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General Forums => The O' Club => Topic started by: JB73 on January 06, 2005, 01:47:47 PM

Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: JB73 on January 06, 2005, 01:47:47 PM
with taxes i'm thinking on buying my first gun.

i love to shoot, will probably spend tons on ammo paper-punching at a local range.

i looked a few years back at a .22 revolver that felt real good in the hand, ammo is cheap and easy.

though it has no practical purpose, and only 6 shots so lots of reloading.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: maico on January 06, 2005, 01:54:49 PM
A 22 cal would be in your price range and since they are not reloadable you dont have to worry about that.
The shells are very cheap .
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: JB73 on January 06, 2005, 02:00:07 PM
ya, the other day someone was talking about some cheap russian gun possibly, reliable, and easy to use.


i also need something easy to take apart for cleaning, i know nothing about ho to do that,
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: eagl on January 06, 2005, 02:02:27 PM
I bought a browning buckmark (.22) when I was active in intercollegiate standard pistol competition, and I like it a lot.  It can be bought in several "trim" editions, can be customized with better sights, triggers, grips, etc., it's more accurate than you'll ever be, and it's cheap fun to shoot.  10 round magazine.

The only drawback is that it has no decocking lever so anytime there is a round in the chamber and the safety is off, it's ready to go single-action.  There is no double-action at all with this gun.  It has a good safety but I don't trust it, so you simply can't walk around with a round in the chamber unless you're looking to shoot yourself in the foot.  I used to take it with me when rabbit hunting and I just left the chamber empty when it was in the holster.  When I wanted to use it, I pulled it out, cycled the slide, and when done firing I dropped the magazine and cleared the weapon prior to putting it back in the hoster.  It's a bit of a pain, but the gun was designed for target shooting, not field work.

For a neat field revolver, my Dad has a S&W K-22.  It is built on the same frame as their .38, but it holds 6 .22 rounds instead of .38.  It's a great field gun because it's extremely simple and reliable.  I'm told it was very popular back when police units carried .38s because it gave them something cheap to shoot that was nearly identical to their service weapon.  I don't know if they're in production or how much they cost, but they're pretty accurate and fun too.

If you want something meaty, I've been extremely pleased with my Beretta .40 stainless.  It weighs about twice what a glock or S&W compact .40 would weigh, but that also means it is very easy on the wrist and easy to keep pointed downrange for multiple shots.  The military standard is the beretta in 9mm and the 9mm ammo is pretty cheap, but the 9mm rounds are pretty weak compared to the .40.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: maico on January 06, 2005, 02:02:29 PM
A revolver is easier to clean than an auot.
Fewer moving parts ect and will cost much less.
Check tarus .
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: octospider0 on January 06, 2005, 02:52:48 PM
Quote
Originally posted by eagl
If you want something meaty, I've been extremely pleased with my Beretta .40 stainless.  It weighs about twice what a glock or S&W compact .40 would weigh, but that also means it is very easy on the wrist and easy to keep pointed downrange for multiple shots.  The military standard is the beretta in 9mm and the 9mm ammo is pretty cheap, but the 9mm rounds are pretty weak compared to the .40.


96fs?  I have the same weapon.  trying to sell it though, I would really like a Sig 40.

Odi
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: JB73 on January 06, 2005, 03:19:38 PM
something like this:

http://www.ruger-firearms.com/Firearms/FAProdView?model=5745&return=Y

would be perfect but WAY outta my price range

$225 is the absolut MAX i could spend sadly.

im thinking there is going to be not much out there
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: Makarov9 on January 06, 2005, 03:21:55 PM
A Makarov is a good pistol for the $200 price range. Reliable and fun to shoot. Ammo is cheap and can be very accurate for a small pistol. They are also very easy to tear down for cleaning.

http://makarov.com/ (http://makarov.com/)
Title: What is your purpose?
Post by: JB28 on January 06, 2005, 03:25:47 PM
73,

Just what exactly do you want a hand gun for?  Protection? Entertainment? (not to be confused with agressive protection,:aok )

What is your experience level?  If this is your first hand gun, I would recommend a revolver.  It is a little harder to shoot yourself with a revolver rather than a semi-automatic.  

If you are looking for a gun for protection, a 22 caliber won't do jack!  I personally have 2 pistols, a S&W 44 detective special and a Ruger P90 45 semi.  Both are wonderful guns for what I use them for (casual target and protection).  I bought both of these guns used and spent less than $250 for each.  Of coarse that was 14 and 8 years ago respectively.  

If you are looking to learn and target shoot, i would recommend that you stay with the smaller calibers (i.e. 22 cal)  Again, revolver is safer that a semi-automatic.  If you choose to go 22 cal, be sure to get one that shoots both long and short rifle bullets.  

Going along with safety is ease of cleaning.  again, revolver is easier. (most people shoot themselves while they are "cleaning" their weapon):eek:

If you were planing on coming out my way, I would let you shoot my pistols.  We possible could work a deal.  I don't think I have fired my revolver for 8 years.  It is intimidating when you see the diameter of a 44 cal barrel.  you only have to be close!:D

<>28
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: JB73 on January 06, 2005, 03:33:29 PM
cc 28, first gun, just for "entertainment"

though i know a gun is not a toy, i just want to plink away at targets. i have done that in the past, and had a blast. fired off 1200 .22 rounds 1 day LOL

i would maybe go shooting 8-10 times a year, and that's about it.

i have no desire to hunt, i live in the quiet suburabs, and there is no need for "protection"

heck in the town i live in there has only been 2 shootings in the history of the town. 1 30 years ago, and another about 15 years ago, ironically on the street i live now LOL.

a .44 is definatly too big, i was very intimidated by the .357 i shot 1 round out of. it hurt my hand (i obviously didn't have a totally firm and proper grip on it).

like i said, this is wishful thinking, since i am extreemly limited in funds, just thinking of a "treat" from my taxes before i pay bills. i dont know what else to spend a bit of money on.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: Tarmac on January 06, 2005, 04:38:07 PM
Quote
Originally posted by JB73
i dont know what else to spend a bit of money on.


You could do something really crazy, like save it.  :p

I think it was Bulgarian Makarovs that lazs was talking about a few months ago.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: JB73 on January 06, 2005, 04:44:51 PM
i think so too...


save??

with my debts saving is not an option. all extra monies go to pay them off, but i want to for once spend a few hundred on me for fun with taxes, instead of the usual large check written to a credit card the day i get the return
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: storch on January 06, 2005, 05:32:35 PM
Taurus model 85 .38 special
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: Drunky on January 06, 2005, 07:07:46 PM
Wait with a pipe in a darkened alley for the local crack dealer.

Bam!!1  Another midget down and you gots a brand new used gun and free money and crack.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: EN4CER on January 06, 2005, 07:18:25 PM
Keltec would be my first choice. My wife has the Keltec P11 (http://www.kel-tec.com/prod01.htm)
Its a sweet compact 9mm. I don't know what they go for now but I purchased hers back in 2002 brand new for $225.
Makarov would be my second choice.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: kevykev56 on January 06, 2005, 07:38:02 PM
These are not bad shooters. I own two and love to shoot them.

Heritage (http://www.heritagemfg.com/traditional.shtml)

RHIN0
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: Octavius on January 06, 2005, 07:44:22 PM
I've always wondered how guns are purchased online.  Is it required that they be completely disassembled before packaging and shipping?  what sorta guidelines are used?  I really want a Makarov... :cool:
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: CAV on January 06, 2005, 07:51:37 PM
Hi

Why a hand gun? If your into WW2 stuff get a russian rifle for $50-$80. I have a few WW2 rifles all are lots of fun!


Russian M1938 Mosin Nagant 7.62x54R (http://198.63.62.70/acatalog/Russian_Model_1938_7_62x54R_Mosin_Nagant_Package.html)

Russian M44 Mosin Nagant 7.62x54R Rifle (http://198.63.62.70/acatalog/copy_of_Yugoslavian_VZ24_47_8mm_Mauser_Package.html)

Yugo M24/47 8mm Mauser Item#Maus24/47 (http://198.63.62.70/acatalog/Yugoslavian_VZ24_47_8mm_Mauser_Package.html)
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: kevykev56 on January 06, 2005, 07:56:33 PM
You must have a FFL (Federal Firearms Liscense) to have a gun shipped to you. Unless it is antique and not classifed as a firearm by the ATF.

If you see one and want to buy one offline you can have a local FFl holder, usually pawn shops or gunstores order it for you. They normally charge $20 or 10% whichever is greater.

I have a Curio and Relic 03 FFL wich allows me to order certain firearms through the mail as long as they are at least 50 years old, or deemed C&R by the ATF. I cannot be in buisness of selling them though.

The only other way I know of to get around the FFL requirement would be to order from the CMP (http://www.odcmp.com/) (Civilan Marksmanship Program). But they do have their own requirements and they only sell US WW2 era guns.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: CAV on January 06, 2005, 07:57:38 PM
Quote
I've always wondered how guns are purchased online.


You must have a Federal Firearms License (FFL) to Purchase Firearms online or.....


Do a Dealer Transfer....

A  takes place when a 01 Federally Licensed Firearms dealer transfers a firearm to a Non-FFL Holder or consumer. If you are a consumer desiring to purchase a firearm online, you must first locate a dealer in your area, who is willing to order/transfer the firearm to you. All fees for the transfer must be negotiated by you with the transferring dealer. You must have the permission from the dealer before placing an order to be shipped to the FFL dealer for transfer of the firearm(s). All firearms ordered for Dealer Transfer must be shipped to the dealer's licensed premise address.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: Octavius on January 06, 2005, 08:04:36 PM
Thanks Kev... clears the confusion.  Read a lil bit more at aimsurplus.com and I have seen the light.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: SunKing on January 06, 2005, 08:11:43 PM
"You'll shoot your eye out!"
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: JB73 on January 06, 2005, 09:04:29 PM
Quote
Originally posted by kevykev56
These are not bad shooters. I own two and love to shoot them.

Heritage (http://www.heritagemfg.com/traditional.shtml)

RHIN0
they look too .... old western LOL but decent priced.

are they single action or double action?


if i was to get one i'd get the short barrel one with the dual cylenders

CAV.. ammo not nearly as cheap as a .22, and i wouldnt be able to shoot those at the local indoor range, only hand guns and .22 rifles allowed.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: Cobra412 on January 06, 2005, 09:47:58 PM
I've got a P97 never fired except for from the factory.  Looking at getting rid of it.  My P95 is all I really need anyway.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: lazs2 on January 07, 2005, 12:17:10 PM
still not enough to go on.

.357 in a heavy frame hardly kicks at all so if it bothered you it was either a very light gun or you are very recoil sensitve (nothing wrong with that).

If you are recoil sensitive even the makarov will feel a bit harsh but... it is a great gun for the price and ammo is like $100 per thousand.... utterly reliable and easy to take care of... If you shot 1200 rounds of 22 you would probly only shoot 100 or 200 mak rounds but have as much fun.

enforcer is correct on the keltecs... hidious guns like glocks and such with no history or pride of ownership but.... bery reliable and functional..  (mm ammo is also in the 80-100 buck a thousand range and recoil in the larger 9mm's is even less than the smaller Mak.

Now.... plinking...  that is what I do allmost excluisively.... semi autos aren't that fun.   range is allmost allways short and accuracy is low except in guns like the Kimber costing a grand or so...The revolver guys will humiliate you in the "first guy to hit that can" thing...

Power...  22's don't allways make the target move... it is more fun to make the can jump 20 feet eh?  but eagle is correct... a K22 masterpiece will hit empty shotgun shells out to 50 yards (try that with your keltec or mak)  the ruger single six is around 200 used sometimes and it is pretty accurate.

A good Smith and Wesson K or l frame or copy or Ruger in .38 will work great... get it in .357 so that you can shoot 38's till you want to step up.

I reload and I plink with everything I own but.... my favorite plinkers are my 44 mags and my 45 kimber and a few 22 pistols

When you hit something with the 44 mag it shows.   they cost me about $4 a box to reload and most people don't want to shoot more than a hundred or so at a standing.   I like to bring the 44's and then when I get flinchy.... switch to the milder Kimber 45 or a 22.

long winded but... it is a complicated subject.  probly you need about 6 handguns.... everyone does... we can swap em around...

funny thing is... you notice that some people just seem better with one type of handgun than others.. even when it seems like it makes no sense...  my daughter is 5' nothing and she shoots a 44 mag revolver better than a 22 auto.

lazs
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: kevykev56 on January 07, 2005, 06:48:48 PM
Quote
Originally posted by JB73
they look too .... old western LOL but decent priced.

are they single action or double action?


if i was to get one i'd get the short barrel one with the dual cylenders

CAV.. ammo not nearly as cheap as a .22, and i wouldnt be able to shoot those at the local indoor range, only hand guns and .22 rifles allowed.



They are single action. The ones I have do have the dual cylinder and are short barrel. I rarely shoot the magnum round because of price. I have an older model that I picked up from a gunshow and a new traditional model with the 4.75 barrel. Yes they look old western but thats the fun with them. Double fisted 12 shots I feel like a kid, plinking from about 20 yards. And for less than $200 you will not find many better deals than these unless you get a used handgun.

Im sure whatever you decide you will enjoy. Get what you can afford, or may I suggest save up and get what you want. :)
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: Russian on January 07, 2005, 07:58:45 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Makarov9
A Makarov is a good pistol for the $200 price range. Reliable and fun to shoot. Ammo is cheap and can be very accurate for a small pistol. They are also very easy to tear down for cleaning.

http://makarov.com/ (http://makarov.com/)


I recommend it also...
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: debuman on January 07, 2005, 07:58:46 PM
You can find a lot of used, trade-in S&W .38's and .357's for around $200 or less.  The .38 special is not anything that's going to bother you with recoil, and is still powerful enough to use for self-defense.
We picked up a used, 4" stainless steel S&W .38 for $169 a few years back.  My wife fell in love with it, and now claims it as "her" gun.  The way she shoots it - you don't want to argue with her!
She is very recoil sensitive, and hates my .357 magnum, but the recoil of the .38's don't bother her a bit.
There are also lesser priced .38's like Rossi and stuff that are less new than a used S&W, but as fara as guns go, I think you get what you pay for.
Revolvers (double action police style - not cowboy type) are also very easy to learn to use, and to check and see if they are loaded or not.  Very easy to load and unload.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: rpm on January 07, 2005, 08:03:25 PM
A GOOD $200 handgun? Best go talk to you friendly neighborhood crack dealer.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: Dago on January 07, 2005, 08:28:08 PM
Quote
Originally posted by eagl
I bought a browning buckmark (.22) when I was active in intercollegiate standard pistol competition, and I like it a lot.  It can be bought in several "trim" editions, can be customized with better sights, triggers, grips, etc., it's more accurate than you'll ever be, and it's cheap fun to shoot.  10 round magazine.
 


Hi ya Eagl,

I have a Browning Buckmark Bullseye.  I am very happy with it.  For more authority in a weapon, I shoot a Colt Combat Commander, 45ACP.

dago
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: lazs2 on January 08, 2005, 10:52:10 AM
rpm... what is wrong with a used 38 k frame smith for under $200 or a surplus makarov in your expert opinion.  

lazs
Title: Re: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: genozaur on January 08, 2005, 10:18:08 PM
Quote
Originally posted by JB73
with taxes i'm thinking on buying my first gun.

i love to shoot, will probably spend tons on ammo paper-punching at a local range.

i looked a few years back at a .22 revolver that felt real good in the hand, ammo is cheap and easy.

though it has no practical purpose, and only 6 shots so lots of reloading.


From my personal experience Makarov 9 mm  can also be an excellent choice for the sharpshooter at small ranges. I was shooting it from the stand-up Russian duelling posture (torso and feet in one line with the line of aiming, left hand on your hip or behind your back).Achieved good results.  That besides meeting the above-mentioned demands. Also easy stripping and cleaning (you have just a handful of parts). Not sure, but the price tag for the original Soviet model Makarov is slightly higher than that of the rest of licenced Makarov family. Still  easily could be within your price range. Just check some price lists.
Title: What's a good starter $200 handgun?
Post by: lazs2 on January 09, 2005, 10:04:04 AM
Just shot the K22 masterpiece yesterday... in the wind and a little rain outdoors...  If I held it right and timed the wind so that it wouldn't move the 1940's spindly barrel around too much.... the rounds allmost touched at 25 yards range.

The factory used to guarentee that a out of the box K22 would shoot 1.5" groups at 50 yards or they would take it back.  

lazs