9mm Gun

CalebTroy · April 20, 2009, 02:57 PM

I'm in the process of decided what 9mm handgun to purchase. It will mainly be for home defense, but for occasional car carrying as well. Not likely to be used often on my person. I want something that is reliable and accurate. Could some one give me some thoughts on what guns may be the best for a beginner in this area? And what a good price range is for the suggested type of 9mm? Thanks.

Unbanded · April 20, 2009, 03:00 PM

I would suggest you check out the Bersa 9mm's. They range from 280-350 and come with a lifetime warranty. They can be carried easily as well if you change your mind down the road.

Keltyke · April 20, 2009, 03:32 PM

Steyr M9-A1. Tight, reliable, accurate, VERY ergonomic.

ar15chase · April 20, 2009, 03:35 PM

You cant go wrong with a Ruger. I wish I still had my P-89, it was the first hand-gun I had. I have a Sigma 9mm now, great gun for the buck.

00max00 · April 20, 2009, 04:10 PM

You can't go wrong with a Beretta 92 FS. Great gun, never had a single malfunction.

jaydubya · April 20, 2009, 04:19 PM

In that caliber there are many to choose from. Mine is a Browning Hi Power, which I happily recommend to you -- if you can find one!

I suggest you find a range that rents pistols, and check out a bunch of them. If I had to buy a new handgun, I would do that: try and buy.

Cordially, Jack

WeedWacker · April 20, 2009, 04:40 PM

lol! Look at the can of worms you opened troy!

Everyone and their dog has a favorite 9mm. Each one has pros and cons. Some are more reliable than others, some easier to handle, it goes on and on.

You state reliable and accurate in the same sentence. This describes "Glock."

However you might have difficulty using it as a beginner since the grip angle takes some getting used to. However it is not a bad choice.

I could also recommend any number of external hammer pistols but usually a DA/SA pistol such as a Beretta M92f may take some getting used to a long pull followed by the short single action pull. So again we come back to the striker fired pistols like Glock and XD's or even the Kahr's.

A good ole M1911 SA only or a Sig P220R could be a good choice but would be required to be carried locked cocked and ready to rock. Not something I would expect a beginner to be comfortable with although it would be more comfortable than the Glock with its trigger-safety-is-the-only-safety setup.

Personally I would recommend a Ruger SP101 with a 3" barrel for what you describe. Fires either the .357 magnum or .38 special which is no wimp for SD purposes. If you are dead set on 9mm due to availability or somthing you can find 9mm revolvers, they are just hard to get.

So to get you started, look at these (this is in my order of suggestion)

1) Ruger SP101 (.38spl/.357 mag) $455
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/70240

2) Glock 19 (9mm) $547
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/13710
(out of stock)

3) XD9 (9mm) $481
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/32473

4) M1911 (.45ACP) or Sig P220R (.45ACP)

Sig: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/a...=P220R&x=0&y=0

M1911: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/55286

5) Beretta (9mm) $549 or Bersa (9mm) $327

Beretta: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/39954

Bersa: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/34017

Notes:

M1911 is a widely used design and many companies make the same model. The original was Colt but now Springfield, Taurus, Para Ordinance, Kimber, etc. all make a 1911 model pistol

I used Buds Gun Shop as an example of prices, I'm sure other members could give you exact blue book prices.

ETA: ALWAYS do research on the model you are wanting to buy. Price can often indicate quality of materials used, although from what I understand Bersa makes a fine handgun. Still research, research, research before you buy.

FGColonel · April 20, 2009, 05:06 PM

I have a Styre that I thought was great. But I just purchased a FNP9 that I would reccomendend over the Styre.

rsxr22 · April 20, 2009, 05:42 PM

if you are looking for home defense and carrying in your vehicle i would look at a high capacity polymer framed gun. They are reliable and function flawlessly out of the box. Any brand stated will do: glock, springfield xd, smith and wesson m&p, sig 2022, hk usp9mm, just to name a few they range from $500 new up to around 800 for the hk. Dont cheat yourself on a hd gun, it could be the determining factor in survival and dont want to risk it w/ a gun that you do not fully trust

bbrian · April 20, 2009, 06:44 PM

Beretta 92 FS. Reliable, accurate, high capacity, well made.

It's bigger than most 9mm, but since you won't be carrying it on your person, that's not an issue. I got one for around $600 if I remember correctly.

txstang84 · April 20, 2009, 06:44 PM

I don't think there's one recommendation on here that I wouldn't also recommend. There are just too darned many good 9mm pistols available that would fit your criteria. But, I'll put a plug in for Beretta 92 (or Taurus PT92), Glock 19, Ruger SR9, Sig, or S&W M&P, or Sigma...I've shot all but the M&P, and the SR9, but they all have their ups and downs. Do your research, find out what fits you-not someone else-what you like, and what you will be happy to own. Don't make compromises you can't handle...

Whoever said to go to a local range and try out a couple for rent-they're correct. Wouldn't hurt to "learn up" about safety either before or concurrent to purchasing your own firearm.

Good luck and Welcome to The Firing Line!

comn-cents · April 20, 2009, 06:48 PM

Bang for the buck ruger p89. i'm with AR15CHASE still wish I had mine.
Still plenty of good hi caps around for cheap

txstang84 · April 20, 2009, 06:48 PM

Oh-there will likely be someone on here who will chime in and put in a plug for a .22 pistol-take that thought into consideration if you can. .22's are way cheaper to operate and can allow you to better your skills...otherwise, I wish you all the best.

Have some good common sense, and if a comment on here doesn't pass the sniff test with you, its likely not to pass anyone else on here...sometimes commentary can get rather heated too; so, just beware of that potential

Alamocdc · April 20, 2009, 06:52 PM

Cabela's, Academy and many other places have lowered the prices on Sig P2022's to $499 in the last few weeks. GOt one for the wife for her birthday a few weeks ago and she's slready put about 150 rounds through it. Very accurate and a smooth shooter right out of the box. Best 9mm for the money in my book, hands down. I've not read or heard anything negative about it.

Kermit · April 20, 2009, 07:09 PM

As an omni-gun, I'd recommend something like the Glock 34. The longer sight radius will come in handy when you're shooting

varoadking · April 20, 2009, 07:16 PM

Glock 17...

djohn · April 20, 2009, 07:25 PM

Another good bang for the buck ( Kahr CW 9) Accurate,light and So concealable and can be had for around $ 400.00 (New)

joegator · April 20, 2009, 07:55 PM

Glock 19.

RT · April 20, 2009, 08:01 PM

Lashlarue · April 20, 2009, 11:21 PM

I have shot about a dozen different 9's.Sorry Glock fans but the 17 was not a natural pointer for me, could never get comfortable.Ive had a Kel-tec P-11 for 16 years, even got used to the horrible heavy trigger pull, and got reasonably accurate with it.If you get in a real gunfight, you need a gun that fits your hand and is a natural pointer.My latest is a Taurus 24/7 Pro Ds and it fills the bill quite nicely. I can draw or just pick it up and point and fire almost as accurately as taking the time to line up the sights.And that second or fraction there of, could be the difference between being dead or alive.that gun fits me.There are lots of good 9's available, go to a range that rents guns and try out as many as you can. One or possibly more will tickle your fancy.Ive shot $800 guns that I absolutely hated. I was issued a 1911 in the AF, hated it, couldn't hit the side a barn from the inside.Had Firestar 45 that I loved. Shot a buddies older HK, never got comfortable squeezecocking.My preference on other features is the ability to carry with one in the chamber and the safety on. Mine has a decocker which I'll probably never use.Mine has a key lock, I unlocked it when I took it out of the case, doubt I'll ever lock it, ever.The loaded chamber indicator is ok, as is striker cocked indicator.Most of the new guns have these features as more and more states are requiring them.Surprized there are so few with magazine disconnect safeties as about half dozen states are on the virge of passing laws requiring them.

Philo_Beddoe · April 20, 2009, 11:42 PM

Ruger P95 is the best deal on the market imo.

$350 bucks, reliable and accurate.

Warchild · April 21, 2009, 07:20 AM

Glock 19... very versatile, perfect blend of size, function, concealable, reliable, and accurate.

Dave Krobath · April 21, 2009, 07:24 AM

Bersa/Firestorm mini 9 good for both carry and HD and it's also fun as a range gun. Just plain fun to shoot. Mine has been 100% from day one with about 1000 rounds thru it now. They go in the $300.00 range when you can find one.

Father Time · April 21, 2009, 07:42 AM

Browning Hi-Power
CZ-75
Beretta 92

In that order but if you don't care for them then check out...

Glock 17/19
Springfield XD
Ruger P89/95/SR9

All are very afordable and a quality, TRUSTWORTHY firearm.

spyderdude · April 21, 2009, 08:43 AM

Since concealment is not a deciding factor,

Glock 17, 34, 17L
Beretta M9/92FS
Springfield Armory XD9 Service or Tactical or the new XDm9
CZ-75 (I have no experience with CZ, but everything I heard has been great)
Browning Hi-Power (again no experience but good things have been said)

It just comes down to what feels good to you, there are tons of 9mm pistols out there, and you are only limited by your budget and what feels good in your hands.

April 20, 2009, 02:57 PM	#1
CalebTroy Junior Member Join Date: April 18, 2009 Posts: 1	9mm Gun I'm in the process of decided what 9mm handgun to purchase. It will mainly be for home defense, but for occasional car carrying as well. Not likely to be used often on my person. I want something that is reliable and accurate. Could some one give me some thoughts on what guns may be the best for a beginner in this area? And what a good price range is for the suggested type of 9mm? Thanks.

April 20, 2009, 04:40 PM	#7
WeedWacker Senior Member Join Date: December 13, 2006 Location: Body: Clarkston, Washington. Soul: LaCrosse, Wisconsin Posts: 1,591	lol! Look at the can of worms you opened troy! Everyone and their dog has a favorite 9mm. Each one has pros and cons. Some are more reliable than others, some easier to handle, it goes on and on. You state reliable and accurate in the same sentence. This describes "Glock." However you might have difficulty using it as a beginner since the grip angle takes some getting used to. However it is not a bad choice. I could also recommend any number of external hammer pistols but usually a DA/SA pistol such as a Beretta M92f may take some getting used to a long pull followed by the short single action pull. So again we come back to the striker fired pistols like Glock and XD's or even the Kahr's. A good ole M1911 SA only or a Sig P220R could be a good choice but would be required to be carried locked cocked and ready to rock. Not something I would expect a beginner to be comfortable with although it would be more comfortable than the Glock with its trigger-safety-is-the-only-safety setup. Personally I would recommend a Ruger SP101 with a 3" barrel for what you describe. Fires either the .357 magnum or .38 special which is no wimp for SD purposes. If you are dead set on 9mm due to availability or somthing you can find 9mm revolvers, they are just hard to get. So to get you started, look at these (this is in my order of suggestion) 1) Ruger SP101 (.38spl/.357 mag) $455 http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/70240 2) Glock 19 (9mm) $547 http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/13710 (out of stock) 3) XD9 (9mm) $481 http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/32473 4) M1911 (.45ACP) or Sig P220R (.45ACP) Sig: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/a...=P220R&x=0&y=0 M1911: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/55286 5) Beretta (9mm) $549 or Bersa (9mm) $327 Beretta: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/39954 Bersa: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/34017 Notes: M1911 is a widely used design and many companies make the same model. The original was Colt but now Springfield, Taurus, Para Ordinance, Kimber, etc. all make a 1911 model pistol I used Buds Gun Shop as an example of prices, I'm sure other members could give you exact blue book prices. ETA: ALWAYS do research on the model you are wanting to buy. Price can often indicate quality of materials used, although from what I understand Bersa makes a fine handgun. Still research, research, research before you buy. __________________ - Jon Disequilibrium facilitates accommodation. 9mm vs .45 ACP? The answer is .429

April 20, 2009, 03:00 PM	#2
Unbanded Member Join Date: March 29, 2009 Posts: 30	I would suggest you check out the Bersa 9mm's. They range from 280-350 and come with a lifetime warranty. They can be carried easily as well if you change your mind down the road.

April 20, 2009, 03:32 PM	#3
Keltyke Junior member Join Date: April 6, 2008 Location: Spartanburg, SC Posts: 2,933	Steyr M9-A1. Tight, reliable, accurate, VERY ergonomic.

April 20, 2009, 03:35 PM	#4
ar15chase Senior Member Join Date: February 20, 2009 Location: Shallowater, Texas Posts: 444	You cant go wrong with a Ruger. I wish I still had my P-89, it was the first hand-gun I had. I have a Sigma 9mm now, great gun for the buck.

April 20, 2009, 04:10 PM	#5
00max00 Member Join Date: December 29, 2008 Posts: 33	You can't go wrong with a Beretta 92 FS. Great gun, never had a single malfunction.

April 20, 2009, 04:19 PM	#6
jaydubya Senior Member Join Date: April 1, 2006 Location: Sandy Eggo Posts: 430	In that caliber there are many to choose from. Mine is a Browning Hi Power, which I happily recommend to you -- if you can find one! I suggest you find a range that rents pistols, and check out a bunch of them. If I had to buy a new handgun, I would do that: try and buy. Cordially, Jack

April 20, 2009, 05:06 PM	#8
FGColonel Member Join Date: February 25, 2009 Location: Kentucky Posts: 23	I have a Styre that I thought was great. But I just purchased a FNP9 that I would reccomendend over the Styre.

April 20, 2009, 05:42 PM	#9
rsxr22 Senior Member Join Date: January 24, 2009 Location: Youngstown, OH Posts: 1,825	if you are looking for home defense and carrying in your vehicle i would look at a high capacity polymer framed gun. They are reliable and function flawlessly out of the box. Any brand stated will do: glock, springfield xd, smith and wesson m&p, sig 2022, hk usp9mm, just to name a few they range from $500 new up to around 800 for the hk. Dont cheat yourself on a hd gun, it could be the determining factor in survival and dont want to risk it w/ a gun that you do not fully trust

April 20, 2009, 06:44 PM	#10
bbrian Senior Member Join Date: May 27, 2007 Posts: 183	Beretta 92 FS. Reliable, accurate, high capacity, well made. It's bigger than most 9mm, but since you won't be carrying it on your person, that's not an issue. I got one for around $600 if I remember correctly.

April 20, 2009, 06:44 PM	#11
txstang84 Senior Member Join Date: April 11, 2009 Location: The Lone Star State Posts: 636	I don't think there's one recommendation on here that I wouldn't also recommend. There are just too darned many good 9mm pistols available that would fit your criteria. But, I'll put a plug in for Beretta 92 (or Taurus PT92), Glock 19, Ruger SR9, Sig, or S&W M&P, or Sigma...I've shot all but the M&P, and the SR9, but they all have their ups and downs. Do your research, find out what fits you-not someone else-what you like, and what you will be happy to own. Don't make compromises you can't handle... Whoever said to go to a local range and try out a couple for rent-they're correct. Wouldn't hurt to "learn up" about safety either before or concurrent to purchasing your own firearm. Good luck and Welcome to The Firing Line!

April 20, 2009, 06:48 PM	#12
comn-cents Senior Member Join Date: June 18, 2008 Location: Pac.N.W. Posts: 1,804	Bang for the buck ruger p89. i'm with AR15CHASE still wish I had mine. Still plenty of good hi caps around for cheap

April 20, 2009, 06:52 PM	#14
Alamocdc Member Join Date: March 10, 2009 Location: The Great State of Texas Posts: 66	Cabela's, Academy and many other places have lowered the prices on Sig P2022's to $499 in the last few weeks. GOt one for the wife for her birthday a few weeks ago and she's slready put about 150 rounds through it. Very accurate and a smooth shooter right out of the box. Best 9mm for the money in my book, hands down. I've not read or heard anything negative about it.

April 20, 2009, 07:09 PM	#15
Kermit Senior Member Join Date: February 6, 2001 Location: California Posts: 3,020	As an omni-gun, I'd recommend something like the Glock 34. The longer sight radius will come in handy when you're shooting

April 20, 2009, 07:16 PM	#16
varoadking Senior Member Join Date: September 5, 2004 Location: Dixie Posts: 2,315	Glock 17...

April 20, 2009, 07:25 PM	#17
djohn Senior Member Join Date: March 11, 2009 Location: CT Posts: 507	Another good bang for the buck ( Kahr CW 9) Accurate,light and So concealable and can be had for around $ 400.00 (New)

April 20, 2009, 07:55 PM	#18
joegator Senior Member Join Date: April 11, 2008 Location: Florida Posts: 537	Glock 19.

April 20, 2009, 08:01 PM	#19
RT Senior Member Join Date: September 9, 2000 Location: San Antonio, TX Posts: 2,194

April 20, 2009, 11:21 PM	#20
Lashlarue Senior Member Join Date: September 26, 2008 Posts: 533	I have shot about a dozen different 9's.Sorry Glock fans but the 17 was not a natural pointer for me, could never get comfortable.Ive had a Kel-tec P-11 for 16 years, even got used to the horrible heavy trigger pull, and got reasonably accurate with it.If you get in a real gunfight, you need a gun that fits your hand and is a natural pointer.My latest is a Taurus 24/7 Pro Ds and it fills the bill quite nicely. I can draw or just pick it up and point and fire almost as accurately as taking the time to line up the sights.And that second or fraction there of, could be the difference between being dead or alive.that gun fits me.There are lots of good 9's available, go to a range that rents guns and try out as many as you can. One or possibly more will tickle your fancy.Ive shot $800 guns that I absolutely hated. I was issued a 1911 in the AF, hated it, couldn't hit the side a barn from the inside.Had Firestar 45 that I loved. Shot a buddies older HK, never got comfortable squeezecocking.My preference on other features is the ability to carry with one in the chamber and the safety on. Mine has a decocker which I'll probably never use.Mine has a key lock, I unlocked it when I took it out of the case, doubt I'll ever lock it, ever.The loaded chamber indicator is ok, as is striker cocked indicator.Most of the new guns have these features as more and more states are requiring them.Surprized there are so few with magazine disconnect safeties as about half dozen states are on the virge of passing laws requiring them.

April 20, 2009, 11:42 PM	#21
Philo_Beddoe Multiply registered, multiply banned troll. Join Date: March 3, 2008 Posts: 239	Ruger P95 is the best deal on the market imo. $350 bucks, reliable and accurate.

April 21, 2009, 07:20 AM	#22
Warchild Senior Member Join Date: March 4, 2009 Posts: 453	Glock 19... very versatile, perfect blend of size, function, concealable, reliable, and accurate.

April 21, 2009, 07:24 AM	#23
Dave Krobath Member Join Date: February 19, 2009 Location: Houston TX Posts: 96	Bersa/Firestorm mini 9 good for both carry and HD and it's also fun as a range gun. Just plain fun to shoot. Mine has been 100% from day one with about 1000 rounds thru it now. They go in the $300.00 range when you can find one.

April 21, 2009, 07:42 AM	#24
Father Time Senior Member Join Date: November 21, 2007 Posts: 637	Browning Hi-Power CZ-75 Beretta 92 In that order but if you don't care for them then check out... Glock 17/19 Springfield XD Ruger P89/95/SR9 All are very afordable and a quality, TRUSTWORTHY firearm.

April 21, 2009, 08:43 AM	#25
spyderdude Senior Member Join Date: March 6, 2006 Posts: 579	Since concealment is not a deciding factor, Glock 17, 34, 17L Beretta M9/92FS Springfield Armory XD9 Service or Tactical or the new XDm9 CZ-75 (I have no experience with CZ, but everything I heard has been great) Browning Hi-Power (again no experience but good things have been said) It just comes down to what feels good to you, there are tons of 9mm pistols out there, and you are only limited by your budget and what feels good in your hands.