Of those choices, the Sig.
I really like the Sig, but that’s probably the exact same bias you’ve already encountered.
The others are marginal in quality.
Were I purchasing a gun for home defense, I would buy a shotgun.
Safer, more intimidating, more effective.
And, if you have to, you can hit what you aim at, even with a pulse of 110, adrenalin overload and a shaky hand. And once hit, your target is incapacitated.
I’m 5’5 weigh around 110 and carry a Beretta Tomcat in .32 caliber. I use Glaser Safeties. It’s a small gun but packs a wallop .... my instructor says you don’t get into a shooting match and you don’t engage over ten feet ... you might consider that ... I’ve fired a Springfield model 1911A1 in .45 caliber and even with my small frame I can control it but the Beretta is the best for me ....
If you buy a revolver that is reasonably priced, buy a .357 magnum that you can shoot .38 specials with, for cost reduction at the range. Load the revolver with either .38 special +P jacketed hollow points or .357 jacketed hollow points, for stopping power as Home Defense rounds. But you would be better off to buy a 20 gage pump with short (18 1/2 inches) barrel and load with #3 buckshot, for home defense. You can buy a Maverick 88 (Mossberg line) 20 gage and a Rossi .357 revolver for around $500, total.
As a woman I really like my Lady Smith 38 . I also like the Sig.
I assume you’re looking at 9mm. Go with the SIG. BUT for defense, see if it handles either +P or +P+ ammo.
You might also take a look at the Springfield Armory XD. If you live in a CIVILIZED state [NOT NY, which bans high capacity mags]. The Springfield XDM has a match barrel, and holds 19 + 1 in 9mm.
What ever you buy, don’t forget the cost of a couple boxes of ammunition. Then practice practice practice till you are a good shot. At a MINIMUM, you should be able to cover a set of 5 shots (rapid fire <10 sec) at 7 to 10 yard with your weapon. If not, practice more.
bump for later read...I’m in the market to buy at least one pistol/revolver
You should buy a model 640 S&W (train with .38spl, load with .357 magnum)
The only reason to buy a handgun for self defense is 1) concealability, 2) fight your way to your shotgun.
BTW...my GF just bought a Model 642 today w/o laser......she wants it for concealed carry since the murder of our local new anchor Anne Pressly.
Hope this helps!
SIG, Beretta, Taurus, Glock, in that order, IMHO. Forget the Bersa.
I concur with the Sig.
There is nothing wrong with the lowly Pt92 though.
My best advice though, for home defense is a shotgun.
Pistols are for personal carry defense and in that instance, I recommend the lowly Makarov
Also, if you just want a home defense and occasional shooting gun, consider a used police trade-in S&W in .357. You can practise with .38 Special ammo.
Avoid the Taurus, Ruger.
The Bersa’s are cheap but functional
The others are quality weapons
Others have already and will recoomend revolvers and training/practice-
Listen to them
I like the 9mm slide action rather than a revolver. The slide absorbs the shock better in my opinion. It is a matter of personal choice.
Vic We our fond of the ruger 89 & 90 series in the 9mm. Slide action with a large clip (15 rounds).
Prices are going up already so it is best not to put it off.
Raurus Revolvers are decent weapons
Your Mileage may vary on the Taurs Autos.
if you are interested in both target and defense work, your choices are:
1. colt government model.
2. colt covernment model
3. colt government model
and for improved range work:
colt government model with after-market sights.
remember this: simple is best in a defense situation.
you want a hose that squirts, you don’t want to mess with spray nozzles and pressure washers. You just want a hose that squirts everytime