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Old November 25, 2012, 08:59 PM   #1
Martowski
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What's Missing From My Lineup?

So, here I am, with a thought I might want another handgun. I'm posting in the semi auto forum as I generally lean towards semis (but am open to revolvers). Here's a little about my preferences/situation:
  • I like having "standard" calibers and have no real desire for some .50AE or other massive caliber.
  • My handguns are primarily for target shooting, but do of course serve in a home protection capacity.
  • I am looking for something that fills a niche not currently filled in my collection. So, for example, a 9mm SA/DA doesn't really fit any niche for me right now as I have plenty. Again, looking primarily for semis but am open to other ideas.
  • I live in IL, so concealed carry is not a consideration at all. While you may have the best of intentions, please do not make recommendations based on concealment or ease of carry; it's simply not a legal option in Illinois and doesn't appear that it will be for any time in the near future (and I've spoken with both IL state and federal congressmen about this in person).

The last time I did this exercise, someone posted the idea of a 9mm 1911. I liked the idea so much I went out and bought a 9mm STI Spartan. Knowing that everyone on TFL is anxious to suggest ideas, and seeing as how the last one worked out nicely, I thought I'd go back to you all for input. Here's what I have in handguns right now (by caliber):

.22LR
- Browning Buckmark Stainless Camper

.9mm Mak
- CZ-82

9mm Parabellum
- Beretta 92fs
- Beretta PX4 Storm
- CZ-75b
- Browning Hi Power Practical
- Sig SP2022
- STI Spartan
- Walther P1
- Walther PPQ

.40 S&W
- Springfield XD Stainless
- Glock 22

.45 ACP
- Kimber Classic Custom Target

.38 Special
- S&W 67

My favorites, FWIW, are the Kimber, the 92fs, and the PPQ.

I've also owned other handguns such as a Sig P226 9mm, EAA Witness 9mm, Taurus PT-99 9mm, Llama Large Frame .45, Hi Standard H-D Military .22, Walther P4, and Ruger MKII Bull Barrel .22.

So, besides concealed carry pieces or massive hand cannons, what do you feel is a huge gaping hole in my current lineup? I may not end up buying anything, but last time did based on someone's idea sparking a thought.
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Old November 25, 2012, 09:26 PM   #2
surveyor
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22 lr
model 17 S&W

CZ Kadet Kit, or if you prefer advantage arms/marvel/tactical solutions target conversion for the 1911..

45 acp
S&W 25

38 special
S&W 14

all in calibers that you have, all good for punching paper and enjoyable to shoot..

the 14/17 smiths make a good pair as they are both near same weight and balance and built on same frame..

but I like revolvers as well..

tough suggestions, since you have 1911's, hi powers, cz's, berettas, and glocks..
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Old November 25, 2012, 09:38 PM   #3
TGReaper
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I have a .45 STI Range Master that just impresses me to no end.
Also the mod.17 S&W .22 (6 in) is a favorite of mine.
The only other one that comes to mind is a 6in. Python ( I have had mine for 45 years.)
TGR
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Old November 25, 2012, 10:14 PM   #4
Warrior1256
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I collect from a defensive aspect. From my point of view you look good to me.
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Old November 25, 2012, 10:42 PM   #5
Martowski
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The .22 Kimber kit is a good suggestion; I've toyed with that idea in the past but ended up buying the Buck Mark instead. Or maybe I'll use the funds to upgrade the trigger on the CZ and the STI. Hmmmmm.
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Old November 25, 2012, 11:12 PM   #6
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A very nice collection! While not necessarily "a huge gaping hole" I think a 4" or 6" .357 mag revolver would make a nice addition to your collection. Since you don't have a Ruger in the bunch, a GP 100 would be my choice. I don't have very deep pockets and appreciate the value Ruger offers. A 686 S&W might go well with the 67 though. As already mentioned, a friend has the S&W model 17 Masterpiece and it is the sweetest shooting revolver I have ever handled. It is worth a look.
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Old November 25, 2012, 11:45 PM   #7
Edward429451
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Everyone needs at least one 44 Mag. The round is so versatile it's incredible. With 44 Specials in it, it makes a dandy HD gun and with full bore Mags in it will take any game on the continent. Ammo is everywhere and it's also a very easy cartridge to reload.
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Old November 25, 2012, 11:47 PM   #8
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Back to the basics. Uberti Cattleman in 45 lc.


Last edited by towboat-er; November 25, 2012 at 11:56 PM.
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Old November 25, 2012, 11:48 PM   #9
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For sure a 686 or GP100 4" .357
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Old November 26, 2012, 07:05 AM   #10
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Glock 36 or something in 44 mag.
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Old November 26, 2012, 07:15 AM   #11
Martowski
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Whoops! Crud, sorry, I forgot to post that I already have two .357 revolvers: a S&W 686 6" and a Ruger Blackhawk 50th anniversary.
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Old November 26, 2012, 07:37 AM   #12
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If you reload, get a .44 mag. If you don't reload, start reloading with the money you would spend on a new gun and then buy a .44 mag.

I would buy an older Smith and Wesson as they typically can be had for around 60% of the cost of a new one. Loaded down to .44 Special velocities it is a very pleasant round to shoot and super accurate in the right gun. Loaded up they are still very accurate and of course they make a dandy hunting companion or even a primary hunting arm.

I recently bought this 629-4 Classic DX with all the original accessories and the box for $600. This thing is as accurate as a rifle out to 50 yards and beyond.


A couple of months before that I found this 1959 vintage Model 29 for $600 also. Even though it has a shorter barrel than the 629, it is still a better shooter than I am.
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Old November 26, 2012, 07:51 AM   #13
Martowski
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Nice wheel guns. Never owned a .44; it's a thought. Thanks!
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Old November 26, 2012, 08:20 AM   #14
Hal
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FWIW - my POS El Cheapo near useless good for nothing inaccurate underpowered Davies .22 Derringer is without a doubt the most fun gun I own.

Loaded up with CB caps and handed to someone that just finished shooting a heavy magnum is a real grin getter..
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Old November 26, 2012, 09:22 AM   #15
darkroommike
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CZ and Kimber both make .22 kits that work on your frames, advantage is that your SD drills will be with your guns but with cheaper ammo.
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Old November 26, 2012, 09:33 AM   #16
zaknefein
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.45-
Sig P220

.380-
Beretta 85fs Nickeled (sexy)
Sig P232

Maybe some new calibers?
Sig P229 in .357sig?
FN Five-Seven?
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Old November 26, 2012, 11:40 AM   #17
Bob Wright
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In .38 Special, if you can finmd a good old Colt Officers Model Special, or officers Model Target, or Officers Model Match. These were wonderful old Colt target revolvers and extremely pleasant to shoot. They were also made in .22 L.R. and .22 WRF, though the .22 WRF mmunition is very hard to find. They were a little oversized as .22s except for paper target shooting.

And, from my standpoint, a good Single Action .22 rimfire, Ruger Single Six, Bearcat, or Uberti Stallion. Just for the fun of a .22 SA revovler. Available as convertibles with .22 WMR (Magnum) they are good squirrel guns.

Any petite .22 handgun, pistol or revolver, is always a pleasant thing to have handy.

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Old November 26, 2012, 11:50 AM   #18
weblance
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Wow... your .22 Long Rifle collection really is thin. I have 16~ .22 handguns, and thats not enough. There are so many recommendations. Ruger Single Six Convertible. Ruger SP101-22, Ruger SR22P, Bersa Thunder 22, Taurus POLY PT-22, Beretta 21a. All fun shooters, and if you are on a budget, the Taurus and the Bersa are excellent for little money
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Old November 26, 2012, 11:57 AM   #19
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Perhaps a non-polymer .40 like a Sig P229 (can get .357 Sig barrel if you like as well) or Springfield EMP if you like 1911s (concealment is not a consideration, it's just a well made gun that's fun to shoot).

On the flipside, a HK USP .45 is fun.

Otherwise a Colt Delta Elite with a 2nd .40 barrel is nice
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Old November 26, 2012, 12:25 PM   #20
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Although you stated your preference for autoloaders you also said wheel guns aren't out of the question. I didn't see a single action revolver in your collection, so that's a posibility. Either a full on Colt SAA clone like a Uberti, or Cimarron, or a more modernized variant from Ruger. A Ruger Blackhawk in 357/38 would have the advantage of adjustable sights, but a Vaquero has the more traditional look, and feel similar to a Single Action Army.
Another handgun I have found to be a lot of fun is the Thompson Center Contender. Although I have a couple of "hand cannon" sized barrels in 35 Remington, and 45-70, I also have a 22 LR match barrel, and 223 Remington. I'm not sure of the restrictive laws in The Peoples Republic of Illinois, but a Contender may also make it possible to add more caliber options without as much hassle by just buying more barrels. A warning about the T/C pistols though. Barrel wishes, and purchases tend to get a bit addictive!
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Old November 26, 2012, 12:39 PM   #21
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I'd say a .22 revolver. I don't suppose I'll ever sell my SW17. And you probably should have something in .45 COlt. S&W25 should do it...
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Old November 26, 2012, 12:53 PM   #22
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Not a single .357 in there?
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Old November 26, 2012, 01:15 PM   #23
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Off the top of my head...

To fill a collector's niche...

.22lr
Colt Woodsman

9mm
German Luger P08

.357 Magnum
Coonan Classic
Colt Python

FN Five Seven
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Old November 26, 2012, 01:27 PM   #24
larryh1108
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As some have suggested:

A steel 40S&W (CZ or EAA)
a .44 Magnum or .44 Special (CA Pug or S&W M29)
a nice 10mm 1911 would be a perfect addition to your 1911 collection.

I also don't see anything like an LCP or LCR. They are fun guns and nice to have in case he** freezes over in IL and you can carry. CC is closer than you think in IL tho it's not in the very near future. It was shot down by a narrow margin in the last vote. You will see it in your lifetime.

I know CC is not legal in IL but while mowing your lawn or working in the garage you could easily have one in your pocket (with a proper holster) for "just in case". I lived 55 years in IL. Also, with permission from your bosses at work, you can carry at work as well and be legal. I carried the LCP for 3 years at work before moving to CT. You cannot carry if you travel for work. You can only carry on the work premises.
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Old November 26, 2012, 01:42 PM   #25
mrt949
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Tc contender any caliber
Ruger MK11
Ruger revolver 357
SW MP C
Mouse Gun
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