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Advice on first handgun - In CA.

Discussion in 'Guns & Hunting' started by Tun-D, Feb 25, 2020.

  1. Feb 25, 2020 at 6:25 PM
    #1
    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    A little background. I live in California and may move out in the next few years, but need to buy here for now. I grew up hunting with my dad and used to go out shooting all the time. I stopped hunting after dating a hippy in high school and don't have a real desire to hunt again, but I've been thinking about getting a gun for a few reasons for the past few years.
    Reasons:
    Target practice - I always loved shooting clay pigeons or targets with guns and bows. Recently started getting into archery with my kids and it's got me reminiscing about guns again.

    Home protection - had a drugged out kid that knew the previous owners of our new house and invaded our new home on our 4th night in the house. Thank god he was on happy drugs and not violent, but I didn't have my bear spray or fire poker unpacked yet. And I have kids.

    Wilderness protection. I love camping and getting out in the mountains, we have bears and there are crazy people everywhere.

    I know that CA is a horrible place to buy guns with the limited availability of models and red tape - so not trying to get into that conversation. I'm thinking a 9mm would be best suited for all my needs ( maybe not enough for a bear) and price of ammo. I'd like to spend under $500 and have a single hand gun that will be my go to for all these and if I ever want to get a CCW can also be used for that.

    I also have pretty large hands so something like the Glock 19 doesn't fit very well in my hands. I've been to a few gun stores and of all the guns I've held, I like the feel and price of the S&W SD-9VE the most. Might not be as reputable as a glock or some others, so looking for advice from you guys on similar guns in this size range - or glock 17 size range - preferably under $500. Again, in CA we are very limited on avail guns for sale so please try to limit to CA roster guns if you can.

    By the way, seems kinds funny posting this question in a Tundra's forum, but I guess trucks, guns, and dogs all go together:)

    Thanks.
     
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  2. Feb 25, 2020 at 6:54 PM
    #2
    realtorblake

    realtorblake Tundra Thunda

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    Do they have any gun shows in Cali? Here in Texas there is at least one just about every week in my area. No background check, waiting period or taxes to sell from individual to individual.
     
  3. Feb 25, 2020 at 6:58 PM
    #3
    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    Good ?. I'm really not sure, but I was told by one individual that they're not as prevalent as they used to be because government has stepped in and prevented a lot of the gun show perks.
     
  4. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:03 PM
    #4
    TXMiamiFan

    TXMiamiFan SSEM #3 and tractor extraordinaire

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    If it feels good in your hand that’s a good start. S&W are good guns.

    Have you looked at a Beretta 92?
     
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  5. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:04 PM
    #5
    realtorblake

    realtorblake Tundra Thunda

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    I have one of these... https://www.google.com/search?clien...83#imgrc=MLctTJq_isEMhM&imgdii=azWBRRxzMRXGFM

    It is what I would have on my side if bear encounters were a concern. .357 or .38 plus P ammo.
     
  6. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:06 PM
    #6
    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    I should add that I think the SD-9VE stands for Standard Duty 9mm Value Edition. So it sounds like a cheapo model, but i think the slide action and grip feel great - also seems to have pretty good reviews on the internet - and the internet never lies;)
     
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  7. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:08 PM
    #7
    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    To be honest, I didn't even thing about a revolver. I guess I was thinking more along the lines of round capacity and size, but since we can only have 10+1 in CA maybe I should consider it.
     
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  8. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:11 PM
    #8
    19crewmaxTRD

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    You could also look at a ca legal smith and wesson shield 9mm. It's my favorite under 500 and it's what I carry. Also glock 19 if it feels good in your hand. (Doesn't in mine). Kahr have been on the come up for under 500 also. It would be best just to go to your lgs and fondle them all
     
  9. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:11 PM
    #9
    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    Man, I used to sell guns at a sports store in Sacramento CA and always loved the feel of the Beretta's over everything else we sold. But, when I was looking at them in the stores there didn't appear to be any in my price range that "felt good". Now, having said that, I was really bummed that the Beretta APX was not avail in California, because that looks like exactly what I am looking for. I'll look more into the 92 though. Thanks.
     
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  10. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:12 PM
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    Tundra234

    Tundra234 New Member

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    Alot of them
    Take a look at the S&W M&P Shield 9 M2.0 Its the middle one in the picture. It is a very nice 9mm. I got mine for $429 and it has integrated laser. Here is the gun section of the forum. https://www.tundras.com/forums/guns-hunting.60/

    Resized_20191213_060041.jpg
     
  11. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:13 PM
    #11
    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    I stopped by an indoor range in Sacramento last weekend that sells and rents. I think I might spend the $ to try out a few models, but still interested in hearing what sound decision makers choose - since those are the only kind of people in this forum:)
     
  12. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:18 PM
    #12
    easleycrawler

    easleycrawler TOYOTA ADDICT- SSEM #78

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  13. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:21 PM
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    PowerMan81

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    I went with the Springfield XD-9 tactical. I have big hands also and it fits really nice in my hand. It’s never given me a lick of trouble. It was a little hard to hold onto when my hands would sweat so I threw a talon grip on it which made all the difference. I also have the XD subcompact which I like but I need the grip extension mags to really shoot it well.
    They have the grip safety which I like because it will only shoot when you are holding it properly. Some people don’t like them.
     
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  14. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:23 PM
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    bleach

    bleach MEME Fiend

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    No need to say more.
     
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  15. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:27 PM
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    Openroad98

    Openroad98 New Member

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    Stock for now...
    I’ve had quite a few every day carry guns over the years, my favorite for value, simplicity, reliability, and dependability is the Springfield XD series. I have an XD subcompact and an XDm 9 Tactical with the 5.25” barrel. The compact is easy to carry, can nearly maxed out the 10 round capacity due to the double stack mag, and fits relatively well in large hands for such a small size. The XDm is a dang tack driver and shoots tight groups all day long.

    My personal favorite is my Kimber CDP .45ACP bit that’s north of $900 most places. I also would be a fan of the Sig P229 Elite series but again, pricey. it’s hard to be at the Springfield XD series for value and accuracy, but it also matters whether or not they fit your hand.

    PS: For a great line of OWB and IWB holsters, check out Crossbreed holsters line of products. I have three of their supertuck holsters and their gun belt and all have held up really well over 5 to 7 years.
     
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  16. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:31 PM
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    ToyotaTundraMike

    ToyotaTundraMike Not A New Member

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    Have you considered a .45?


    Listening to your needs and keeping Cali regs in mind it sounds like a 1911 style pistol would suit you well.

    .45 maybe isn’t as fun to plink with as a 9mm but for home defense and sleeping with the bears it would be a good option.
     
  17. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:35 PM
    #17
    Hbjeff

    Hbjeff New Member

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    Definitely test every style at the range. The 92f is nice, but the safety on it feels super clunky to me. 1911’s feel great, but I’ll always take the reliability of a glock.


    Consider the glock 21. The grip frame is wider than the 17/19. 10 rounds of 45
     
  18. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:36 PM
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    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    The guy at the gun range also suggested the XD-9 as a really solid upgrade from the S&W I was looking at but still in my price range. I'll check it out.
     
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  19. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:37 PM
    #19
    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    Good point. I'll definitely keep my options open. Thanks.
     
  20. Feb 25, 2020 at 7:47 PM
    #20
    19crewmaxTRD

    19crewmaxTRD Tundra Enthusiast

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    Mostly a side note, but when in bear country with whatever handgun you chose load up some extreme penetrators or at least some fmjs because no hollow point out of a pistol will do anything but piss off a bear. Not trying to start a caliber debate, but if your serious about bears look at 40s they will penetrate better than 9mm or .45
     
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  21. Feb 25, 2020 at 8:48 PM
    #21
    MJoeP

    MJoeP New Member

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    For honest and very well spoken/thought out reviews, take a look at Youtube. Look for Hickok45. He covers many guns and styles, etc. Find a gun you like and see what he has to say about it.

    https://www.youtube.com/user/hickok45

    Here is his review of the S&W SD-9VE you mention.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cleMs8xmqc
     
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  22. Feb 25, 2020 at 8:49 PM
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    Flyinryank

    Flyinryank New Member

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    I’d I could only own one handgun that will do everything well it would be a Glock 19 hands down
     
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  23. Feb 25, 2020 at 9:03 PM
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    saybng

    saybng Just a member.

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    Consider the .45. I have to say 1911's feel great and very comfortable, it feels like a 9mm to me..and comfortable to carry...kimber ultra carry..

    20200225_205931.jpg
     
  24. Feb 25, 2020 at 9:06 PM
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    Tun-D

    Tun-D [OP] New Member

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    Thanks - have already seen it and sub'd. Also checked out Military Arms Channel with his torture tests, but I don't think he's done the S&W. Good stuff though.
     
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  25. Feb 25, 2020 at 9:21 PM
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    Tun-D

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    I think that's the most common remark I get, just really don't like the feel of it in my ogre hands. Would maybe need to go to the 17.
     
  26. Feb 25, 2020 at 10:13 PM
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    LittleTRD

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    Best advice I'd give before making a decision on your sole handgun purchase, is definitely to rent and shoot some 9mm's at your closest range. Especially with the CA gun laws and waiting periods. You'll want to minimize buying and selling, trying to find your find your favorite.

    Not to beat the dead horse because I can read the Glock 19 doesn't feel good in your hands. But my 2 cents, I'll always choose Glock if I had to pick only 1. All of mine are chambered in 9mm(17,19,43). Never have given me any malfunctions(after 20,000 rounds and counting), they shoot whatever ammo you put in em, super easy to disassemble and maintain, and their is always a shop somewhat close by with someone able to work on them and have parts available if you don't feel like digging into it yourself. In addition there are tons of holster and accessory options for the Glock platform available.

    Sidenote, if you end up liking the Springfield XD after firing a few guns at the range. I have a XD 9mm Tactical with less than 100 rounds through it. Comes with quite a few extras too. PPT at a local gunshop and you can save a few bucks.
     
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  27. Feb 25, 2020 at 10:31 PM
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    CNE0207

    CNE0207 New Member

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    I’d say try to stay away from something cheap, in my experience something more reputable, right fit, etc is more important. You’re buying a firearm because you need it in a possibly life or death scenario.... it’s worth the few extra bucks now. Think of it like harbor freight tools... you get what you pay for.
     
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  28. Feb 25, 2020 at 10:48 PM
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    1lowlife

    1lowlife Toxic prick and pavement princess..

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    After owning several brands and actions of handguns over the last 20 years, I'm a big Glock fan.
    Started Beretta (in the 90s), then on to Sigs ( I like DAK triggers), bought a Glock 26 to carry, the on to SA XD, tried a few single action 9mm 1911s, then back to Glock.

    For a self defense, whether carry or home defense, I don't like any external safeties or single action (1911 ) triggers.
    I want some slack in an SD gun trigger, another reason I like my Glocks.
    DA/SA pistols (Sig, HK, etc.), I like a consistent trigger pull in an SD handgun.
    No different trigger pulls, no decockers..

    You also have to consider having kids at home and keeping ANY firearm in a locked box or quick access safe.
    Also consider your wife possibly using said firearm if you're not home and her familiarity, ease of using it, and accessibility.

    I'd suggest take a basic firearms class if the ranges in Cali have like the ones in Texas.
    I know you already know the basics, but my wife took a basic firearms class here and they let her shoot over 14 different handguns at the class.

    I understand the G19 doesn't feel good in your hand, it's too small in my hand as well.
    If you're wanting home protection, a Glock 17 is a good choice.
    If there is a possibility of carrying said firearm, look at a Glock 45.

    Glock 45 is a 9mm full sized G17 frame, with a G19 sized slide.

    mqs0wpbq_zpsmrwkq3ya_4e57f5b22413a88614d9bc9b20a0dcc81c5d0828.jpg

    I carry mine with a Glock OEM +2 for 19+1.

    IMG_0908_zpsm3q2erzv_5a8898a3bf95151cba8e91177542af8006ad9b46.jpg

    With your Cali mag restrictions, I'd suggest handling a Glock 48 or 43X.
    Both hold 10+1 rds, the 48 will have a longer G19 sized slide.

    [​IMG]

    S&W M&P line is a good choice, but the SD-9VE is pretty much a cheap S&W Sigma, their (at the time) answer to a Glock.
    I bought an sold several SA XD pistols, if you like a spongy and soft trigger, they might be the gun for you.


    But as others stated, it's a very subjective subject.
    You need to handle, and possibly shoot, several handguns that feel comfortable in your hand.
    Don't let any LGS salesman lead you into his or her favorite.
    Handle several, see what feels good, realize your budget, and go from there.
    And when you do decide and buy, shoot it.
    Take the wife with you and have her shoot it.
    She needs to know what to expect if she ever needs to use it in SD..

    Good luck...1LL
     
  29. Feb 26, 2020 at 4:48 AM
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    Deuxlatch

    Deuxlatch AirBus

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    I had an SD-9VE and hated it. Seemed like every other round was FTF and the gunsmith never could figure it out. When it comes to handguns, you get what you pay for. Make sure it's reliable when you need it. If you are going to plink with it at the range but still want it for HP then I suggest the fairly inexpensive 9mm with ball ammo for the range and hollow points for self defense, it will be cheaper in the long run. The Beretta 92FS has been around for many years with a proven record throughout the military and has a big grip, plus you could easily cycle 20k-30k rounds through it before you would really need to rebuild it. Can't do that with a cheap gun. Best bang for the buck in my opinion. I paid $575 for mine here in Texas, brand new Italian model in 2014.
     
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  30. Feb 26, 2020 at 4:55 AM
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    MrMitch96

    MrMitch96 New Member

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