suggestions on new full size handgun.

[chiroman]

I currently own several rifles, shotguns, and small CC guns. Looking for some suggestions on a full size handgun. I think I want a .40 or .45. Any suggestions or info would be gear. I know I need to go to the store and feel them out but I would like to have a " top 5-10" list.
Thanks

 

[apvbguy]

GLOCK 21 sf would be a good choice, reliability of a glock with a proven 45 acp

 

[Etkini]

You're going to get as many answers as there are choices out there. You should list some features or things you feel you really want, such as barrel length, magazine capacity, color, if you're particular to a brand or what other firearms you may own (if you own a Glock 23 or 27 it's a no-brainer to get a 22, if you own a Springfield XDM compact get a full-size, etc), what you intend to use it for (keep it stock, mod it, compete with it, etc), and what you expect to pay.

With that said, I love my Springfield XDM 4.5" in .40S&W. The trigger is great, the feel is great.. just about everything if not everything about it is perfect. I have owned for personal use and been issued for duty use a Glock 22, and I like them as well. Or you could get a 1911... or an S&W M&P40... or an FN FNp\FNX - the list just continues.

Like you suggested in your initial post, I'd fondle every handgun the store was willing to hand me. Even better, I'd shoot every firearm I could before buying it. If you've only got Glock and Springfield dealers in your area, I'd take a look at those first. My suggestion would be to fondle what you can, go home and do some Googling (or asking here) to get reviews between the few, do some hard thinking then go back and purchase it.

 

[memphis_raines]

Be sure to check out the Baby Desert Eagles if you get a chance. They're not the full size hand cannons, but there's really nothing "baby" about them. I have 2, one's a 9mm and the other is a .45. The "compact" 9mm has a 3.6" barrel, and the semi-compact .45 has a 3.9" barrel. The .45 is about the same size as the full size Glocks. Both mine are steel frame, but they are also available in polymer. They make them in 9mm, .40, and .45. Very accurate, very reliable.

 

[Riverkilt]

Its not .40 but I'm most impressed with my Beretta M9 and would recommend you put it on your list of handguns to check out.

 

[FrontTowardEnemy]

For .45 ACP, I recommend Sig Sauer P220 Elite. Stainless or Dark. Or one of each! (but ultimately, you need to get the one you love.)

 

[XD357grandpa]

Check out the ballistics on a .357 Sig. I have it in the XD and Love it. Most quality brands carry it such as the Glock 31.

Link Removed

 

[CharlesMorrison]

You might also consider the S&W M&P .40 caliber.
Adjustable back straps fit a variety of hands, 15 + 1 capacity of hard hitting .40 cal ammo and with a barrel change, you can shoot .357 Sig. The .40 mags also work with the .357 Sig round so the barrel is all you need. Midway sells one for $77 plus tax and S&H and there you go! Two guns in one!

 

[DSR M&P]

If you want a gun that will go bang every time fits your hand like a glove has some of the best sights and trigger on the market. I suggest a M&P 40 V TAC.

 

[Bill Amsden]

Don't know what your budget is but the SW M&P .40 are top notch. I love mine. Don't really care for the factory sites though and will be changing them soon. I to have been looking at .45's. There are lots of good ones out there it is just a matter of preference and feel. Personally I like the feel of the G21, The price of the gun is decent and the reputation of Glock stands alone. On the other hand I have been looking at a Colt 1911 as well. All I can say is WOW. It's heavier, and a lot more money, but it is sweet. Bang for the the buck though I would go with the G21.

 

[Deserteagle]

Cant go wrong with a full size Glock 22 (.40) or a Glock 21 (.45)

 

[Warrior1256]

Love my Glock 21SF .45.

 

[B2Tall]

If you've got a big budget ($1k) then the HK45 is tough to beat. For about half that look into the Baby Eagle, EAA Witness (love mine), or CZ97. They're all closely related and excellent pistols.

 

[chiroman]

Think I'm leaning to or at least leaning toward looking at the SW M&P or a 1911 of some sort. all the handguns I own are rugers but I might step out with another manufacture.

 

[AMLKing]

I would give the XD .40 a shot. I have tried the S&W, and did not like the trigger pull on it. However, despite the recommendations, you need to find one that feels good in your hand, and just feels right.

 

[daherc]

I just bought a Metro Arms, American Classic II. I love it. I read an article in Handgunner Magazine about "Beer Budget 1911's" and it got the top score out of about 5 or 6 different 1911's. It only set me back about $525 new, so I can't complain about the price. I shot it at 21 feet (the same distance I shot at to qualify for conceal and carry) and it was a nail driver right out of the box. I highly recommend that gun to anyone interested in a 1911. Good luck with your gun hunt.

 

[txhkman]

If you've got a big budget ($1k) then the HK45 is tough to beat. For about half that look into the Baby Eagle, EAA Witness (love mine), or CZ97. They're all closely related and excellent pistols.

I second the HK45.

 

[Itstjs]

I would recommend a Smith and Wesson M&P 40, I carry it daily as a full size CC weapon. It shoots great and there are tons of accessories out there for it and Smith and Wesson makes great tactical lights (shadow i believe it is called) for CC as well as crimson trace hand grips (which are interchangeable small, medium and large hand grips)
Currently it runs for anywhere between 450 and 550

 

[txhkman]

I would recommend a Smith and Wesson M&P 40, I carry it daily as a full size CC weapon. It shoots great and there are tons of accessories out there for it and Smith and Wesson makes great tactical lights (shadow i believe it is called) for CC as well as crimson trace hand grips (which are interchangeable small, medium and large hand grips)
Currently it runs for anywhere between 450 and 550

How do you carry it?

 

[ToddR]

Elkini stated it quite eloquently. We all have our favorites, our likes and dislikes, etc.

I personally have a M&P 40 and will eventually get the 40c and hopefully a damned Shield in 40.

My Christmas present to myself this year was a Ruger SR1911.

My selections fit ME, not you. My criteria where: American made, at LEAST .40 cal, fit my hand, felt comfortable in my hand, and didn't break the bank. I personally don't like the "square" grip of the Glocks. Springfields are a bit better but too "square" for ME.

Again, you'll have people telling you THEIR choice when the choice is YOURS.

Good luck in your search and trust your hand not the guy behind the counter.