Cheapshooter,
I know and can appreciate what you're saying.
If I ever have to use a gun to protect myself, I want it to be reliable and accurate. :Those things don't often come cheap.
But after it's over and done with, I'd want it to be a "cheap" gun, 'cause I'm not likely to ever get it back.
Anything will work for range use, and all guns are fun. I'm a poor fella though, with limited resources, so I make 'em count!!
I have a "coin" bottle that originally came up from Mexico with a gallon of Jose Cuervo in it. That's my "gun fund", and I rob the ash trays, sofa cushions, and such regularly.
Daryl