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Potentially buying my first hand gun

UVA_Guy81

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I was wondering if anyone had suggestions since I'm a newbie. From what I've seen and held at gun shows, the ones I liked are Glocks, Sigs and a Beretta M9A3. Does anyone here have any possible suggestions, preferably for a 9mm? I'm looking at trying to keep it around $500 give or take.
 

bamabear82

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I was wondering if anyone had suggestions since I'm a newbie. From what I've seen and held at gun shows, the ones I liked are Glocks, Sigs and a Beretta M9A3. Does anyone here have any possible suggestions, preferably for a 9mm? I'm looking at trying to keep it around $500 give or take.
After like 2,000+ rds, I still get a boner for my S&W Shield 9mm. Here's a fairly recent thread about such a sidearm...
S&W Shield
 

Podunkparte

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Lots of good deals out there right now. Personally I love my Sig P320C. The A3 will most likely be above your budget but you might find an A1 out there for around $550. I'd suggest checking out the Beretta APX too.
 

The Future Modal

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Would this be for concealed carry?
 

TheDayMan

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Go to a local range (that will rent by caliber), tell them your price range, try everything they have in said price range, buy the one you like the best.
 

AHFox

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Go to a local range (that will rent by caliber), tell them your price range, try everything they have in said price range, buy the one you like the best.

I second this.

However just my thoughts since it your 1st hand gun I would go with a full size hand gun. You enjoy to shoot it more then the compacts.
 
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Cz 75

Probably not your best ccw, but one of the best handguns made. It's a sa/da pistol, a little on the heavy side, but accurate as the day is long and it's a low recoil shooter.
 

Bridgeburner

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I always default my recommendations to the Glock 19 unless there is a reason not to go that route. They work and they work well. Parts are easy and cheap. Support is through the roof.

If you want something smaller the Shield 9MM is a great option as has been said above.

The big thing is getting range time. Most guns now are roughly equal. They are reliable and accurate. It's up to you to learn to use it. Get one, any one, and rock on.
 

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Make sure you listen to Skynyrd's "Saturday Night Special" first
 

The Future Modal

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Yeah, I'd get my concealed carry for it.

Before you decide, I'd suggest trying out a few of the dedicated CCW revolvers, such as the Smith & Wesson J-frames or the Ruger LCR series. Most people who initially dislike snubbies do so based on the short grip, so if one is available try the extended grip versions (the ones where your pinky finger has a finger slot).
 

RobBase

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I was wondering if anyone had suggestions since I'm a newbie. From what I've seen and held at gun shows, the ones I liked are Glocks, Sigs and a Beretta M9A3. Does anyone here have any possible suggestions, preferably for a 9mm? I'm looking at trying to keep it around $500 give or take.

Join the NRA first. They will be happy to help you with everything, including helping you locate stores, training/classes, and gun ranges in your area. They are extremely helpful.
 

fknhippie

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edhochuliposterfi8.jpg
 

Beaker

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What it lacks in stopping power it makes up for in fun colors!
 

Podunkparte

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Join the NRA first. They will be happy to help you with everything, including helping you locate stores, training/classes, and gun ranges in your area. They are extremely helpful.

Google does this for free
 

MAIZEandBLUE09

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After like 2,000+ rds, I still get a boner for my S&W Shield 9mm. Here's a fairly recent thread about such a sidearm...
S&W Shield
And they have the 2nd Gen out now, which looks pretty cool. I've been toying with the idea of selling my cheap Ruger P95 and using that towards a .40 Shield. There's always tons of great deals offered on them as well.
 
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