[scott_gen]

Looking to purchase my first handgun at the age of 40. Mainly for range use but possibly a home defense firearm as well.

If you were only allowed ONE handgun in your collection, what would it be and why?
Out of the 3 people I've asked in person, their answer has been a 1911 - 45ACP

(hopefully I've picked the correct section to post this, if not, much apogies)

[bub72ck]

I love the 1911 and it's my favorite pistol type. But, if I could only have one gun in my collection and it would be used for home defense I would go with something with a larger round capacity. The Springfield XD .45 with high capacity magazine or a Glock 21 comes to mind. Both offer double digit capacity, an accessory rail for adding a light and/or laser, both have plenty of aftermarket parts, and both are readily available for purchase.

I am a Springfield guy and would lean toward the XD but there are plenty of Glock guys out there as well. My first purchase was a Sprinfield XD 9MM and I can tell you that handguns are addictive. Like Lays potato chips "you can't have just one". I will be picking up a 1911 in the next few weeks.

Good luck and let us know what you purchase.

[Olympus]

If I were only allowed one gun, I think I'd pick my S&W 627PC. It's a beefy frame not likely to ever wear out in several lifetimes. 5" barrel is a great compromise from a general purpose 4" and a muzzle-heavy 6". It holds 8 rounds instead of six, which lets it compete with 1911s in terms of capacity. You get a bigger variety of ammo from meek .38 Special range loads to fire-breathing full house .357 Mag. Don't get me wrong, I love my 1911s. But if you limit me to one gun, the 627PC is WAY more versatile.

[scott_gen]

I JUST took my blue card test Wednesday. As soon as I get it in the mail, I will have the green flag to purchase a handgun here in RI. Thanks for the input.

[scott_gen]

*also - I've only fired a handfull of calibers so far -> 38 special, 357 and 45ACP

[DustyDawg48]

I think bub72ck 's opinion is pretty close to mine. The 'Only One Gun' scenario would put me in a full-size auto, no doubt about it. I'm very partial to the Smith & Wesson M&P line of autos as well as Glocks but the Springfield XDm line and Ruger's SR line of autos are incredibly good guns as well. Budget plays a part in those where the Ruger is the least expensive and you work your way through the M&P to the Glock and finally the Springfield and that gives you a price range of around $400-$700-ish depending on model and other possible options. I'd go with something in either 9mm or .45 since .380 is expensive and .40 isn't always pleasant to shoot for some people.

[Bear304inc]

Not a lot of owner/fans here but my choice is going to be the reliable, sturdy, always ready, H&K USP .40 cal. Its got everything I want, need in a handheld weapon

[NvRbanArms]

I always wanted a usp 45 but never had the money for one. I just like the fact that they are HK.

[Bear304inc]

Originally Posted by NvRbanArms

I always wanted a usp 45 but never had the money for one. I just like the fact that they are HK.

I can understand not being able to spend the money on one, I can't afford one either, a good buddy who is a team guy here on the east coast gifted me this one. After having it a while I'll never buy anything else,, maybe a sig p226.

[Bear304inc]

Momma always said,, kill them with kindness. Well meet my USP. 40 affectionately named "Kindness".