what's out there for cheap but reliable pieces?

tahunua001 · January 14, 2018, 06:21 PM

hello all,
I have a bit of a nasty reputation as a guy constantly looking for cheap handguns that one could theoretically use as a defense piece. I do this mostly out of curiosity, but also sort of as a public service so that if I can, I can prevent someone else from wasting money on a possible bad handgun, or offer suggestions that might be overlooked due to the price point. I am looking mostly at handguns under $300 retail, used handguns are too iffy/questionable for my liking and so I never recommend them and aren't relevant to this query.

in the past I've purchased 2 Caniks, an Arcus 98DA, a SCCY CPX2, and Ruger 9E, all between the price of $180 and $300. firearms I've considered but due to the number of negative reviews and/or malfunctions witnessed, have been nixed from consideration are the Diamonband DB9FS, FMK 9C1, and Taurus millenium G2. firearms I will not consider based on personal prejudice, ergonomic incompatibility, or other reasons are anything made by Keltec or Hi point, and anything used.

with that said. anything else is fair game. what is out there that might be worth looking into. please lets avoid turning this into a "don't trust your life to cheap stuff" thread. there are plenty where that came from. if you don't like it, don't post.

TunnelRat · January 14, 2018, 06:30 PM

Walther Creed comes to mind.

For the record, I've had more issues with new guns than used guns.

jmr40 · January 14, 2018, 06:34 PM

I've been impressed with both the Ruger SR9 and LC9s. I can get the LC9s for $299 OTD. The SR9 probably won't quite make the $300 limit, but should be close.

Cheapshooter · January 14, 2018, 06:37 PM

Right now Ruger LCPs are really cheap at a lot of places. Something like $169 plus transfer fee if you don't have a FFL. I think some places are ncluding shipping.

Northof50 · January 14, 2018, 06:44 PM

Used Glock 27 or 26. 27 more so. Many buy them and realize they cannot shoot them. I picked up a Gen4 27 2 years ago - $300. Still had the bronze grease on it. Can't beat it for reliability.

jimbob86 · January 14, 2018, 07:08 PM

Zastava M70a is in your price range .... it works.

I like the original TT-33's in 7.62x25 better, but HP ammo is not cheap.

RC20 · January 14, 2018, 07:09 PM

Charter Arms Bulldog 44 special comes to mind used (don't know if they came in other calibers let alone still made.)

Not pretty but it always fired and easily good to 25 yards.

PatientWolf · January 14, 2018, 07:14 PM

For the price, I'd take a chance on the new Ruger Security 9.

tahunua001 · January 14, 2018, 07:20 PM

I've seen the security 9 but was a little underwhelmed by the features and looks. then again if they can keep them in the same ballpark as the 9e that might be an option for me to consider.

keep them coming guys... I see there are still people not reading the entire post but that's to be expected.

Cheapshooter · January 14, 2018, 07:26 PM

I know this is the semi-auto forum, but are you opposed to revolvers?

tahunua001 · January 14, 2018, 07:28 PM

I usually don't go with revolvers for several reasons but suffice it to say... no not really.

HistoryJunky · January 14, 2018, 07:51 PM

The compact version of your Arcus, the 98DAC is a good one. I owned one for a couple years. It is very reliable and quite accurate.

It takes standard BHP magazines as well.

Sent from my SM-G930R4 using Tapatalk

Targa · January 14, 2018, 08:16 PM

S&W SD9VE.

BBarn · January 14, 2018, 08:19 PM

+1

lamarw · January 14, 2018, 08:21 PM

Keep an eye out for a pre-ban Norinco 213. A decent one should go for well under two hundred.

Cheapshooter · January 14, 2018, 09:57 PM

Quote:

I usually don't go with revolvers for several reasons but suffice it to say... no not really.

Armscor, by Rock Island Armory are decent, low cost wheel guns quite a bit under your target price. The EAA Windicator 357 Magnum is a solid revolver for just a bit over $300.
Just a couple thoughts.

sigarms228 · January 14, 2018, 10:09 PM

SIG SP2022, though they are not quite the bargain they used to be.

JDBerg · January 14, 2018, 11:18 PM

For a new gun, I agree that the Walther Creed is the best value that I know of anyway. But over the holidays I saw a nice Gen3 Glock 22 at an LGS back in PA for $200, I would have bought it if not for the fact that I picked up a LNIB Sig P239 SAS Gen2 9mm for $550.00 from the same used gun case.

tahunua001 · January 14, 2018, 11:19 PM

I've actually owned the SP2022, and SR9, but they are quite a bit over the stated budget.

sigarms228 · January 14, 2018, 11:38 PM

Walther PPS M2.

https://www.classicfirearms.com/walt...pistol-2805961

Big Shrek · January 14, 2018, 11:47 PM

I've got more Star pistols than anything else. Two M45 Firestars are my main EDC's.
Made that decision based on reliability, size, and precision...I could carry my
S&W CS45 or CS40, but one thing I figured out is that in case of actually having
to have another defensive use, the pistol in question is confiscated indefinitely until
the investigation is over, and it hurts way less loosing a $200-300 Star as opposed to a
$700+ S&W, even temporarily.

Plus you never know what kinda morons are storing that pistol you just used...
and they dang sure ain't gonna clean or oil it after you just shot it & got it
all sweaty from adrenaline rush. All thing being equal, use a cheapie for EDC

That's one reason folks went bonzo over the last big S&W Shield/M&P rebate...
a solid pistol for low bucks that you won't care if it gets trashed by the local LEO's.

JDBerg · January 14, 2018, 11:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sigarms228:

Walther PPS M2.
https://www.classicfirearms.com/walt...pistol-2805961

Can’t beat a new one for $299, I wouldn’t sell mine for that price!

KyJim · January 15, 2018, 01:15 AM

The Bersa .380s are a good bet. I used to carry one quite a bit. Never had an issue with it. The Kahr CM9 is priced at $265 at Bud's right now and I often carry mine.

Big Shrek mentioned Star pistols. The Star BM (9mm) is being imported right now and can be purchased at a very reasonable price if you don't mind used. I just picked one up but haven't gotten it to the range yet. I have a Star Model B Super that is very nice.

kozak6 · January 15, 2018, 01:54 AM

Ruger is locking down the market.

The LCP/LCP2, EC9S, LC9/S, LC380, Security 9, E9, and SR series are all great choices depending on your needs.

S&W has a few options. The SD whatevers are ok-ish, Shields are good, and J-frame revolvers tend to just creep past $300 but I'd swear I've seen them for just under.

If you are feeling adventurous, Remington's new semiautos are frighteningly cheap with the current rebate. The RM380 can be had for $100-150 after rebate, and the RP9 or RP45 for a bit under $200 after rebate. The RP9 has mixed reviews, though, and I'd probably pass on the R51.

wizzamen · January 15, 2018, 07:29 AM

Quote:

Ruger is locking down the market.

Ruger is where I would go for a reliable budget pistol.

Another option are some Kahr models: CT9, CT380, Sportsman's Guide has the CW9 on clearance for $249.99 Non-members, $237.49 Members.

January 14, 2018, 06:21 PM	#1
tahunua001 Senior Member Join Date: July 21, 2011 Location: Idaho Posts: 7,839	what's out there for cheap but reliable pieces? hello all, I have a bit of a nasty reputation as a guy constantly looking for cheap handguns that one could theoretically use as a defense piece. I do this mostly out of curiosity, but also sort of as a public service so that if I can, I can prevent someone else from wasting money on a possible bad handgun, or offer suggestions that might be overlooked due to the price point. I am looking mostly at handguns under $300 retail, used handguns are too iffy/questionable for my liking and so I never recommend them and aren't relevant to this query. in the past I've purchased 2 Caniks, an Arcus 98DA, a SCCY CPX2, and Ruger 9E, all between the price of $180 and $300. firearms I've considered but due to the number of negative reviews and/or malfunctions witnessed, have been nixed from consideration are the Diamonband DB9FS, FMK 9C1, and Taurus millenium G2. firearms I will not consider based on personal prejudice, ergonomic incompatibility, or other reasons are anything made by Keltec or Hi point, and anything used. with that said. anything else is fair game. what is out there that might be worth looking into. please lets avoid turning this into a "don't trust your life to cheap stuff" thread. there are plenty where that came from. if you don't like it, don't post. __________________ ignore my complete lack of capitalization. I still have no problem correcting your grammar. I never said half the stuff people said I did-Albert Einstein You can't believe everything you read on the internet-Benjamin Franklin

January 14, 2018, 06:30 PM	#2
TunnelRat Senior Member Join Date: May 22, 2011 Posts: 12,212	Walther Creed comes to mind. For the record, I've had more issues with new guns than used guns. __________________ Know the status of your weapon Keep your muzzle oriented so that no one will be hurt if the firearm discharges Keep your finger off the trigger until you have an adequate sight picture Maintain situational awareness

January 14, 2018, 06:34 PM	#3
jmr40 Senior Member Join Date: June 15, 2008 Location: Georgia Posts: 10,809	I've been impressed with both the Ruger SR9 and LC9s. I can get the LC9s for $299 OTD. The SR9 probably won't quite make the $300 limit, but should be close. __________________ "If you're still doing things the same way you were doing them 10 years ago, you're doing it wrong" Winston Churchill

January 14, 2018, 06:37 PM	#4
Cheapshooter Senior Member Join Date: December 2, 2007 Location: Missouri Posts: 8,306	Right now Ruger LCPs are really cheap at a lot of places. Something like $169 plus transfer fee if you don't have a FFL. I think some places are ncluding shipping. __________________ Cheapshooter's rules of gun ownership #1: NEVER SELL OR TRADE ANYTHING!

January 14, 2018, 07:09 PM	#7
RC20 Senior Member Join Date: April 10, 2008 Location: Alaska Posts: 7,014	Charter Arms Bulldog 44 special comes to mind used (don't know if they came in other calibers let alone still made.) Not pretty but it always fired and easily good to 25 yards. __________________ Science and Facts are True whether you believe it or not Last edited by RC20; January 14, 2018 at 07:52 PM.

January 14, 2018, 06:44 PM	#5
Northof50 Junior member Join Date: January 5, 2018 Location: Northeast USA Posts: 232	Used Glock 27 or 26. 27 more so. Many buy them and realize they cannot shoot them. I picked up a Gen4 27 2 years ago - $300. Still had the bronze grease on it. Can't beat it for reliability.

January 14, 2018, 07:08 PM	#6
jimbob86 Junior member Join Date: October 4, 2007 Location: All the way to NEBRASKA Posts: 8,722	Zastava M70a is in your price range .... it works. I like the original TT-33's in 7.62x25 better, but HP ammo is not cheap.

January 14, 2018, 07:14 PM	#8
PatientWolf Senior Member Join Date: October 20, 2012 Location: NC Posts: 947	For the price, I'd take a chance on the new Ruger Security 9.

January 14, 2018, 07:20 PM	#9
tahunua001 Senior Member Join Date: July 21, 2011 Location: Idaho Posts: 7,839	I've seen the security 9 but was a little underwhelmed by the features and looks. then again if they can keep them in the same ballpark as the 9e that might be an option for me to consider. keep them coming guys... I see there are still people not reading the entire post but that's to be expected. __________________ ignore my complete lack of capitalization. I still have no problem correcting your grammar. I never said half the stuff people said I did-Albert Einstein You can't believe everything you read on the internet-Benjamin Franklin

January 14, 2018, 07:26 PM	#10
Cheapshooter Senior Member Join Date: December 2, 2007 Location: Missouri Posts: 8,306	I know this is the semi-auto forum, but are you opposed to revolvers? __________________ Cheapshooter's rules of gun ownership #1: NEVER SELL OR TRADE ANYTHING!

January 14, 2018, 07:28 PM	#11
tahunua001 Senior Member Join Date: July 21, 2011 Location: Idaho Posts: 7,839	I usually don't go with revolvers for several reasons but suffice it to say... no not really. __________________ ignore my complete lack of capitalization. I still have no problem correcting your grammar. I never said half the stuff people said I did-Albert Einstein You can't believe everything you read on the internet-Benjamin Franklin

January 14, 2018, 07:51 PM	#12
HistoryJunky Senior Member Join Date: April 7, 2010 Location: Freeport, IL Posts: 833	The compact version of your Arcus, the 98DAC is a good one. I owned one for a couple years. It is very reliable and quite accurate. It takes standard BHP magazines as well. Sent from my SM-G930R4 using Tapatalk

January 14, 2018, 08:16 PM	#13
Targa Senior Member Join Date: March 20, 2014 Posts: 2,084	S&W SD9VE.

January 14, 2018, 08:19 PM	#14
BBarn Senior Member Join Date: December 22, 2015 Posts: 887	+1

January 14, 2018, 08:21 PM	#15
lamarw Senior Member Join Date: April 12, 2010 Location: Lake Martin, AL Posts: 3,311	Keep an eye out for a pre-ban Norinco 213. A decent one should go for well under two hundred.

January 14, 2018, 10:09 PM	#17
sigarms228 Senior Member Join Date: October 29, 2011 Posts: 1,768	SIG SP2022, though they are not quite the bargain they used to be. __________________ “When the people find that they can vote themselves money that will herald the end of the republic.” ― Benjamin Franklin

January 14, 2018, 11:18 PM	#18
JDBerg Senior Member Join Date: May 18, 2015 Location: PA Posts: 1,835	For a new gun, I agree that the Walther Creed is the best value that I know of anyway. But over the holidays I saw a nice Gen3 Glock 22 at an LGS back in PA for $200, I would have bought it if not for the fact that I picked up a LNIB Sig P239 SAS Gen2 9mm for $550.00 from the same used gun case. __________________ Words to Live By: Before You Pray - Believe; Before You Speak - Listen; Before You Spend - Earn; Before You Write - Think; Before You Quit - Try; Before You Die - Live

January 14, 2018, 11:19 PM	#19
tahunua001 Senior Member Join Date: July 21, 2011 Location: Idaho Posts: 7,839	I've actually owned the SP2022, and SR9, but they are quite a bit over the stated budget. __________________ ignore my complete lack of capitalization. I still have no problem correcting your grammar. I never said half the stuff people said I did-Albert Einstein You can't believe everything you read on the internet-Benjamin Franklin

January 14, 2018, 11:38 PM	#20
sigarms228 Senior Member Join Date: October 29, 2011 Posts: 1,768	Walther PPS M2. https://www.classicfirearms.com/walt...pistol-2805961 __________________ “When the people find that they can vote themselves money that will herald the end of the republic.” ― Benjamin Franklin

January 14, 2018, 11:47 PM	#21
Big Shrek Senior Member Join Date: August 6, 2009 Location: NorthWest Florida Posts: 1,358	I've got more Star pistols than anything else. Two M45 Firestars are my main EDC's. Made that decision based on reliability, size, and precision...I could carry my S&W CS45 or CS40, but one thing I figured out is that in case of actually having to have another defensive use, the pistol in question is confiscated indefinitely until the investigation is over, and it hurts way less loosing a $200-300 Star as opposed to a $700+ S&W, even temporarily. Plus you never know what kinda morons are storing that pistol you just used... and they dang sure ain't gonna clean or oil it after you just shot it & got it all sweaty from adrenaline rush. All thing being equal, use a cheapie for EDC That's one reason folks went bonzo over the last big S&W Shield/M&P rebate... a solid pistol for low bucks that you won't care if it gets trashed by the local LEO's. __________________ Marlin Specialist Calico Specialist A gun should be a tool in the hands of a deadly weapon, not a deadly weapon in the hands of a tool. Last edited by Big Shrek; January 14, 2018 at 11:57 PM.

January 15, 2018, 01:15 AM	#23
KyJim Senior Member Join Date: July 26, 2005 Location: The Bluegrass Posts: 9,142	The Bersa .380s are a good bet. I used to carry one quite a bit. Never had an issue with it. The Kahr CM9 is priced at $265 at Bud's right now and I often carry mine. Big Shrek mentioned Star pistols. The Star BM (9mm) is being imported right now and can be purchased at a very reasonable price if you don't mind used. I just picked one up but haven't gotten it to the range yet. I have a Star Model B Super that is very nice.

January 15, 2018, 01:54 AM	#24
kozak6 Senior Member Join Date: June 16, 2005 Location: AZ Posts: 3,113	Ruger is locking down the market. The LCP/LCP2, EC9S, LC9/S, LC380, Security 9, E9, and SR series are all great choices depending on your needs. S&W has a few options. The SD whatevers are ok-ish, Shields are good, and J-frame revolvers tend to just creep past $300 but I'd swear I've seen them for just under. If you are feeling adventurous, Remington's new semiautos are frighteningly cheap with the current rebate. The RM380 can be had for $100-150 after rebate, and the RP9 or RP45 for a bit under $200 after rebate. The RP9 has mixed reviews, though, and I'd probably pass on the R51.