Gents,

I'm getting the itch to add something to the collection. I've been saving some lunch money and I'm thinking about an autoloader. I have a Glock 23 in .40 cal and a Colt Gold Cup in .45

I'm looking for something with a decent trigger in .357sig, .380 or .40 to bridge the gap between the smaller striker fired Glock and the full size 1911 single action.

I've fired the Kahr, and I dunno if I can get used to the trigger. I don't know if Taurus has released the OSS yet, but that might be too big. I also was considering a Sig 220 DAK if I can find one pre-owned - maybe to stay within my budget.

As an aside, what are your opinions of buying a used autoloader?

I have medium sized hands that fit a single stack very nicely, and the finger groved polymers even better. I do most of my defensive practice point shooting at 7 yards as rapidly as I can remain on target. I think it was a gent here that had a sig line that read something to the effect of "One hit is better than a whole magazine of loud noise"

I like that philosophy.

Your suggestions are appreciated.

EMC2

Have you looked at a Makarov or Feg? I know that they are Com-block Guns but they function and perform very well. I have a Pa63 Feg I purchased many years ago, it has good accuracy and ammo is very reasonable. 9x18. The Feg can be found for around $200.00 or less. Contoured grips and a PPK design, great for Concealed carry. You may have enough $ left to buy a decent used revolver!
If you do look at used auto's I would suggest breaking it down to see if the frame or slide has been pinged from abuse. Older Taurus 92's had this issue w/ normal use. Good luck, JP

how bout a xd tactical. 5" barrel with poly frame

My tastes are kind of traditional (old fashioned) in that I prefer all steel handguns, rather than plastic. I don't have a CZ 75 yet, but I've been really impressed with the ones I've handled. It sounds like a CZ 75 in either 9mm or 40 S&W would fill the bill for what you're looking for. Check one of those out before you decide.

I too would suggest an XD. 5" tactical .45 gives you some fun options for aftermarket guide rods and springs to help recoil, muzzle flip.

Should be able to find them for $500, maybe less, NIB.

Taurus 1911.

Many improvements already installed. GI compatible. Around 500 - 525.

http://www.taurususa.com/products/gunselector-results.cfm?series=19

EMC2 - For something to fill the "gap" and a little different, look at a 239 Sig Saur in a .357 Sig (loud, fast, and accurate). The Air Marshals use this caliber (in a Sig) and it is a fun cartridge to shoot. The new ones are expensive; however, many dealers sell "factory refurbushed" ones for around $500 plus and if they are "grade I", they are good bargains (all worn parts replaced by the factory). Good luck in your search. Riley

CZ 75 Compact.
.40 S&W. I really like the CZ pistols. Very well made and modestly priced.
http://www.cz-usa.com/product_detail.php?id=63
for a look-see.

I don't know why, but there are few 1911's in .40S&W. But, Taurus has just announced one:
http://www.taurususa.com/products/product-details.cfm?id=62&category=Pistol

This will be my next acquisition…

.

....CZ75.

Jim

Oh ya, you mentioned buying used. You'd be amazed at the number of "used" guns one can find that are so clean, the gunsmith isn't sure if a magazine has been shot through it or not.
If you buy from a dealer, ask about a warranty through the shop. Gander Mountain, for instance, offers an additional year's warranty with a gunsmith clean for only $19.99. Otherwise, all used guns come with a 30 day warranty. These things take the risk out of buying a used gun.

Jim

Great info, gents, thanks. So far the CZ compact has the vote, now I just need to get one in my hands.

I suppose my biggest personal obstacle is the trigger travel and weight on the DA/SA guns. I'm used to the Glock and a match trigger on a 1911. All the rest seem really wierd.

Most of my defensive handgun practice is 7 yards point shooting (front sight only) and the bullseye is Minute of Vitals. As a side note, after a few warm-ups, I'm suprised that I can take the head off a silouette (sp) target easily. Too bad the intruder doesn't give you wanrm-up time ;)

Anyway, I appreciate your input and I'll report back when I have gotten to hold a few.

Thanks again
EMC2

I handled the CZ75 compact this weekend.. I think you will be pleasently suprised once you get a chance to handle one


Good luck