Posted on 04/26/2010 7:56:18 AM PDT by SnakeDoctor
Although I own a couple of guns, they are mostly heirlooms or antiques, and don't get much use. I am in the market for a good all-purpose defensive handgun -- for home defense, target practice, concealed carry, and general training. I don't have a CHL at this point, but want to begin training to get one. I have had several models recommended to me -- HK USP Compact (45 or 9mm), Kimber 1911, Walther P99, Sig Sauer P229, Glock 19.
I went out shopping a bit this weekend at a local dealer. I was inclined to go with the Barrett 50 cal, but it isn't quite concealable enough (haha). Based on recommendations and reviews, I am leaning toward the HK USP at this point (though I am undecided on whether to go for the 9mm or the 45). From what I have heard, the HK USP is pretty-well the top-of-the-line for defensive handguns. The dealer also pointed me toward some new HK models that are supposedly upgrades on the USP -- the HK45 (the 45 version) and HK P30 (the 9mm version).
So, for FR gun enthusiasts -- what are your recommendations? Is the USP the appropriate choice for a general all-purpose handgun? Is it an appropriate weapon for beginning a training program? Would the Sig, Glock, Kimber, Walther or another model be a better choice? Would you recommend going with a 9mm or 45? And, for those that have tested both the USP and the HK45 or HK P30 ... are the upgrades on the newer models worth the additional $200-$300 price tag?
Thanks.
SnakeDoc
You’ll get no opinions on this forum.....
They're much easier to learn to shoot well IMO and the money you save over a new auto-loader can be put into ammunition, training, and range time.
Just a thought.
I love my Sig P239/9 in a Milt Sparks Versa Max II.
I have a question.
Anyone on the list collect antique handguns?
For the same price as a USP, you could carry five Hi-Point C9’s and at least some of them are bound to work at any given time.
:^)
LOL--in rare cases, someone will make fun of you for not being an expert . . . which leads to the question: if one is an expert already, why would he ask the question?
I agree with Lurker. The Springfield XD is a much better gun to me. It really boils down to testing each gun and seeing which one is most comfortable for you to hold. The Glock and HK’s are great guns but I liked the feel of the Springfield over both.
I’m disinclined to buy I gun that would be of better use when thrown at an intruder.
Haha.
SnakeDoc
# Models available = # of opinions you’ll get :)
My 2 pennies - if you ever plan to carry this on a daily basis, make sure its compact enough (and light) to comfortably wear. There are alt of Clint Eastwoods out there who will steer you towards large caliber...but the 9mm have enough energy to be perfectly adequate.
Glock for carry and 12 gauge tactical pump for home defense.
Small pocket nines work best for concealed carry, not so good for target and hunting.
If you want a CCW, then concealment and weight should be top consideration. I think a full nine is the minimum defense weapon, ammo is cheap(er) and easy to find around here.
If your local range has a try before you buy, then that should be your first stop. I find a Glock 19 to be a fine compromise, cheap, and quite re-salable if you don’t like it. I personally carry a Glock 26, the wife goes with the Glock 19. I can drop my 26 in my jeans pocket and you can’t tell it’s there. Both are hard use serviceable.
Not really a Glock fan boy, my all time favorite is a 1911, but cocked and locked doesn’t work for most concealed carry for me. I open carry that.
I’m an HK USP40 owner with no regrets.
Get what you comfortable with
Just get a gun that fits your hand and feels right.
Kimber is great in .45. Love it and the feel. Shoot it all day long. Requires a tool to break down. Don’t care, just love the darn thing.
USP is also terrific and breaks like a traditional pistol. No tools.
As for accessories, it’s a personal thing.
Would recommend a Serpa Holster and place a piece of stairway strip on the release mechanism for greater feed back on your trigger finger.
Go to your local range and rent the Kimber Tac II and the USP. See which one you like.
I would tell you more but I have no recent experience with guns, due to a boating accident.
the pissin match on .45 vs 9mm begins in 3...2...1
Antique Handguns Horst Held
interested in collectible small arms: derringer, pistol, revolver, engraved, cased,
odd system, early self-loading = semi-automatic,
self-employed since 1965
***
My favorite antique handgun site and I would love to have most of the weapons(wish).
My favorite on the site is the first revolver, it was a flint lock.
I'm not sure why the poster is not looking into a .40 cal. I myself think it's the perfect bridge caliber between the .9MM and .45. Better impact than the .9MM and very close to the .45.
I figure I’ll have to buy a second gun for some carry situations ... I live in Houston and thus can’t bundle up much. I’m inclined toward the Wather PPK for carrying in hot weather — but want something with a little more kick for training.
The HK Compact line seems small enough to carry between September and April around here. I’ll probably still need a summer gun, though.
SnakeDoc
Have you handled the P30 or the HK45(not to be confused with the HK45C)? The grips are fantastic. I own a P30. I’ve run 1500 or so rounds through it in the past year and never had a failure of any sort. All sorts of different brands of ammo as well.
As for concealment, they’re all pretty big but HKS great guns.
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