Buying a handgun, could use some tips.

M

manc

New member
Hi guys, I went to a gun store a couple of days ago to see some prices and have pretty much decided on a Taurus 9mm or .40. I read that the 9mm has adequate stopping power and cheap ammo. But the .40 and 9mm is the same price so I'm wondering if I should I just go ahead and get that.

Also, the gun store I went to was in Kentucky so they can't sell me anything but can someone recommend a store that has fair prices around the Cincinnati area? I'm looking at $400 max.

Any tips will be appreciated :)

Thanks!
 
Google gun stores in your area and go to them all. You might find a killer deal at one while the other is way out of left field in prices. I've seen 100+ dollar differences on several guns at several stores. You can also shop online or get a general price idea from buds online gun store. Not sure the exact link as I use the app but Google it. As far as the 9mm vs 40 goes that'll start a debate only you can decide on. If you're a newer shooter you might want to stick with 9mm at least for now. I've shot my whole life and have owned .40 cals but hated shooting the thing. 9mm is more common and generally cheaper.

Another thing you need to consider is size if you plan on carrying it. Some people are highly tolerant while others can't handle a single stack sub compact ( like me )
 
Don't know how frequently there are gun shows in your area but that is probably where you could find your best deals. You have several dealers in one place so you can go back and forth making a deal.

As far the caliber goes, if you have a gun range in the area that rents guns maybe you can "test" the 9mm vs. .40 cal. to see which you can handle best.

Good luck on the "hunt".
 
Ok, listen to uncle PR. Go seek out opportunities to shoot everything you can get your hands on. Even stuff that's out of your price range. Why? Because that's the only way you can find out what you prefer, and what you don't. Take good notes. You don't have to get technical, just remind yourself what you liked and what you didn't.

Did it function reliably?
Was the recoil manageable?
Is the ammo readily available and affordable?
Are the features of the gun easy to navigate and operate (safety, mag release, decock, slide, slide release, etc.)
Does it feel good in your hands?
Is the size appropriate for your intent?
Is the weight acceptable?
Does it seem to shoot accurately?
Does the manufacturer have a good reputation for quality and safety?
And whatever else is important to you...

Then finally, go find a model that best fits all of the preferences you've developed during your research. THEN, go looking for the best deal you can find.

Yes, you might spend more than $400. But you'll have more time to save, and you'll make a purchase you won't likely regret.

Good luck!

(Option #2: Save another $150, and yourself a whole lot of hassle, and get a Glock! Peace out!) :D
 
Get something comfortable for you to carry everyday. Most start out with a weapon to big and they end up not carrying. How do I know this? I carry a kel Tec 9mm pf9 all the time now..light and small, sure I have a big 40 cal glock 23 with a milt sparks summer 2 holster but it is so uncomfortable to carry , sit, drive stuff or what ever...I like my kel Tec ...u might even want to go kel Tec 380 in a pocket holster later on. As much as I like double stack mags, I shy away and stick with slim single stack mag pistols for IWB carry. I've been carrying pistols concealed for thirty some years while off duty. Don't mess with 22's 32acp 25acp they might not do the job when needed. 380 is abt as low as I will go and some might say that is too small. You'll see a lot on these forums State they carry big guns and I'm happy for them. small 38 revolvers are great too such as a S&W j frame. Get a good holster, don't mess with those Velcro attached nylon holsters. Something like a galco IWB right is good to start on. Do ur research on bullets get the good stuff to carry.
 
Caliber? For self defense IMHO any projectile that will perferate will do the job with correct shot placement. Caliber is secondary, train for muscle memory,accuracy & responce. Firearm? Spend the xtra money & purchase a Glock or Sig. Most LEO use Glock & the general primary carry for GLEA is Sig. You cant go wrong! Practice,Practice & Practice some more with whatever you choose..."Stand Strong & Shoot Straight"
 
Glock 19 Gen3 is your best bet, of course thats what I carry, but I did a lot of research before buying my Glock. The Gen4's have some problems with springs and things stick with the Gen3's, 9mm ammo is almost half the price of 40mm
 
Robert Proctor said:
Glock 19 Gen3 is your best bet, of course thats what I carry, but I did a lot of research before buying my Glock. The Gen4's have some problems with springs and things stick with the Gen3's, 9mm ammo is almost half the price of 40mm
Click to expand...

Seconded ... except that the early issues with the Gen4s seem to have been resolved so I wouldn't necessarily take that option off the table. :-)
 
Thanks everyone, I thought about it and I'm pretty set on a Taurus 9MM, subcompact. I have another question though, I have been in Ohio for over 30 days now, but I don't have an Ohio drivers license or I.D. I have check stubs and utility bills to prove my residency but I called one gun shop and they said I need a picture I.D. from Ohio. I get where they're coming from and why, but at the same time I am a resident, with or without the I.D. Is this a state law? My biggest issue is that Ohio requires a written test to be taken and, as a licensed driver, I find that to be offensive since I don't believe any other state does that.
 
manc:238519 said:
Thanks everyone, I thought about it and I'm pretty set on a Taurus 9MM, subcompact.
Click to expand...

Ahhh...so much potential, and he blew it with one hasty decision. I'll go mourn in private now. With a little scotch, I think.
 
manc said:
My biggest issue is that Ohio requires a written test to be taken and, as a licensed driver, I find that to be offensive since I don't believe any other state does that.
Click to expand...
Actually, I dont know of any state that DOESNT require a written test for new residents..... What would be out of the norm would be requiring a driving test to boot if your current out of state license isnt expired....

I am sure that there probably are some, I just havent seen any...
I am prior military, and have had quite a lot of different states drivers licenses....

Edited to add: Actually, now that I think about it, Missouri DID require both a written, and a driving test, didnt matter that your current out of state was not yet expired... Also wanted to say that a Taurus is a fine choice... as far as 9 vs 40.... that is strictly a personal choice.. 9 is cheaper, but 40 is more potent, not that 9 is wimpy...
 
Nevada didn't require a written as long as your license from the previous state isn't expired, however Oregon required a written test. Resident or not the background check requires an I.D number. You can't fight the system so take your test or don't get a gun
 
Well, I'm an Ohioian but if my license expired I too would have to take the written test again after 30 days. I really think it is about the money. Licenses, plates pay for the roads...at least that is what I'm told by the BMV however, I don't believe all of it goes to roads. As one person your in a losing battle... make it easy on yourself, take the test, pay the money, get the ID and enjoy!
 
I'm not sure if your buying the gun for yourself or someone else. I had an issue with my wife and finding a gun to fit her small "childlike hands". She is only 4' 10" and very small hands. And the price also is a determining factor as they were all over the place from $200 to $1200.

One issue I found in gun research is the dealers do not carry many different weapons. Seems they each stick to a particular line and then select models. I'm sure it is because of their profit margin.

And then each brand has a variety of models and again dealers have a limited selection. Some dealers were not very resceptive to "trying fit and feel" when they knew we may not be purchasing. A tough problem, I can see their point but how else to know what weapon is best fit.

My spouse decided upon a Sig Sauer P238 / Sig Sauer P22 for practicing - having the same gun type makes transition from target to carry an easy move.

And I have found auction sites that have factory new from $150 to $500 for the same weapon selling for 3 times as much from both Mom & Pop shops to the Large Sportsman Stores.

There are several GREAT Sportsman Stores which are also sending stock to the same auction sites and I have found some great prices and I picked it up directly from their store saving both shipping and the FFL costs.

Bottom line..... I'm happy because "SHE IS HAPPY"!
 
Thanks for all of the replies! Regarding the test, I'm just going to take it. No biggy. I went to the range last week and fired a 9mm USP and it seemed fine. I don't have big hands so a subcompact gun will work for me. I also wear fitted clothing so I want a gun that won't print and is not that bulky.
 
Consider Auctions...

Ok,
Now this is not for everyone but some auction sites offer "Factory New" guns for quite a bit of savings.

I have bought from GunBroker and Auction Arms I saved 60% one gun and 50% on a another. It took a bit of watching and trying but eventually I paid and saved what I had in my budget.

For service I have a local gunsmith I have often discussed with him this issue of buying online and he likes it. He does not have to purchase large inventories and gets to do what he likes best.... service.

Joe
 
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