GoBoilers!
Marksman
- Sep 2, 2008
- 211
- 28
Under $200? Now you are talking my language.
When I first started shooting some years ago, I tried a LOT of the cheap - Oops! - I meant to say "budget limited" handguns. Most of them have been mentioned, but I'll go through my list of suggestions too.
I would not hesitate to recommend a Hi Point 9 mm in this instance. It was my first 9mm and I had zero issues with it at the range. It fills the role of home defense just fine, although it is too heavy (IMHO) for cc. And with the price, you still have $$$ left for ammo / practice, which is necessary especially for new shooters. My second recommendation for a pistol in this price range would be a Kel Tec - either PF9 or P11. Used ones should be easy to find around $200 or maybe a bit more. I have never owned or shot one of the 9X18 pistols (cz, tok, etc.) but that could also be a viable alternative. I've heard lots of positive reports and I want to check one out for myself. If they can go up to $250 or so they could probably find a used Ruger P95 (a GREAT option!) or a S&W 9ve.
Rossi and Taurus (and Charter Armes) revolvers can be found in or near this price range too. I'd look around and see what they can find, but make sure to have a competent person with them to make sure it has no issues (timing, cylinder play, etc).
And actually, if it is strictly for home defense, the shotgun route would be a good option too. You ought to be able to find a used Mossburg 500 (or even a new Maverick) with an 18" or 20" barrel that would work in this role.
Good luck sorting all this out.
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GB!
When I first started shooting some years ago, I tried a LOT of the cheap - Oops! - I meant to say "budget limited" handguns. Most of them have been mentioned, but I'll go through my list of suggestions too.
I would not hesitate to recommend a Hi Point 9 mm in this instance. It was my first 9mm and I had zero issues with it at the range. It fills the role of home defense just fine, although it is too heavy (IMHO) for cc. And with the price, you still have $$$ left for ammo / practice, which is necessary especially for new shooters. My second recommendation for a pistol in this price range would be a Kel Tec - either PF9 or P11. Used ones should be easy to find around $200 or maybe a bit more. I have never owned or shot one of the 9X18 pistols (cz, tok, etc.) but that could also be a viable alternative. I've heard lots of positive reports and I want to check one out for myself. If they can go up to $250 or so they could probably find a used Ruger P95 (a GREAT option!) or a S&W 9ve.
Rossi and Taurus (and Charter Armes) revolvers can be found in or near this price range too. I'd look around and see what they can find, but make sure to have a competent person with them to make sure it has no issues (timing, cylinder play, etc).
And actually, if it is strictly for home defense, the shotgun route would be a good option too. You ought to be able to find a used Mossburg 500 (or even a new Maverick) with an 18" or 20" barrel that would work in this role.
Good luck sorting all this out.
---
GB!