Posted on 03/22/2010 8:36:33 PM PDT by tatown
If someone were looking to purchase a revolver (.357 or .41 Mag) or a semi (9mm or 45) what would you recommend? Budget < $700.00.
Revolver/Semi: that needs to be settled first.
And feel free to post gun porn pics!
More information is needed. Is it strictly for target practice or are you looking for a carry weapon? Do you have small hands or large?
Please be more specific about the intended use.
Also, unless you’re made of cash and/or an expert reloader, avoid the .41. It’s an actual cartridge, but rather obscure. (I’m still not sure it wasn’t a typo.)
Check out the Ruger GP-100 .357 mag. revolver.
There is no right answer for everyone. It depends on the individuals physical capability, actual needs and experience.
I always recommend a revolver for those with little or no weapons experience. If you are comfortable, then an automatic might be good for you. If you have a lot of experience you might choose a weapon without an external safety.
Find a gunsmith with a range willing to let you try various weapons. You might also check the multitude FR threads on the same subject.
Depends on your needs. I have a nice S&W .357 N-frame, it’s kinda huge, but if I bought another one right now I would go for the Ruger LCR. It’s only a .38 but very small and easy to hide.
There’s some nice ammo around for that revolver.
In 9mm or thereabouts I’d prolly go for a KelTec, or a Sig if I could afford it. ‘Course I have no experience with either of those, just what I’ve read.
Might be a little out of the $700 price range he mentioned.
I have lots of experience with firearms. The gun will be for self protection but it won’t be concealed. I have always liked semi’s but am a bit leery of their reliability... Is this even a valid concern?
Thanks for the replies everyone!
Hi-Point Model C9 9mm, about $140
I had a Smith & Wesson Model 686 Revolver (8 3/8” barrel) that was accurate enough to shoot the nuts off a gnat at 50 yards.
Dan Wesson (Pistol Pack) or S&W for the revolver. Springfield for a 1911 45 ACP in that price range.
Any of the S&W revolver models in .38 special will do. You can always take anything else from the UN troops...
Go to a gun store that lets you try different models. Find what works for you as far as feel, firepower and price. Then practice like hell. I chose a Berreta mini cougar in .40 because it is a 3/4 version of the cougar and I like the .40 calibur. I have small hands and it works well for me and I like the feel and handling of the firearm. I also have a Ruger .357 Blackhawk for real fun. Take your time and discover what works for you. Then practice.
Bang.
At that price range, for a 9mm auto(or .40) you can’t go wrong with Beretta, HK, Glock, or Sig. All are great. I own a Beretta 9mm & HK USP .45 Tactical(out of your price range), and both have been super handguns, years without a jam or malfunction from both. I’ve never owned a revolver, so I can’t say much about them.
You might be able to get a revolver and an auto with that budget, especially if you go used. In revolver, go with the 357. It is more versatile in that it also fires 38. Auto, personally I like Glocks, they are very tough and simple and are available in either caliber. Forty fives have the record for stopping power, 9mm is a little cheaper to shoot. I would go for the 45. A colt 1911 or clone is awesome and can be accessorised like nothing else, but is out of your budget as you cant find them under a grand any more.
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