What semi automatic should I get?

[Millie]

I don't want to spend a ton of money. My friend at the sheriff's office says get a Glock. Forgot what number, but it's the one he uses. Can I get one in the 200$ range and still have it work OK? Any suggestions? I want it to be my car gun in case I run into trouble, so it needs to work right. Thanks in advance.

 

[Prosecutor]

I don't want to spend a ton of money. My friend at the sheriff's office says get a Glock. Forgot what number, but it's the one he uses. Can I get one in the 200$ range and still have it work OK? Any suggestions? I want it to be my car gun in case I run into trouble, so it needs to work right. Thanks in advance.

Glock makes fine semi-auto pistols in many sizes and calibers. So, odds are that your friend gave good advice. You might want to look into the different Glock models because there are many configurations, sizes, and calibers. Find out what works best for you.

Can you get one in the $200 range? Probably not a good Glock. There are few options if $200 is a hard limit. That said, you can find some Bersa or used Taurus in that range.

I am not sure what you mean by "car gun." Folks sometimes use that term, or "truck gun," to describe a gun that is always left in the car, even unattended. If that what you mean, I strongly recommend against the practice. Vehicles are not secure. A lot of guns are stolen from parked cars. It's a common occurrence. They end up with criminals. Carry the gun with you and do not leave it in the car when parked if it can be avoided with reasonable effort.

Tell us more about your needs or intended gun use.

 

[SLM]

Glock makes fine semi-auto pistols in many sizes and calibers. So, odds are that your friend gave good advice. You might want to look into the different Glock models because there are many configurations, sizes, and calibers. Find out what works best for you.

Can you get one in the $200 range? Probably not a good Glock. There are few options if $200 is a hard limit. That said, you can find some Bersa or used Taurus in that range.

I am not sure what you mean by "car gun." Folks sometimes use that term, or "truck gun," to describe a gun that is always left in the car, even unattended. If that what you mean, I strongly recommend against the practice. Vehicles are not secure. A lot of guns are stolen from parked cars. It's a common occurrence. They end up with criminals. Carry the gun with you and do not leave it in the car when parked if it can be avoided with reasonable effort.

Tell us more about your needs or intended gun use.

Solid advice!

 

[Majicmike]

You can't can't get any kind of Glock for 200 bucks. If your not looking a CHP gun buy a HI Point

 

[CDR_Glock]

I don't want to spend a ton of money. My friend at the sheriff's office says get a Glock. Forgot what number, but it's the one he uses. Can I get one in the 200$ range and still have it work OK? Any suggestions? I want it to be my car gun in case I run into trouble, so it needs to work right. Thanks in advance.

I’m sorry but there really isn’t a good gun in that price range, unless you’re considering a used Revolver.

There are more break ins for weapons in vehicles, these days. I don’t really recommend that, either.

I’d recommend a 9mm. Ammo is $160-$200 for 1000 rounds. Larger calibers run much higher.

If you look, you may find a used compact or full sized Glock around $400. With that said, you need to invest time and money on training, holster, spare magazines, a safe or lockbox, and ammunition. Range time is also costly.

I see the true expenditure of gun ownership to be at least $1000.

Just consider what your life, peace of mind and safety are worth.


Instagram: MuzzleblastMD

 

[Millie]

Glock makes fine semi-auto pistols in many sizes and calibers. So, odds are that your friend gave good advice. You might want to look into the different Glock models because there are many configurations, sizes, and calibers. Find out what works best for you.

Can you get one in the $200 range? Probably not a good Glock. There are few options if $200 is a hard limit. That said, you can find some Bersa or used Taurus in that range.

I am not sure what you mean by "car gun." Folks sometimes use that term, or "truck gun," to describe a gun that is always left in the car, even unattended. If that what you mean, I strongly recommend against the practice. Vehicles are not secure. A lot of guns are stolen from parked cars. It's a common occurrence. They end up with criminals. Carry the gun with you and do not leave it in the car when parked if it can be avoided with reasonable effort.

Tell us more about your needs or intended gun use.

I meant it's the gun I'd carry in the car, but it will be hidden when I'm not in it. I might be able to go a little higher on price, but not much. I don't really need it to be a certain size either...I have a big purse! But I don't want a teeny little gun...biggish hands. Lol. Is Bersa a good make? And people seem to hate Taurus, though I already own one that I haven't fired yet. That one is my house gun, lol. Does this info help?

 

[Millie]

You can't can't get any kind of Glock for 200 bucks. If your not looking a CHP guy buy a HI Point

Thanks, I'll look into hi point. I've seen good and not good comments on them.

 

[NCFubar]

You have not fired gun you have for home protection? NO ES BUENO! If I’m going to bet my life on a firearm I’m going to test it, test what ammo works best in it and then run it to where I get a good feel of firing it. Get thee to a range and shooth thy gun!

Also what experience do you have with firearms? If you are new take a Basics class and there even some instructors who have a few different ones for the class try.

 

[J R Green]

Buy once cry once. You can get a really reliable gun in the $350-$400 range. Glock or S&W M&P. You will not be happy with a high point in the long run.

 

[Millie]

I’m sorry but there really isn’t a good gun in that price range, unless you’re considering a used Revolver.

There are more break ins for weapons in vehicles, these days. I don’t really recommend that, either.

I’d recommend a 9mm. Ammo is $160-$200 for 1000 rounds. Larger calibers run much higher.

If you look, you may find a used compact or full sized Glock around $400. With that said, you need to invest time and money on training, holster, spare magazines, a safe or lockbox, and ammunition. Range time is also costly.

I see the true expenditure of gun ownership to be at least $1000.

Just consider what your life, peace of mind and safety are worth.


Instagram: MuzzleblastMD

Thanks. I have a revolver. A Taurus. I'll rethink leaving a gun in the car, now. I just want one that will shoot when I want it to, and have more capacity for rounds than the revolver. The new gun will probably travel with me. Looks like I might have to save a few more pennies.

 

[Zbizzle911]

 

[Millie]

You have not fired gun you have for home protection? NO ES BUENO! If I’m going to bet my life on a firearm I’m going to test it, test what ammo works best in it and then run it to where I get a good feel of firing it. Get thee to a range and shooth thy gun!

Actually taking the carry class soon. Trying to find a range near me so I won't be a dummy on the qualifying!!!....it's a big secret or something where the range is... Lol. But I'm already proficient with my .25.... I will get my a$$ soonest to some range, I swear!

 

[Millie]

Buy once cry once. You can get a really reliable gun in the $350-$400 range. Glock or S&W M&P. You will not be happy with a high point in the long run.

Are they not reliable?

 

[foopid stucker]

Look at a SCCY , I carry a cpx2 daily.

 

[Zbizzle911]

Are they not reliable?

Its not that their not reliable but they aren't ergonomic for most people. watch lots of youtube videos MrGunsNGear and Military Arms Channel are good places to start.

 

[Prosecutor]

I meant it's the gun I'd carry in the car, but it will be hidden when I'm not in it. I might be able to go a little higher on price, but not much. I don't really need it to be a certain size either...I have a big purse! But I don't want a teeny little gun...biggish hands. Lol. Is Bersa a good make? And people seem to hate Taurus, though I already own one that I haven't fired yet. That one is my house gun, lol. Does this info help?

I'll reiterate the recommendation against leaving a gun unattended in the car long-term...or even short term to the extent you can avoid it.

Bersa....hmmm. You know what? Bersa Thunder in .380 might actually be a good choice for you. They are relatively inexpensive but, in my experience, reliable, accurate, comfortable and fun to shoot. You mentioned purse carry. It might be easier and safer to carry a Bersa Thunder in your purse, as compared to striker fired or single action guns. They are double-action. Really, feel good in the hand. Check it out.

 

[Millie]

You have not fired gun you have for home protection? NO ES BUENO! If I’m going to bet my life on a firearm I’m going to test it, test what ammo works best in it and then run it to where I get a good feel of firing it. Get thee to a range and shooth thy gun!

Also what experience do you have with firearms? If you are new take a Basics class and there even some instructors who have a few different ones for the class try.

I've shot a .25 auto a fair amount. But not lately, it's too small for my hand. I cannot find a class nearby...boonies. The concealed carry class is near Fayetteville. I'm Hoping the instructor will help me find a class...I'm not near a big city. I just want to go to a range and learn about my gun!!! It seems I must go into the woods...lol...but I'm not sure I want to blast away with my .38 SPL. There are houses in the area...

 

[SLM]

Go up to the price range of $300-350 or so, then things get very interesting... There several very good ones, such as: Walther Creed, Ruger SR9C, Walther CCP & Gen 1 PPS, S&W Shields (used), Ruger LC9S and any number of police trade-in pistols that can be had at very reasonable prices....( I know I forgot a few good models, someone else here will come up with some other excellent ideas as well.)

 

[Millie]

Its not that their not reliable but they aren't ergonomic for most people. watch lots of youtube videos MrGunsNGear and Military Arms Channel are good places to start.

OK I will thanks.

 

[Millie]

Go up to the price range of $300-350 or so, then things get very interesting... There several very good ones, such as: Walther Creed, Ruger SR9C, Walther CCP & Gen 1 PPS, S&W Shields (used), Ruger LC9S and any number of police trade-in pistols that can be had at very reasonable prices....( I know I forgot a few good models, someone else here will come up with some other excellent ideas as well.)

Now we're getting way over budget. I might have to wait awhile on this gun, I'm not too happy about that. But if I do find something in the under 300$ range, is there something I must avoid at all costs? Don't say Taurus, lol.

 

[Majicmike]

Where do you live?

 

[SLM]

In all honesty, at this point, you're probably better off spending the $200 on quality range time, speed loaders & speed strips and training ammo for the .38Spl, and gaining real confidence in you level of competence w/ the .38, then just roll with it until you're in a better financial situation, where you can have the flexibility to buy something you'd really want.

Probably not what you want to hear, but decent advice.

 

[Millie]

I'll reiterate the recommendation against leaving a gun unattended in the car long-term...or even short term to the extent you can avoid it.

Bersa....hmmm. You know what? Bersa Thunder in .380 might actually be a good choice for you. They are relatively inexpensive but, in my experience, reliable, accurate, comfortable and fun to shoot. You mentioned purse carry. It might be easier and safer to carry a Bersa Thunder in your purse, as compared to striker fired or single action guns. They are double-action. Really, feel good in the hand. Check it out.

Is .380 like a .38? Size of round, I mean? I will look at Bersa, I've read about so many kinds of guns...big headache..but I think I have them on a list. Striker fired means.....? And is this Bersa a little bitty gun? If so, it won't do for me. Lol. I have biggish, strongish hands. My revolver fits my hand well, the trigger is easy to pull, etc. I do appreciate all the help I'm getting here, really.

 

[Prosecutor]

Is .380 like a .38? Size of round, I mean? I will look at Bersa, I've read about so many kinds of guns...big headache..but I think I have them on a list. Striker fired means.....? And is this Bersa a little bitty gun? If so, it won't do for me. Lol. I have biggish, strongish hands. My revolver fits my hand well, the trigger is easy to pull, etc. I do appreciate all the help I'm getting here, really.

No, Bersa is not a little tiny gun. It's a good size. The round, .380, is like a 9mm short and similar to .38 Special, but slightly less powerful and designed for semi-auto pistols. The weight of a Bersa Thunder combined with the mild recoil of .380 makes a pleasant shooter. You'll need to lay hands on these guns to try for yourself. Where do you live in NC...what city? If in Charlotte area, I can point you toward good shops where they have this stuff on hand and can work with you.

 

[Jeppo]

@Millie, is there any way for you to consolidate the house/car/purse gun into one? You could spend more on just one gun, buy just one caliber of ammo (but two types; range and SD) and train with one gun until you're proficient. You also wouldn't risk having a gun stolen out of your vehicle.

This afternoon, I shot 5 different pistols in 2 calibers and 2 brands. I don't consider myself proficient with any of them and waste a lot of time and ammo going from gun to gun. Just ask the guys who watched me put lead in the dirt today.

 

[Millie]

No, Bersa is not a little tiny gun. It's a good size. The round, .380, is like a 9mm short and similar to .38 Special, but slightly less powerful and designed for semi-auto pistols. The weight of a Bersa Thunder combined with the mild recoil of .380 makes a pleasant shooter. You'll need to lay hands on these guns to try for yourself. Where do you live in NC...what city? If in Charlotte area, I can point you toward good shops where they have this stuff on hand and can work with you.

Not close to Charlotte. Nearest city is Fayetteville, next is Southern Pines/Pinehurst. I live near Laurinburg..but I'm realizing I might have to travel a bit. Charlotte may be a bit far...I've never been there, so it might be a nice trip?

 

[Prosecutor]

Not close to Charlotte. Nearest city is Fayetteville, next is Southern Pines/Pinehurst. I live near Laurinburg..but I'm realizing I might have to travel a bit. Charlotte may be a bit far...I've never been there, so it might be a nice trip?

The drive from Laurinburg to Charlotte sucks...but if you can make it to Wadesboro, the folks at Village Pawn will have a lot for you to handle / examine. Maybe somebody else can recommend a good shop in Fayetteville.

 

[Millie]

@Millie, is there any way for you to consolidate the house/car/purse gun into one? You could spend more one just one gun, buy just one caliber of ammo (but two types; range and SD) and train with one gun until you're proficient. You also wouldn't risk having a gun stolen out of your vehicle.

This afternoon, I shot 5 different pistols in 2 calibers and 2 brands. I don't consider myself proficient with any of them and waste a lot of time and ammo going from gun to gun. Just ask the guys who watched me put lead in the dirt today.

Well, I've already bought the revolver. I just wanted another gun with more round capacity, which to me means double the revo!vers capacity. Just in case...lol. As for the 2 ammos, I have the recommended hollow points for defense, and I got quite a few fmj to practice with. So the revolver stays, unless it turns out to be a POS...which I devoutly hope it doesn't. I love that thing! Don't ask me why...but I do!

 

[Millie]

The drive from Laurinburg to Charlotte sucks...but if you can make it to Wadesboro, the folks at Village Pawn will have a lot for you to handle / examine. Maybe somebody else can recommend a good shop in Fayetteville.

I'll look up Wadesboro...

 

[Jeppo]

I stand by my previous advice which seems pretty similar to what you see in post #22 above. If you got really good with revolver, you probably wouldn't need more capacity. One round that hits the right place is a lot better (at least for the shooter) than 20 that don't.

 

[Millie]

I stand by my previous advice which seems pretty similar to what you see in post #22 above. If you got really good with revolver, you probably wouldn't need more capacity. One round that hits the right place is a lot better (at least for the shooter) than 20 that don't.

True that! But I sort of want both types of guns....I'm not going to end up with an arsenal (I hope), but my .25 is too tiny and I'd like to have a choice....however good I get, I might need more than 5 rounds if it came down to it, right? Who knows what a real-life situation could do to my aim, if I was freaked out. But I appreciate the feedback....I might not take it though.

 

[ronn47]

Try Mid South Guns in Wagram, about 15 mins from you
I believe the owners name is Phil
He would also know where you could go to shoot in the area

 

[Millie]

In all honesty, at this point, you're probably better off spending the $200 on quality range time, speed loaders & speed strips and training ammo for the .38Spl, and gaining real confidence in you level of competence w/ the .38, then just roll with it until you're in a better financial situation, where you can have the flexibility to buy something you'd really want.

Probably not what you want to hear, but decent advice.

You might be right about getting a bigger budget for my semi auto. It's not like I'm gun-less, after all. Are speed loaders really necessary? The guy teaching the CC class says I don't need to bring one. I do have 200 rounds of ammo for training...not many to guys discussing buying by the thousand, but a start! So I'll think about putting a hold on the other gun, for a bit. I really do like my revolver, it's comfy in my hand. Let's pray it works for me on the range.....

 

[doose]

The drive from Laurinburg to Charlotte sucks...but if you can make it to Wadesboro, the folks at Village Pawn will have a lot for you to handle / examine. Maybe somebody else can recommend a good shop in Fayetteville.

Jims Pawn shop in Fayetteville. There is also a Jims location in Southern Pines. Good store. I have bought from there before.

The Bersa thunder 380 is a decent pistol in 380. it holds 8 rounds. also, your taurus revolver is a decent revolver also.

 

[Millie]

Jims Pawn shop in Fayetteville. There is also a Jims location in Southern Pines. Good store. I have bought from there before.

I've put them on my list to visit! Haven't gone yet, house stuff going on, but thanks.

 

[Oneofsix]

Try Mid South Guns in Wagram, about 15 mins from you
I believe the owners name is Phil
He would also know where you could go to shoot in the area

I was just thinking the same, Mid South is fairly close to your area.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-J120AZ using Tapatalk

 

[Millie]

Try Mid South Guns in Wagram, about 15 mins from you
I believe the owners name is Phil
He would also know where you could go to shoot in the area

I bought my revolver there actually, and they said the range is behind the school, but I only found the police station! Lol. I went by today but they closed at 2.

 

[CDR_Glock]

Not close to Charlotte. Nearest city is Fayetteville, next is Southern Pines/Pinehurst. I live near Laurinburg..but I'm realizing I might have to travel a bit. Charlotte may be a bit far...I've never been there, so it might be a nice trip?

Yikes.

Be careful if “Voda Consulting” is in the House.[emoji23]

Another gun to consider which I have shot, is a Canik. They’re not too expensive. They’re similar in ergonomics to a CZ. Great sights, accurate and affordable.


Instagram: MuzzleblastMD

 

[Millie]

I bought my revolver there actually, and they said the range is behind the school, but I only found the police station! Lol. I went by today but they closed at 2.

I guess you have to belong to the range/club? I mean, you can't just go there and hope they have space for you right?

 

[Millie]

Yikes.

Be careful if “Voda Consulting” is in the House.[emoji23]

Another gun to consider which I have shot, is a Canik. They’re not too expensive. They’re similar in ergonomics to a CZ. Great sights, accurate and affordable.


Instagram: MuzzleblastMD

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