best 9mm handgun below $1000?

best 9mm handgun below $800

  • BERETTA 92fs

    Votes: 64 11.8%
  • Sig Sauer P226

    Votes: 102 18.9%
  • Glock 17

    Votes: 176 32.5%
  • else

    Votes: 199 36.8%

  • Total voters
    541
  • Poll closed .
"It is a Glock world. It is a 9mm Glock world." - Ken Hackathorn

Ken Hackathorn says: "The 1911 is the finest close-quarters combat weapon in the world, and the King of feedway stoppages." He also says that today, "It is a Glock world. It is a 9mm Glock world."

Larry Vickers says: "...I like to use whatever is the most common pistol in that particular class. Sometimes that is hard to figure out in advance but it most often means I am using a Glock – what I call the universal service pistol. I am a big fan of both the G17 and G19 in 9mm and that is what I use. At times i will use a 1911 if requested to do so or if it is a 1911 operator class...", and "...I feel most people are best served NOT using a 1911 as a primary sidearm. Two criteria come to mind a) A passion for the 1911 platform and b) you are willing to be your own armorer and can fix relatively minor problems or fit certain parts yourself. If you are the kind of guy that doesn’t mind tinkering with your Harley Davidson motorcycle to keep it running then you are a candidate. If however you treat your pistols like we all treat our lawnmowers then don’t get a 1911 – use a Glock."
<http://vickerstactical.com/faqs-with-larry-vickers/>

John Farnam says: "...When you have a pistol with a manual decocking lever, either two-stage or single-stage, you may bring it to our Class, and we'll show you how to use it. However, for most serious shooters, self-decocking, autoloading pistols represent the best choice. Manual decocking levers are virtually obsolete, although they still do have a following, albeit ever-dwindling. Colt/Browning, 1911-style pistols also have a fierce following, but their popularity with new shooters is low. The 1911 is really an expert's gun and, and noted above, a self-decocking autoloader is a much better choice for the vast majority of serious shooters. You may notice that the Continuous Motion System (H&K P7M8) autoloader is not mentioned. These pistols were popular at one time, but are long-since out of production, and incorrect operation of the squeeze-cocker has led to many accidents. In fact, there has been so many accidents with this pistol, that we no longer recommend it for general use, although it may be a good choice for certain individuals..."
<http://www.defense-training.com/courses/whatbring_handgun.html>
 
CZ Shadow

CZ Shadow should be on that list. Many IPSC shooters like it, so it's reliable shooting thousands of rounds per year. I like the CZ safety over the Beretta.
 
CZ 75 sp01 shadow.... It would of probably have been the #1 winner of the poll, if it was on the list.

I have a shadow, and ruger .22lr pistol, instead of a costly conversion. My shadow I bought new, and the ruger was gently used.... Total money invested is around $1000.

Even a regular CZ75b is a great gun, and can be bought for around or less money than a glock. CZ makes the best pistols for under $1000.. They rival Sig's, but almost half the price in most cases.
 
"It is a Glock world. It is a 9mm Glock world."


I'm starting to form the opinion that people buy handguns based on their useage by LEO/military and not by what role they want it to fulfil. At least that's the case for me.

When I first got my licence I wanted a Sig, Beretta, all of those service pistols (well, except the Glock lol! I mean really...). What I've found is that I like accurate guns, things I can shoot well and impress myself with. Glocks were designed to be carried, used after being blown up, and be shot only when you really, really want to shoot. Why whould I want something like that when I:
a) baby my firearms,
b) don't carry,
c) don't care if it's still safe while I'm in the middle of emptying a mag.

Unless I pick up IDPA, I doubt I'll buy another "service" pistol. I'm finding the reason why competitors use Shadows and 1911's and not glocks, M&Ps, Sigs, Berettas, ect. Because I can't carry one every day or compete in IDPA, owning a "service" pistol is almost as much a novelty as the revolver I had.



It's actually kinda funny because when I first got into guns, my buddy was suggesting pistols to look into and I took one look at the SP-01 and wen't "eww" and bought a Norinco of all things! (not that it was a bad decision though). Now I can't wait for my Shadow to get here!
 
The will be a best when every shooter is exactly the same.

Join a range, bring ammo, be friendly, ask nicely and most will let you try their pistol. Buy the one you like best for it's intended purpose.

Better yet get them all, life is too short having just one pistol.
 
I'm new to the site and new to the sport and am in the exact same position as you. Everyone is going to have an opinion on their favorites but its up to you to go out and try different models. I went to a local gun show and handled as many guns as possible and ended up falling in love with the CZ 75 SP01 Shadow. As soon as I held it I knew. That being said, I met a lot of great people associated with IPSC and got invited out to try a few different guns at the range. Basically, you're never going to find the perfect gun for you on a forum, get out there and try them for yourself!
 
Smith & Wesson® Converts Two State Agencies to the M&P Pistol

Massachusetts State Police and Vermont State Police Select Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols
<http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/smith--wesson-converts-two-state-agencies-to-the-mp-pistol-135431068.html>
Smith & Wesson® Converts Two State Agencies to the M&P Pistol

Massachusetts State Police and Vermont State Police Select Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., Dec. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ: SWHC), parent company of Smith & Wesson Corp., a U.S.-based leader in firearm design and manufacturing, today announced that it has received contracts from the Massachusetts State Police and the Vermont State Police for new duty firearms from the M&P Pistol Series. The Massachusetts State Police has selected the M&P45 pistol, while the Vermont State Police has adopted the M&P40 pistol as its new service firearm. Both of the statewide law enforcement agencies have initiated the transition process and Troopers are currently using the M&P pistol in the field.

Massachusetts State Police

As the nation's oldest statewide police agency, the Massachusetts State Police has a rich history of service to its citizens and support of national events. Employing over 2,300 Troopers and 400 civilian support staff, the agency is responsible for criminal law enforcement and traffic vehicle regulations across the state. To better assist its Troopers with these responsibilities, the Massachusetts State Police has ordered 2,500 M&P pistols chambered in .45ACP.

During the agency's independent testing and evaluation process, the M&P45 was judged against the department's previously standard sidearm, as well as numerous other competitive products. At the conclusion of the trial, the M&P45 was selected due to its ergonomic design, accuracy, reliability, and the pistol's ability to be customized to meet individual preferences. Smith & Wesson will support the firearm contract with a full range of services including armorer's training. In addition to the M&P45 pistols, the Massachusetts State Police previously adopted the M&P15 tactical rifle from Smith & Wesson that currently serves as the State issued patrol rifle.

"We are extremely pleased with the decision by the Massachusetts State Police and the Vermont State Police to transition to the M&P pistol," said Mario Pasantes, Smith & Wesson's Senior Vice President of Marketing and Global Professional Sales. "We take pride in supplying law enforcement professionals with highly advanced, duty proven equipment, and we believe the M&P Series lives up to that standard. Selected for numerous awards and trusted by both officers and civilians, the popularity of the M&P pistol has been enduring. Today, over 800 law enforcement agencies have adopted or approved for duty use our M&P products. Our commitment to those who have put their trust in Smith & Wesson is steadfast."

Pasantes added, "We are especially honored to serve the Massachusetts State Police, our home state force. Our employees take great pride in aligning with local law enforcement, and we look forward to expanding our relationship with the Massachusetts State Police and to seeing the M&P45 on the hips of our State Troopers."

Vermont State Police

Through its contract with Smith & Wesson, the Vermont State Police has ordered 390 M&P40 pistols. During its open evaluation process, the M&P40 pistol received high marks by the Vermont troopers for its low perceived recoil, reliability during testing, and consistent performance. The new side arms are being supported with a full range of services from Smith & Wesson, including armorer's training and advanced firearms training courses.

About Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm design and manufacturing. The company delivers a broad portfolio of firearms and related training to the global military, law enforcement, Federal and sports markets. Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation companies include Smith & Wesson Corp., the globally recognized designer and manufacturer of quality firearms, and Thompson/Center Arms Company, Inc., a premier designer and manufacturer of premium hunting firearms. Smith & Wesson facilities are located in Massachusetts and Maine. For more information on Smith & Wesson and its companies, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com.


Industry Contact: Matt Rice
Blue Heron Communications
(800) 654-3766
matt@blueheroncomm.com

Liz Sharp, VP Investor Relations
Smith & Wesson Holding Corp.
(413) 747-3304
lsharp@smith-wesson.com

SOURCE Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation

<http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/smith--wesson-converts-two-state-agencies-to-the-mp-pistol-135431068.html>
 
I like the Shadow over any other non-1911 9mm that I've looked at. It fits my hand like a glove, points very well, and the front sight is nice. I just like the feel and the weight of the Shadow vs. a Glock or even the M&P. I've owned a G17 in the past and they're just too light for me. When I pick up a pistol I want some weight in my hand. If you have to carry one on a daily basis that's a different story.
 
Belgian police order S&W pistols

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., Nov. 29 (UPI) -- The Belgium federal police will soon be carrying 9mm pistols from Massachusetts gun maker Smith and Wesson.
<http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/11/29/Belgian-police-order-SW-pistols/UPI-64861322564541/#ixzz1mVdqMZ7v>
Belgian police order S&W pistols

Published: Nov. 29, 2011 at 6:02 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., Nov. 29 (UPI) -- The Belgium federal police will soon be carrying 9mm pistols from Massachusetts gun maker Smith and Wesson.

Smith and Wesson Holding Corp., parent company of Smith and Wesson Corp., said the Belgium federal police ordered 20,000 of its Military and Police 9mm polymer pistols.

The police agency has received an initial shipment of 2,500 pistols.

Smith and Wesson said the pistol was selected for its performance, reliability, interchangeable grips sizes and low perceived recoil.

Features of the pistol include luminescent sights, a manual thumb safety with on/off red dot indicator and a raised loaded chamber indicator on top of the slide that can be felt by hand.

In addition to duty pistols, the Belgium federal police placed orders for non-lethal simunition training rounds and dedicated training firearms based on the M&P platform.

"We are pleased to support the long-term needs of the Belgium federal police with our M&P pistols, which have become a sidearm of choice for law enforcement agencies in both the United States and around the globe," said Mario Pasantes, Smith and Wesson's senior vice president of Marketing and Global Professional Sales.

"Our M&P line includes a full range of calibers and is designed to meet the exacting standards and tough test criteria used by professionals, such as the Belgium federal police."


© 2011 United Press International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Any reproduction, republication, redistribution and/or modification of any UPI content is expressly prohibited without UPI's prior written consent.
<http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/11/29/Belgian-police-order-SW-pistols/UPI-64861322564541/#ixzz1mVeVDewF>

Texas police order S&W weapons
<http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/10/20/Texas-police-order-SW-weapons/UPI-36971319132076/?rel=64861322564541>
Texas police order S&W weapons

Published: Oct. 20, 2011 at 1:34 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., Oct. 20 (UPI) -- Smith and Wesson Holding Corp. has received firearm orders from two Texas police departments that are equipping officers with S&W weapons.

The first is the Austin Police Department, which for the first time is standardizing its weaponry.

The department has ordered 1,775 M&P 40 polymer pistols, which feature three interchangeable grips sizes, ambidextrous controls and the ability to disassemble the firearm without pulling the trigger.

In addition, the M&P 40 pistols have been equipped with night sights and three magazines as requested by the department.

"This decision by the Austin Police Department marks the first time in 20 years that the agency has chosen to issue a standard firearm to its officers," said Mario Pasantes, senior vice president of Marketing and Global Professional Sales.

"Prior to this, officers within the department were able to select from an approved-for-carry list of firearms that included a variety of choices from multiple manufacturers.

"We view the department's selection of our M&P40 as an endorsement of the winning attributes of the pistol. The Austin Police Department now joins hundreds of other agencies that have selected the M&P for use in the line of duty."

S&W said the San Antonio Police Officers Association has ordered 550 Smith and Wesson M&P15A patrol rifles for individual officer purchase.

The Smith and Wesson M&P15A has been custom-ordered by the private organization and the rifles are approved for on-duty use. The San Antonio Police Officers Association selected the design specifications of the new patrol rifle and allowed officers the ability to customize individual firearms by working with Smith and Wesson's specialized services and capabilities.


© 2011 United Press International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Any reproduction, republication, redistribution and/or modification of any UPI content is expressly prohibited without UPI's prior written consent.
<http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/10/20/Texas-police-order-SW-weapons/UPI-36971319132076/#ixzz1mVfCMeKv>
 
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