Hi-point Firearms - opinions?

http://www.hi-pointfirearms.com ^ | 2-5-07 | Self

[Bat_Chemist]

So I'm looking over the web for a new handgun (the only one we own is my wife's 9-shot .22, a pretty little piece, but not much for home defense). I came across the website for Hipoint firearms, makers of "polymer frame" handguns, and I thought, "Wouldn't that be really unstable and fragile?" I wanted to get the opinions of the "strangers I trust" here at FR before I actually go drop a couple hundred there. And that's the other thing...these guns are American made and inexpensive. Are they too good to be true?

[aviator]

The point and click revolver interface is superb for a new shooter. A 357 revolver will also shoot .38 special cartridges, which are a little softer in recoil.

Practice a two handed shooting grip with the gun held close to your stomach; not arms extended out. It keeps the gun more secure and also prevents you from shooting your extended left hand with the gun in your right hand.....

[processing please hold]

The pistols are heavy, ungainly weapons with a blowback design. It means that the recoil can be quite uncomfortable.

Maybe if the hand holding it belongs to a nancee boy.

[PzLdr]

[1]A shotgun with an 18" barrel isn't overly long.

[2]. Shooting accurately in the dark isn't easy, especially for someone who doesn't practice low light shooting.

[3] A shotgun with #4 shot will cover a larger area than a bullet - probably won't go through walls- and is more user friendly for someone who doesn't shoot a lot than a handgun.

[4] Most experts I read don't recommend you go looking for an intruder. they suggest you 'hole up' in a defensive position, and call 911. No loss of defensive ability with a shotgun. If you do, stay away [as far as practicable] from corners, etc., where a perp can grab the gun.

[5] Racking a pump shotgun has a much impressive psychological effect than cocking a handgun.

[5] Most gun writers recommend a shotgun as the best alternative for home defense.
[4]

[processing please hold]

Backup home is a S&W 38 special in a cigar box in my back closet.

I keep mine under my mattress. :-)

[steve86]

I agree, lots of good info.

Haven't fired mine yet, but it sounds like seating the cartridges in the magazine properly with the first tilted up solves virtually all the problems.

Sure glad I read that before taking mine out to the range. Thanks!

[jerry639]

Names to avoid in pistols: Jennings, Bryco, HiPoint, Norinco.

I tend to agree with you. Especially the HiPoint. My son bought one and it was a piece of junk. They wouldn't make things right with him either. Although, he only had it a couple months.

My advice on a good home protection weapon is a shotgun or a quality .357 revolver. .38s are a little light but you also don't need a weapon that can kill through 2 walls either.

[Bat_Chemist]

Thanks!

[Bat_Chemist]

The carbine is a neat-looking thing, but won't do for CCW...

Thanks!

[Bat_Chemist]

I appreciate the reply. And congrats to your Gators (from a 'Nole fan who was rooting for you).

[Bat_Chemist]

Prepare for a bit more...

Did you check their site? They're very inexpensive.

[Bat_Chemist]

Good advice, thanks!

[ExSoldier]

You get what you pay for. How much is your life worth?

I'll bet you could pick up a used shottie for the same money.

[Bat_Chemist]

Looks good! I looked at their P3-AT (briefly) .380; do lighter handguns tend to have more kick? (Yes, I am a n00b!)

[Bat_Chemist]

Great info, thanks! I'll check it out.

[Bat_Chemist]

Thanks!

[Bat_Chemist]

I guess you prefer to clean up just bodily wastes instead of body wastes and blood?

(C8

[Bat_Chemist]

Thanks!

[Bat_Chemist]

Good info, thank you!

[Bat_Chemist]

Thanks for your thoughts!

[Bat_Chemist]

Wow. The Shooting Times review was glowing!

Thanks!