I have fired the Sig226/9 and the HK USPs my biggest problem is the cost locally. The XDM and the Glocks are more in my range and of course there are the manufacturers I have never heard of in the gun shops, but I am very picky when I am going to spend half a months pay on something. I used to carry a SW 40 tac model, but I ended up selling it when times got lean a few years ago and I am ready to get back to carrying. I have already got the permit renewed and now I just need to find a good carry in my price range.
Don't forget to consider a "trade in" HK or Kimber (or ANY quality gun at a reasonable price). I have a USP 45 (with a Hogue Hand-All) and with large hands, the HK is gold to me. However, I don't think the Compact is really Compact, but I know WTSHTF, my HK will fire. My buddy has a Glock 23C and the Glock 23 is what he wishes he would have gotten instead.
Don't forget to consider a .38 either. The 38 has superior stopping power and penetration over even a 45. I'd carry 38 before any 9mm, even a Sig 226 and I like Sig's (my buddy has put 20,000 rounds through his and I love it too). I used to carry a 38 J Frame S&W at the Midwest's largest Bank Vault and when the Company went to Beretta Cougars (.40), after one range day, reverted back to the Wheel Gun. In just 100 rounds I had 2 stove pipes.
Glock 19 is a 9mm and I would NOT recommend that caliber to depend on your life. I used to dog Glocks something fierce, but some of the Glocks are excellent "size wise" in accordance to caliber. Glocks are just as dependable as my HK, as Sig's. It's just that they use a different trigger mechanism. I like my HK because I can SAFELY carry it "cocked and locked". HK uses a modified Browning Safety. Sig's safeties are nice as well. I mention safeties, because I have an 8 year old myself and he still has no clue I own a pistol. He's seen my deer rifle and loves it, but he's never held it, etc.
Which brings me to the last point Gaidin. Don't forget "Storage". I store mine in a Treated "gun sock" (within my bag pocket to boot) and use this exact bag:
http://www.bagmaster.com/cart/products/339/Pro-Shooter%27s%20Bag%20Small.htm. I only have the two in my home and do not have a safe. If I had more, I'd have no qualms on getting one.
Take this thread, talk to your buddies, folks at the range and write some Models down. Go to the range and most will let you run some lead down range, prior to buying. All we can do is suggest as many guns for you to try, but it has to come down to "fit, finish and feel" TO YOU.
Karaya
