Best 9mmsemi-auto pistol for under $600?

Goodguy14 · January 30, 2014, 10:53 AM

Hi all,
This might have been brought up before. But I'm new to the gun market. I'm thinking of picking up a Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm for $550.
But just for the sake of research... What is your choice for a 9mm semi auto under $550??

RockDTMC · January 30, 2014, 11:01 AM

You're going to get a lot of opinions on this one. There are quite a few really good 9mm handguns out there under $600. My choice would be a CZ 75 PCR without a doubt.

Bozz10mm · January 30, 2014, 11:04 AM

I would suggest Springfield XDm 3.8 Compact in 9mm or Glock 19. Also, have a look at the Ruger SR9c. All excellent choices for under $600.

carguychris · January 30, 2014, 11:15 AM

Define "best".

AndyWest · January 30, 2014, 11:38 AM

Quote:

This might have been brought up before

Best 9mm on a given budget? That's a new one to me

CZ 75 is on my short list, but for a first gun it's hard to argue against a Glock 17 or 19. Autoloaders don't get any simpler to use or maintain.

Que · January 30, 2014, 11:45 AM

While the Beretta is a fine choice I would give the nod to the CZ75 BD Police.

Uncle Malice · January 30, 2014, 11:48 AM

You can get a used HK USP for definitely under $600, often under $500.

Summit Gun Broker currently has used USP 40's for $489.

If you're opposed to the used market, the M&P 9 or Gen 4 Glock 19/17 would be my recommendation.

Noreaster · January 30, 2014, 11:51 AM

Very subjective, but it all depends. I love the Sig classic series. I had a PX4 that was outstanding (one of the most accurate I've ever fired.) Right now I'm mostly a Glock guy. The M&P series is also a good buy. Stick with a quality firearm and then see what fits your hand the best. I think the PX4 is a great purchase.

ATW525 · January 30, 2014, 11:56 AM

Under $550: Glock 19 or S&W M&P 9
Under $600: Beretta 92FS/M9 or CZ 75

Strictly my opinion of what I would buy given those budget limitations.

Goodguy14 · January 30, 2014, 12:08 PM

By "best" I mean.. If u didn't have a 9mm semi and had $600 which gun would you buy?
I totally realize the responses would be all over the map. I'd actually prefer that as I'm trying to learn about different brands etc..
Thanks from a newbie!

Goodguy14 · January 30, 2014, 12:10 PM

Oh, I'm mainly looking at new since this is my first gun..

Pukindog12 · January 30, 2014, 12:22 PM

Walther P99 AS or PPQ.

Jay24bal · January 30, 2014, 12:36 PM

With your budget, most reputable manufacturers offer a 9mm that should be reliable, accurate, and most of us would (and do) trust our lives with.

As you said, you are just looking to get a list of names to see what else is out there, here is the list I would look at: Glock 17/19, S&W M&P, Springfield XD, Beretta 92, CZ 75, Ruger SR9, Sig 2022, Beretta PX4, FN-FNX, Kahr P-9, Walther P99, Walther PPS. I am sure there are others, but these were the ones off the top of my head.

All of these are "quality" guns that can be the "the best" depending on what you are looking for, and in the end you will most likely not be disappointed with any og them.

The best way to know would be to see what feels best and what you shoot best. If possible, try and rent the ones you are considering at a local range and get a feel for them.

Shadi Khalil · January 30, 2014, 12:42 PM

M&P 9c or full sized

pilpens · January 30, 2014, 12:45 PM

Maybe:
1. Walther PPQ
2. Glock 26/19/17
3. RIA FS tactical
4. EAA Witness Elite Match

It has been a while since I looked up prices. The pistols listed above should be near the mark.
What do you plan it for? CC? Target/Range?

pat701 · January 30, 2014, 12:48 PM

IMHO Sig SP2022

Dc777 · January 30, 2014, 01:23 PM

Can you go to a range and rent some guns to see which one you like the most?

born2climb · January 30, 2014, 01:35 PM

G19, unless specifically for concealed carry. If so, then XDS or Shield.

TunnelRat · January 30, 2014, 01:36 PM

Quote:

Can you go to a range and rent some guns to see which one you like the most?

Bingo.

When I was first looking at guns I went to a public range that had a very good selection of rentals. I spent a good amount of money, but it definitely paid off.

loose_holster_dan · January 30, 2014, 01:36 PM

anything metal from CZ

i'm not a fan of the px4. it's bulky, especially for the capacity.

1hogfan83 · January 30, 2014, 02:54 PM

I walked out of the store with my cz P-01 after taxes for $609. I would recommend the P-01 or its rail less brother, the PCR, maybe at a few dollars cheaper.

dakota.potts · January 30, 2014, 03:44 PM

I was in that same situation and bought a CZ BD Police.

I am very happy with it for home/car defense, range use, and hopefully competitions one day, but I doubt I will ever be able to conceal it in summer clothes. For concealed carry I would but the most compact CZ I could find, maybe the RAMI

TailGator · January 30, 2014, 04:18 PM

The PX4 has the advantage of being an exceptionally soft shooter, and therefore easy to learn on. The rotating barrel (full size and compact models) play a big role in that, but the ergonomics are good for most people on the PX4. I personally think it is quite a good value. My daughter has one and loves it. As others have said, though, there are quite a few quality pistols in your price range, so look at all the features, handle them, shoot what you can, and then make up your mind.

IMightBeWrong · January 30, 2014, 04:26 PM

The Walther PPQ, the SIG SP2022, and the M&P are the first pistols in that range I would look at - And in that order.

I was once a huge fan of Glocks. I've owned 5 of them since I got into shooting. The latter 3 were all Gen 4s made here in the US. Ever since they started building Glocks in the US, I haven't had a good experience with them. I hope they get back to their Austrian made quality levels at some point, but for right now I'm over the whole Glock phase. I took too many ejected casings to the forehead on ALL THREE of my Gen 4s to go back any time soon. YMMV.

As for the XD, I just don't like them. That's just me though. :P

Sparks1957 · January 30, 2014, 05:53 PM

For the money, I have a pretty high opinion of CZ pistols, in particular the P-01.

January 30, 2014, 10:53 AM	#1
Goodguy14 Member Join Date: January 28, 2014 Location: Orange, CA Posts: 49	Best 9mmsemi-auto pistol for under $600? Hi all, This might have been brought up before. But I'm new to the gun market. I'm thinking of picking up a Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm for $550. But just for the sake of research... What is your choice for a 9mm semi auto under $550??

January 30, 2014, 11:15 AM	#4
carguychris Senior Member Join Date: October 20, 2007 Location: Richardson, TX Posts: 7,523	Define "best". __________________ "Smokey, this is not 'Nam. This is bowling. There are rules... MARK IT ZERO!!" - Walter Sobchak

January 30, 2014, 11:48 AM	#7
Uncle Malice Senior Member Join Date: May 11, 2009 Location: Phoenix Posts: 4,580	You can get a used HK USP for definitely under $600, often under $500. Summit Gun Broker currently has used USP 40's for $489. If you're opposed to the used market, the M&P 9 or Gen 4 Glock 19/17 would be my recommendation. __________________ Handguns: 2x Glock 19.4 \| Glock 26.4 \| HK USP 9 \| HK P2000 \| HK VP9 SK \| HK P30 \| CZ Shadow 2 \| CZ P-10 C \| CZ P-07 \| CZP-01 \| S&W 360PD Rifles: DDM4 \| SGL 21 \| SAM7K \| Draco \| PSA PDW SBR \| ASA Side-Charger SBR \| CZ Scorpion K SBR \| Aero M4E1 9" 300blk SBR \| Angstadt Jack9 SBR \| Savage Mark II FV-SR Shotguns: Mossberg 590A1 20" SP \| Mossberg Shockwave

January 30, 2014, 12:36 PM	#13
Jay24bal Senior Member Join Date: December 13, 2011 Location: Cleveland, OH Posts: 735	With your budget, most reputable manufacturers offer a 9mm that should be reliable, accurate, and most of us would (and do) trust our lives with. As you said, you are just looking to get a list of names to see what else is out there, here is the list I would look at: Glock 17/19, S&W M&P, Springfield XD, Beretta 92, CZ 75, Ruger SR9, Sig 2022, Beretta PX4, FN-FNX, Kahr P-9, Walther P99, Walther PPS. I am sure there are others, but these were the ones off the top of my head. All of these are "quality" guns that can be the "the best" depending on what you are looking for, and in the end you will most likely not be disappointed with any og them. The best way to know would be to see what feels best and what you shoot best. If possible, try and rent the ones you are considering at a local range and get a feel for them. __________________ I like guns. Once Fired Brass, Top quality, Fast shipping, Best prices. http://300AacBrass.com/ -10% Coupon use code " Jay24bal "

January 30, 2014, 01:23 PM	#17
Dc777 Senior Member Join Date: November 18, 2013 Location: South West, Alabama Posts: 609	Can you go to a range and rent some guns to see which one you like the most? __________________ NRA member Paintings were made to look at, and guns were made to be shot. If you aren't going to use them as they are intended for, get rid of them and buy a Picasso.

January 30, 2014, 11:01 AM	#2
RockDTMC Member Join Date: October 25, 2013 Location: Phoenix, AZ Posts: 96	You're going to get a lot of opinions on this one. There are quite a few really good 9mm handguns out there under $600. My choice would be a CZ 75 PCR without a doubt.

January 30, 2014, 11:04 AM	#3
Bozz10mm Senior Member Join Date: June 28, 2013 Location: Central Texas Posts: 287	I would suggest Springfield XDm 3.8 Compact in 9mm or Glock 19. Also, have a look at the Ruger SR9c. All excellent choices for under $600.

January 30, 2014, 11:45 AM	#6
Que Senior Member Join Date: January 20, 2008 Location: Georgia Posts: 912	While the Beretta is a fine choice I would give the nod to the CZ75 BD Police.

January 30, 2014, 11:51 AM	#8
Noreaster Senior Member Join Date: January 30, 2011 Location: New England Posts: 1,449	Very subjective, but it all depends. I love the Sig classic series. I had a PX4 that was outstanding (one of the most accurate I've ever fired.) Right now I'm mostly a Glock guy. The M&P series is also a good buy. Stick with a quality firearm and then see what fits your hand the best. I think the PX4 is a great purchase.

January 30, 2014, 11:56 AM	#9
ATW525 Senior Member Join Date: March 14, 2005 Location: Concord, NH Posts: 2,723	Under $550: Glock 19 or S&W M&P 9 Under $600: Beretta 92FS/M9 or CZ 75 Strictly my opinion of what I would buy given those budget limitations.

January 30, 2014, 12:08 PM	#10
Goodguy14 Member Join Date: January 28, 2014 Location: Orange, CA Posts: 49	By "best" I mean.. If u didn't have a 9mm semi and had $600 which gun would you buy? I totally realize the responses would be all over the map. I'd actually prefer that as I'm trying to learn about different brands etc.. Thanks from a newbie!

January 30, 2014, 12:10 PM	#11
Goodguy14 Member Join Date: January 28, 2014 Location: Orange, CA Posts: 49	Oh, I'm mainly looking at new since this is my first gun..

January 30, 2014, 12:22 PM	#12
Pukindog12 Senior Member Join Date: February 3, 2011 Posts: 208	Walther P99 AS or PPQ.

January 30, 2014, 12:42 PM	#14
Shadi Khalil Senior Member Join Date: September 23, 2006 Location: Alexandria, VA Posts: 5,210	M&P 9c or full sized

January 30, 2014, 12:45 PM	#15
pilpens Senior Member Join Date: April 24, 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 1,696	Maybe: 1. Walther PPQ 2. Glock 26/19/17 3. RIA FS tactical 4. EAA Witness Elite Match It has been a while since I looked up prices. The pistols listed above should be near the mark. What do you plan it for? CC? Target/Range?

January 30, 2014, 12:48 PM	#16
pat701 Senior Member Join Date: November 6, 2005 Location: South west Missouri Posts: 315	IMHO Sig SP2022

January 30, 2014, 01:35 PM	#18
born2climb Senior Member Join Date: January 17, 2013 Posts: 140	G19, unless specifically for concealed carry. If so, then XDS or Shield. __________________ Don't invest in idiots....the market's flooded!!!

January 30, 2014, 01:36 PM	#20
loose_holster_dan Senior Member Join Date: April 5, 2011 Location: NE Ohio Posts: 2,461	anything metal from CZ i'm not a fan of the px4. it's bulky, especially for the capacity. __________________ Favorite range gun for the money - CZ 75B or STI Spartan V 9mm Go-to carry setup - Walther PPS or PPQ in FIST kydex holster 1AK Favorite semi-auto design - HK P7 "A Sig is like a lightsaber - not as clumsy or random as a Glock." Last edited by loose_holster_dan; January 30, 2014 at 04:29 PM.

January 30, 2014, 02:54 PM	#21
1hogfan83 Senior Member Join Date: August 12, 2011 Location: Fayetteville AR Posts: 420	I walked out of the store with my cz P-01 after taxes for $609. I would recommend the P-01 or its rail less brother, the PCR, maybe at a few dollars cheaper. __________________ You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe—and shudder. James 2:19 "I do not fear the man that practices ten thousand kicks one time, I fear the man that practices one kick ten thousand times." Bruce Lee

January 30, 2014, 03:44 PM	#22
dakota.potts Senior Member Join Date: February 25, 2013 Location: Keystone Heights, Florida Posts: 3,084	I was in that same situation and bought a CZ BD Police. I am very happy with it for home/car defense, range use, and hopefully competitions one day, but I doubt I will ever be able to conceal it in summer clothes. For concealed carry I would but the most compact CZ I could find, maybe the RAMI __________________ Certified Gunsmith (On Hiatus) Certified Armorer - H&K and Glock Among Others You can find my writings at my website, pottsprecision.com.

January 30, 2014, 04:18 PM	#23
TailGator Senior Member Join Date: May 8, 2009 Location: Florida Posts: 3,787	The PX4 has the advantage of being an exceptionally soft shooter, and therefore easy to learn on. The rotating barrel (full size and compact models) play a big role in that, but the ergonomics are good for most people on the PX4. I personally think it is quite a good value. My daughter has one and loves it. As others have said, though, there are quite a few quality pistols in your price range, so look at all the features, handle them, shoot what you can, and then make up your mind.

January 30, 2014, 04:26 PM	#24
IMightBeWrong Senior Member Join Date: March 22, 2009 Posts: 814	The Walther PPQ, the SIG SP2022, and the M&P are the first pistols in that range I would look at - And in that order. I was once a huge fan of Glocks. I've owned 5 of them since I got into shooting. The latter 3 were all Gen 4s made here in the US. Ever since they started building Glocks in the US, I haven't had a good experience with them. I hope they get back to their Austrian made quality levels at some point, but for right now I'm over the whole Glock phase. I took too many ejected casings to the forehead on ALL THREE of my Gen 4s to go back any time soon. YMMV. As for the XD, I just don't like them. That's just me though. :P __________________ "Intelligence is nothing more than discussing things with others. Limitless wisdom comes of this." - 山本常朝

January 30, 2014, 05:53 PM	#25
Sparks1957 Senior Member Join Date: September 4, 2011 Location: Vermont Posts: 1,552	For the money, I have a pretty high opinion of CZ pistols, in particular the P-01.