So after researching, taking a safety gun class and shooting a couple different guns I decided on the one. A Springfield XD9 sub-compact 9mm semi-automatic.

And the guy at the gun shop who helped me w/ the sell is the instructor. He is an ex-marine with police/investigator experience. He talked w/ me for over an hour. He teaches a one-on-one class for real life scenarios. I'm going to take a class as soon as I can.

I'm so excited. I've been wanting to find a class like this for a long time, even before I was attacked.

Kitty - I know your son is a police officer so you get this kind of training for free!

Here's the gun I got

http://www.springfield-armory.com/xd.php?model=23

So, what were your deciding factors?

Quote:

Originally Posted by AfterMyNap So, what were your deciding factors?

I wanted a compact gun cause I want to get my concealed weapon permit so it was between the Glock 26 and this gun. From what I've read and what the gun shop instructor told me both guns are equally well made and reliable.

So it came down to how the guns felt in my hand. This gun felt better than the Glock.

It was a blast to shoot. No pun intended

The instructor gave me two free passes at the shooting range. I think he wanted to make sure I came back I didn't have my wedding band on b/c it's loose so I don't wear it when I'm going to be using my hands like cleaning, gardening, etc.

Nice gun, how much would you say it weighs? So when you get your concealed weapon permit are you planning on carrying on your body or in your purse/fanny pack?

I have a fanny pack that has a hidden compartment in the back, the only thing I didn't like is that it has a velcro closure which is quite loud...Sue

A quick Safety Tip:
When you are at the range, bring a small sand bag. If your weapon misfires, remove the ammunition clip first, then remove the faulty bullet. Place the bullet under the sandbag until you are ready to leave the range. Call the rangemaster to collect the bullet and he will place it in the appropriate EOD container.


Ammunition and General Tips:
1) If you want stoping power use StarFire ammunition. Do not use it for the range, because it is expensive. Be sure that it is legal in your state first.

2) If you want escape abilities, then use a hollow point. Federal Ammunition sells a good series of 9mm hollow points.

3) Never use "reloads". They are unsafe, regardless of what so-called experts tell you. They can damage you and your weapon.

4) If you are right-handed, then also learn how to shoot with your left hand.

These tips have REALLY helped me out of a few jams (especially #4).

-Vic

Sue - It weighs around 27 ozs with loaded magazine. Has a really good weight and feel. I plan on having several different carrying methods depending on what I'm wearing. I was looking at the fanny packs. I did buy a nice holster to wear on my belt on my right side. I don't want to carry it in my purse. I plan on getting a photographer vest for the summer. Should be easier to conceal during the winter.

Vic - Thanks for the advice. I definitely am going to have to get in some target practice. I testify before the grand jury next month against the guy who assaulted me. I want to get as good as I can between now and then.

I used to carry. I enjoyed it and wish I could now but the old hands aren't to be trusted with a weapon. I had a Sig Sauer 45 and man that is the rolls royce of handguns, pricey but perfect.

My wife made me put it in the safe the second I got home, no kiss until it was locked up as she hates guns.

Enjoy your new sense of security. Don't go shooting anyone just for fun.

Earl, lol!



Cool gun!

I like that better than a glock too (too big for my hands).

I wouldn't mind getting a CCW but I'd need a different gun - mine would not be legal to carry. It's a *baby* Browning. Perfect for my little hands. Nice for having around the house. Very accurate considering how small it is.

Earl that's a nice gun. I've heard many ppl talk about how they really like the 1911.

braingonebad - That gun is small. That's great to have a small gun like that w/o a lot of kick and good accuracy.

I have signed up for a real life scenario class next week. It's a 2 hour one-on-one class. The instructor is an ex-marine. He tailors the class to the individual's need. I'm really looking forward to getting some good training.