can't beat the reliability and simplicity of a revolver. I plan on reviewing several, and ultimately will go with my gut feel on what feels the best. I still lean towards a semi-auto, but would be doing myself a disservice if I didn't at least give them a chance.

Jeff - You read my mind. I have considered this exact same question many times. The answer is: to protect my stuff? No. To protect the well being of myself and my family (including my unborn children) Yes, without a second thought.

I'm looking forward to shooting these next week. It'll be interesting to see how it all turns out.

That's where I think you'd like the XDSC or C because they come with a smaller mag for CC use and a larger mag w/ grip sleeve for HD use.